Cosmetic Ear Surgery
Cosmetic Ear Surgery
Cosmetic Ear Conditions
In addition to being the instruments through which we hear and process sounds, the external structures of the ears also contribute to the symmetry, balance and aesthetic proportions of the face as a whole. The anatomy of the external portion of the ear consists of the auricle (pinna) and the external acoustic meatus. The auricle projects from the side of the head and collects the vibrations of the air by which sound is produced, while the external acoustic meatus leads inward from the bottom of the auricle and channels the vibrations to the tympanic cavity. The ears are made up of delicate tissue and cartilage that is highly vulnerable to injury or trauma. Cosmetic ear surgery is performed to address and correct congenital or injury-related deformities of the ear, which can be the root of social anxiety and low self-esteem in both children and adults.
Structural malformations of the ear that can be rectified with cosmetic ear surgery include:
- Microtia: congenital deformity involving the underdevelopment of the external portion of the ear (also referred to as the pinna or auricle)
- Macrotia: overly large ears
- Anotia: a rare, congenital deformity wherein the entire outer projected portion of the ear (pinna/auricle) is totally absent
- Torn or ripped earlobe after injury or trauma
- "Lop-ear deformity": congenital defect wherein the fold of ear cartilage responsible for giving shape to the upper portion of the ear does not properly form, causing the ear to protrude or "flop" downward
Thoughtful ear refinement through surgical expertise
Surgical procedures to improve the aesthetic appearance of the ears should be performed by an experienced facial plastic surgeon who possesses the high degree of clinical skill necessary to target and resolve conditions. Dr. Trang Vo-Nguyen (Dr. V). is double board-certified facial plastic surgeon who is experienced with cosmetic ear procedures. Click on the links below to learn more about each surgery.
