My daughter has ears that stick out too far

Question:

My daughter has ears that stick out too far. My husband and I have discussed otoplasty but I am afraid that going through the surgery and having pain will traumatize her. In your practice, have you found that young children can get through the surgery unscathed? My daughter is 9 years old.

Answer:

A 9 year old female with prominent ears is an ideal candidate for otoplasty. It is likely that your 9 year old suffers from some social discrimination as a result of her prominent ears and otoplasty will relieve her of this. Children also do much better than adults when it comes to surgery when the child is prepared appropriately. They will be much less stressed out and more excited about their otoplasty than you think. but, some good parenting will be required.

Posted by Dr. Philip Schoenfeld