Manhattan Otoplasty

The following two Manhattan Otoplasty cases represent young boys who had correction of their protruding ears with otoplasty surgery.

In Manhattan Otoplasty or ear pinning refers to surgical treatment of protruding ears also cruelly referred as "Dumbo" or "Mickey Mouse" ears. Protruding ears are a congenital variation of the shape of the ear cartilage. Absence of normal curvature in the peripheral aspect of the auricle causes this visible abnormality. In children and even in adults, the abnormality in the shape of the ears can lead to self-consiceness and social isolation. The absent curve in the auricle can be repaired with a relatively simple surgery.

In otoplasty surgery, the auricle is approached via an incision in the back of the ear. Stitches are then placed to cause the cartilage to bend, and the incision is closed. In individuals with one protruding ear, the sutures are adjusted so that the auricle matches the normal side. In bilateral protruding ears, the sutures are adjusted until the ears are symmetric and naturally curved. In some variations of the surgery, the ear cartilage can be shaved to set the lower part of the ear back, closer to the scalp.

Dr. Khosh recommends against operating in children who are younger than five, as the ear cartilage shows significant growth up to that age. Surgical results are more reliable when the ear is more fully grown.

For more information on how otoplasty can enhance your appearance, click here to email Dr. Khosh.