Ears that are unusually large or oddly shaped can be very uncomfortable for people of any age, from childhood on. Sometimes ears may protrude from the head in a way that draws the attention of people who may not be very polite about it. With children, it can be even worse and result in pointing, teasing, and name-calling. It is a very unpleasant situation no matter who is suffering from it, and you may feel that it is time to make a change. Fortunately, there is a surgical procedure developed to alleviate this problem and make it easier for you or your child to fit in and feel comfortable with your own ears. It is called an otoplasty, and it can successfully reduce protrusion and ear size to more average standards. Dr. Lupo at Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery of Acadiana at Lafayette General are fellowship-trained and highly skilled in otoplasty procedures. With their help, adults and children alike can have the chance to feel more comfortable about their own appearance, and avoid cruel teasing or attention.
If you or your child is discouraged because of ear size, shape, or protrusion, this can cause psychological and emotional problems. This unhappiness with your own appearance is the first thing that makes you a candidate for otoplasty with Dr. Lupo. Some of the ear characteristics that can be altered are:
- Size
- Shape
Protrusion (sticking out)- Deformities
- Disproportion
There are some important considerations to be made about age and health before this ear surgery can be performed. One of the first is that if the surgery is for a child, it is recommended to be deferred until at least 6 years of age or older. By this age, the cartilage in his or her ears will be stable enough for corrective surgery. The doctor can discuss this with you to be sure that your child has reached an age safe for the procedure.
It is also important that the individual receiving surgery be healthy, with no chronic ear problems. They should also be old enough to cooperate and follow instructions for the healing process. If you are an adult seeking this surgery, you should also be a non-smoker, as this can slow the healing process. When you decide that you are a candidate for surgery, or would like to discuss your candidacy with a professional, you can set up a consultation in Lafayette, Louisiana with Dr. Lupo.
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The surgeons at Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery of Acadiana at Lafayette General have helped many Southern Louisiana people of all ages improve their appearance with plastic surgery. They provide a safe and supportive atmosphere so that patients feel comfortable speaking openly about their concerns and goals. To learn more about Ear Surgery (Otoplasty), you can request your appointment online and learn how you can receive a private consultation with one of our surgeons.
