Ear Surgery

Vancouver, BC – Ear Surgery – Dr. Eric Pugash Aesthetic & Plastic Surgery

Otoplasty is an aesthetic surgery procedure that alters the appearance of the ears. Otoplasty may be a good procedure for children and adults who are concerned about how their ears look.

Our ears can attract a lot of attention, and prominent ears may attract more attention than we want. If you are unsatisfied with ears that stick out or the general appearance of your ears, visit Dr. Eric Pugash in Vancouver, BC for excellent otoplasty advice and services.

What Causes Ears to Stick Out?

Prominent ears affect around 5% of the population. They can be a genetic trait, but can also occur randomly.

The average angle of the outer ear to the side of the head is 20 to 35 degrees. When this angle exceeds 35 degrees, the ears may be said to ‘stick out.’ This is usually due to the ear cartilage not folding completely, rather than the ear itself being too large. Injuries may also cause the ears to become prominent.

What is Otoplasty?

Otoplasty is a surgical operation to restore or enhance the appearance of an ear or ears.

During an otoplasty, Dr. Pugash sets protruding ears closer to the head. This is achieved by reshaping the ear cartilage to reduce the protrusion.

The surgery is usually carried out through an incision on the back of the ear where the scar is very unlikely to be seen. There are various methods to reshape and fold the cartilage to improve the ear shape and reduce protrusion.

If you have specific questions about how otoplasty can help you or a loved one, don’t hesitate to call Dr. Pugash on 604-522-5199 for quick answers to any of your queries.

Who is an Ideal Otoplasty Candidate?

Our ears are generally formed by the age of nine, and by this time they are about 90% of their adult size.

Because of this, Dr. Pugash recommends that children should at least be nine years old before getting otoplasty. Nine or ten is also a good age when children can properly consider whether they want to have their ears changed. Note that in most Canadian provinces the provincial medical plan covers otoplasty in children and young teens. The procedure becomes cosmetic (i.e., private pay) after an age cutoff, which can vary by province. Dr. Pugash does not work under the provincial medical plan and is unable to accept young patients. He is happy to see adults in whom otoplasty is considered cosmetic.

Why get an Otoplasty?

Otoplasty may be an appropriate choice for those who find that the appearance of their ears negatively affects their self-image and confidence.

If you are experiencing any of the above concerns, an otoplasty by Dr. Pugash in Vancouver can be a crucial step towards feeling confident and content.

Dr. Pugash headshot

Meet Dr. Pugash

Ready to turn back the hands of time, enhance body contours or conceal aesthetic imperfections? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Eric Pugash today to learn more about how Dr. Pugash can help you achieve your aesthetic goals.

Dr. Pugash has built a busy cosmetic surgery practice that thrives on the referrals of satisfied patients. He and his staff take pride in their friendly office atmosphere, thorough patient education, and meticulous care both before and after surgery.

What Happens During Otoplasty Surgery?

During your consultation with Dr. Pugash you will discuss the desired outcomes of the surgery, the nature of the surgery itself, and the risks and complications of the procedure. You will receive suggestions for your recovery. Dr. Pugash’s staff will help set a date for the operation. In the days leading up to the surgery plenty of rest, nutrition and hydration will put your body and mind in a good state for the procedure. During the surgery, adults generally receive local anesthesia with anesthesiologist-administered sedation; children require general anesthesia. Dr. Pugash makes a short incision behind the ear, through which he modifies the cartilage and shape of the ear. The whole surgery lasts from one to two hours, and patients return home the same day.

What will Recovery for Otoplasty Involve?

Patients wear a full head dressing for about a week after the surgery. The dressing holds the ears in place and allows them to heal in their new position. During this time, patients cannot get their head wet.
The bandages are removed after a week and replaced with a supportive headband that is worn at night.
The short scar on the back of the ear fades significantly with time and is rarely a cause for complaint.
Dr. Pugash recommends a slow first week at home following the procedure, but patients can return to work or school and resume exercise and activities within two weeks.
Ideally, swimming should be avoided for two months after the surgery, and contact sports such as rugby, martial arts, football or hockey should all be avoided for three months.

Is an Otoplasty Worth it?

You’ve had your surgery, and now it’s time to take care of yourself. Otoplasty is a procedure with high success and patient satisfaction rates. Numerous studies have concluded that children and adults who choose to get otoplasty to modify the aesthetics of their ears feel an improvement in their quality of life.

If you would like to book a consultation or learn more about how otoplasty can help you in Vancouver, BC, call Dr. Pugash today on 604.522.5199 or fill out his online form.