Otoplasty

San Francisco Ear Surgeon – Kenneth Bermudez, MD

Large or protruding ears can be a source of embarrassment and low self-esteem. As one of the more experienced cosmetic surgeons in San Francisco, Dr. Kenneth Bermudez is committed to helping his patients improve the appearance of their ears and enhance their self-confidence. Dr. Bermudez invites you to explore the paragraphs below to learn more about otoplasty in SF.

• Ear Surgery

• Ear Surgery Procedure

• Ear Surgery Recovery

• Ear Surgery Risks

• Ear Surgery Benefits

Ear Surgery

Ear surgery, medically referred to as otoplasty, can correct a variety of ear imperfections, including ears that protrude, are oversized, or have been damaged from injury or genetic predisposition. Otoplasty is typically performed on children, but can benefit adults as well. Dr. Bermudez performs ear surgery in San Francisco for both children and adults. By carefully reshaping the ears and adjusting their size and position, he can create a beautiful, harmonious head profile.

Ear Surgery Procedure

Depending on the patient’s age, the ear surgery procedure may be performed as either an outpatient or inpatient treatment using either general or local anesthesia. The operation takes between one and two hours to complete. The procedure begins with Dr. Kenneth Bermudez removing excess cartilage through a small incision made directly behind the ear. The remaining cartilage is then reshaped and pinned into place. Over time, the ear will retain its new shape and be more proportionate to the face and head.

Ear Surgery Recovery

After ear surgery, the patient’s head is wrapped in a thick bandage to maintain the new position of the ears and facilitate healing. The bandage is worn for a few days, after which time patients return to Dr. Bermudez’s office to receive a new, lighter bandage. Patients should refrain from strenuous physical activity for at least seven days. In addition, you should make arrangements regarding work and family since you will require several days off to recuperate. Although the recovery period varies, most of Dr. Bermudez’s ear surgery patients are able to resume their activities within 10 days of their procedure. Special care must be taken with young children who are often unaware of the wounds and could easily get injured.

Ear Surgery Risks

Although extremely rare, certain complications are possible with any surgical procedure, including otoplasty. Most complications associated with ear surgery can be treated with antibiotics or surgical drainage. Such complications include:

• A blood clot on the ear

• Infection in the cartilage area

• Headaches

• Scar tissue formation

• Visible scarring on the back of the ear

To minimize the possibility of complications, Dr. Bermudez will provide you with detailed instructions about how to prepare for your otoplasty procedure and how to take care of yourself after the procedure. Some of the precautions he recommends include quitting smoking several months in advance of your procedure and discontinuing the use of certain medications such as aspirin.

Ear Surgery Benefits

Ear surgery is one of the most popular procedures among children and young adults. It can correct a range of aesthetic concerns and allow patients to lead a more self-confident social life. Among its many benefits, ear surgery can:

• Correct protruding ears

• Correct cupped or shelled ears

• Restore normal appearance to malformed ears

• Restore normal appearance in patients who are missing part of an ear

• Restore self-esteem and confidence

• Improve social life

To begin your journey toward an improved ear appearance and increased psychological well-being, contact the offices of Dr. Kenneth Bermudez today. In addition to answering your questions about otoplasty, Dr. Bermudez can also help you understand whether you might be rhinoplasty, neck lift or facelift San Francisco candidate. Other procedures you may wish to consider as part of your facial beautification plan include facial implants and lip augmentation.

Brow lift surgery is a relatively complication-free procedure when performed by an experienced plastic surgeon. Although extremely rare, the following complication risks have been observed:

• Temporary lack of sensation

• Scar formation

• Permanent hair loss around the treatment area

• Excessive bleeding

• Infection

According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, brow lift complications occur in less than 1 percent of patients. Dr. Bermudez will cover all of the risks associated with brow lift surgery in great detail during your consultation appointment.