Ear Surgery (otoplasty)

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 scaring. Blood clot that may need to be drained.