Benefits of Ear Plastic Surgery
The goal is simple: to make one's ears lay flat against the scalp like everybody else's. Having a protruding ear does not affect one's ability to hear, but it can make a huge impact on self-confidence. The old saying that kids can be cruel certainly applies when peers make fun of children who have protruding ears. Because the procedure is safe and predictable, the benefits of surgery usually outweigh the risks.
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| When ears appear to be in balance with the rest of the head, they don't attract attention. | |
If there is abnormal smallness of the external ear (microtia) or a congenital absence of the ear (anotia), the treatment options are much more complex. Here, the goal is to create an ear that looks natural, so that the child will fit into society. Reconstructed ears will never look exactly like natural ones, but they can be reconstructed well enough to allow a child to go into public without drawing attention and ridicule.
Patient Story
Names: Keola
Procedures: Otoplasty/Ear Surgery
Occupation: Student
The art of plastic surgery is so amazing not only because of the complexities and details it is composed of, but more so because of the physical and emotional changes it brings. I would like to begin by thanking a master of this art; Dr Cruise. It is because of him that I can hold my head up, smile, and not have to worry about protruding ears.
I am 17 years old, and for all my life I had lived with protruding ears. When I was younger I experienced lots of teasing in school but at the time I was able to laugh it off; children generally aren’t concerned too much with their appearance. As I got older however, my ears became noticeable to me, not because they stuck out more, but because my concerns changed, and my image became more important to me.
I felt that my protruding ears were my only problem appearance-wise. I would constantly think of my ears and would wish to have them changed. It was disheartening when I looked into the mirror, and my attention instantly went to my ears. People who are comfortable with their appearance may read this and be surprised, but those that have features that concern them will understand the feeling. It is a terrible feeling that gets in the way of complete self-confidence. For this reason, it is comforting to have someone who understands this unique type of dissatisfaction, and I found that comfort in Dr. Cruise. He and his staff understand what it means to their patients to have this burden lifted.
I went to consultations with two other doctors, but neither compared to my consultation at Dr. Cruise’s. My opinions were welcomed, and I got a sense that everyone at Cruise Plastic Surgery cared for what my goals were, and how to obtain them. I felt comfortable talking to Dr. Cruise and I was provided with excellent information about the procedure I desired. These reasons convinced me that surgery at Cruise Plastic Surgery was the way to go.
The days leading up to the surgery date were very exciting for me. I was so ready to get my problem fixed that I wasn’t fretful at all. Plus, I knew that I could trust this outstanding surgeon who knew his profession well. When the day arrived, I got an indescribable feeling. It was an urge to get the procedure and just forget about all the hurt I experience due to teasing and a lack of self esteem. It was an urge far stronger than what I felt when I first contemplated a surgery. In an hour or so, it was over. I decided to take a look at my ears right away. They were bruised, swollen, and yet so beautiful! I will never forget how I felt when I gazed into the mirror for a moment and saw the new me.
As I recover, my happiness is renewed each time I look at myself. It is a great feeling to have normal-looking ears, and I know I will not have to endure a lack of self esteem and ridicule for the rest of my life. Every time I look into the mirror, I see the signature work of a recognized surgeon. I appreciate the results more and more each day that passes. I can see them adjusting into place, and I am so impressed with the result Dr. Cruise delivered.
The frustration my ears brought me cannot be erased, but now that I have received this operation, I have the peace of mind that I won’t have to look down when walking in my school’s halls or turn away when approaching someone. There is certainly a physical change, but for me, the most important change was the emotional boost a procedure like an otoplasty can offer. My goal was to look normal, and with the help of a practiced doctor and an affectionate staff, that goal was reached. I have absolutely no regrets about my decision to get an otoplasty and I am exceedingly thankful to the wonderful folks at Cruise Plastic Surgery who made my life more pleasant.
Keola Lorenzo, 17