Earlobe Correction
Procedure:
Sets prominent ears back closer to the head and/or reduces the size of large ears. This procedure is most often performed on children between the ages of four and fourteen and may be covered by insurance.
Length:
Approximately two hours.
Anesthesia: Young children: usually general anesthesia is given. For older children or adults: a general or local anesthesia is used with sedation.
Inpatient/Outpatient:
Usually this is an outpatient procedure.
Possible Side Effects:
Temporary throbbing, aching, swelling, redness and/or numbness.
Risks:
Infection of cartilage, excessive scarring, blood clots that may need to be drained, mismatched or artificial-looking ears, or the recurrence of the protrusion which requires repeat surgery.
Recovery:
The patient may return to school or work within five to seven days, and resume strenuous activity, such as contact sports in one to two months.
Results:
Usually permanent.