Procedure: Set prominent
ears back closer to the head, or reduce the size of large ears.
Most often done on children between the ages of 4 and 14 years.
(Occasionally covered by insurance.) Length: 2 to
3 hours. Anesthesia: Young children: usually
general. Older children or adults: general or local, with
sedation. In/Outpatient: Usually
outpatient. Side Effects: Temporary throbbing,
aching, swelling, redness, numbness. Risks:
Infection of cartilage. Excessive scarring. Blood clot that may
need to be drained. Mismatched or artificial-looking ears.
Recurrence of the protrusion, requiring repeat
surgery. Recovery: Back to work or school: 5 to 7
days. Strenuous activity, contact sports: 1 to 2
months. Duration of Results: Usually
permanent.
