Ear Reshaping Surgery (Otoplasty) in Morgantown, WV | McClellan Plastic Surgery

Understanding Otoplasty: Comprehensive Ear Reshaping Procedure

Otoplasty is a specialized cosmetic surgical procedure designed to modify the appearance of ears. As an elective procedure, it offers patients three primary transformation options:

• Bringing ears closer to the head (ear pinning)
• Decreasing the overall size of the ears
• Reshaping ear structure and contour

Reasons for Choosing Otoplasty

Many patients seek otoplasty to address ear-related aesthetic concerns. Children are particularly vulnerable to psychological impacts from ear appearance, making early intervention beneficial. The procedure offers significant advantages when performed during childhood, as ear cartilage remains more pliable and responsive to surgical modification.

Ideal Candidates for Ear Reshaping Surgery

McClellan Plastic Surgery maintains specific criteria for otoplasty candidates:

• Non-smokers only to ensure optimal wound healing
• Minimum patient age of 14 years
• Psychological readiness for aesthetic transformation

Surgical Procedure Details

Otoplasty is performed as an outpatient procedure at Monongalia General Hospital under general anesthesia. The surgical approach involves a discreet incision behind the ear, within the natural fold where the ear meets the head. Surgeons carefully remove or reshape skin and cartilage to achieve the desired aesthetic outcome.

Procedure Specifics

• Duration: 1 to 3 hours
• Anesthesia: General
• Location: Outpatient surgical facility
• Potential cartilage stabilization with permanent positioning pin

Potential Surgical Risks

While otoplasty is considered a low-risk procedure, patients should be aware of potential complications:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Scarring
• Temporary or permanent numbness

Regional Surgical Expertise

McClellan Plastic Surgery serves patients throughout West Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania, including regions such as Beckley, Clarksburg, Charleston, Huntington, Parkersburg, Deep Creek, Oakland, Uniontown, and Waynesburg.

Recovery and Post-Operative Care

Post-surgical management includes a follow-up appointment the day after surgery, removal of soft dressings, and application of a protective headband worn for approximately two weeks. Patients can typically return to normal activities with careful ear protection.

For more information about Otoplasty in Morgantown, WV, submit an enquiry to McClellan Plastic Surgery.