Ear Surgery in Chicago

Traditional methods of ear reshaping surgery involve the standard technique of making an incision on the back (and sometimes the front) of the ear to perform the necessary reshaping. Most ear reshaping surgery is performed using this method. However, certain patients may be candidates for “incisionless” surgery, where no incision is made on the back of the ear. When patients are selected appropriately, the results can be equal to results using the “open” technique where an incision is made. The underlying shape of the deformity is pivotal in determining whether or not you are a candidate for incisionless surgery. Feel free to ask us about incisionless techniques; we can tell you if you are an appropriate candidate.

Being awake or asleep during surgery depends on your preference and your surgeon’s preference. Some patients want to be under “twilight” because they feel it’s safer than general anesthesia, and other patients prefer general anesthesia because they “want to be out” and not know what’s going on. It is crucial to remember that general anesthesia is very safe for those patients who are generally healthy. Additionally, some surgeons have a firm preference and will only perform your ear reshaping surgery one way or the other. Regardless, both types of anesthesia are acceptable, and you must develop a plan with your surgeon before surgery.

There are certain limitations to these procedures. It is common for some degree of asymmetry between the two ears to exist, even after surgery, because ears are generally different to begin with. Additionally, the stiffness of your ear cartilage may impact your overall result. Stiff cartilage may hinder getting the amount of “ear setback” that you desire or may cause warping after surgery. The goal of ear reshaping surgery is to make the ears less noticeable. As long as you understand this goal, you are ready to proceed.

Traditional otoplasty is primarily cosmetic and does not improve hearing. However, reconstructive ear surgery can benefit hearing by addressing structural abnormalities of the outer ear or ear canal that affect sound conduction to the middle ear.

Yes, ear surgery can correct deformities and damage caused by piercings or trauma. This includes torn earlobes or elongated piercing holes. The procedure typically involves reshaping the ear tissue and suturing to achieve a natural appearance.

Thick ear cartilage requires more precise surgical techniques to reshape the ear effectively. Surgeons might need to remove a larger amount of cartilage or use stronger sutures to ensure the ear maintains its new shape, as thicker cartilage can be more resistant to change.