Ear Surgery

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. Ear Surgery (Otoplasty) (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: five to seven days. Strenuous activity, contact sports: one to two months.
Duration of Results:	Usually permanent.