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The Skinny
Average Recovery
1 weeks
Permanence
Permanent
Application
Surgical Procedure
Surgical
Yes
Cost
$1000 - $2000
The Specifics
What is an earFold™?
An earFold™ is an ear surgery to reduce the protrusion of the ears through the use of a small implant in both children and adults. In contrast, a traditional otoplasty is more invasive in that it surgically removes skin and ear cartilage. This creates longer recovery times, but also allows for reductions in size. An earFold™ uses one small incision to implant a small device in a predetermined fold that bends the ear into the desired position.The Anatomy of the Ear
What cosmetic concerns does an earFold™ procedure treat?
1. Ear Shape: The insertion of a small implant into the ear cartilage bends the ear into the desired position and shape.Who is the ideal candidate for an earFold™ procedure?
The ideal candidate for an earFold™ is an individual of any age (including children over five) in generally good health who do not have recurrent ear problems. earFold is not recommended for individuals with certain chronic medical conditions, those under age five, those looking to correct ear size, and those with chronic ear infections (otitis media), inner ear or middle ear issues, ear canal abnormalities, or certain types of hearing loss.What is the average recovery associated with an earFold™ procedure?
Following an earFold™ patients can expect up to 12 weeks of ear sensitivity. The ears must be kept dry, and strenuous activity and sun exposure should be limited for the first few weeks. Earrings are not to be worn for the first two weeks. Most other normal activities, however, can be resumed immediately after the procedure.What are the potential side effects of an earFold™ procedure?
Possible side effects following an otoplasty include pain, minor bleeding, itching, scarring, infection, sensitivity, and asymmetrical appearance.What can someone expect from the results of an earFold™ procedure?
The results of an earFold™ procedure are immediate and permanent improvements to the appearance of the ear.What is the average cost of an earFold™ procedure?
An earFold™ can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $2,000. The actual cost of an earFold™ is dependent upon location, plastic surgeon, and length and involvement of the plastic surgery.Pros
- Quicker Recovery
- Less Likely For Keloid Scars
- Improved Shape
- Improved Proportion
- Confidence
- Low Risk
- Permanent Results
Cons
- Symmetry
- Possible Scars
Invasiveness Score
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Invasiveness is graded based on factors such as anesthesia practices, incisions, and recovery notes common to this procedure.
What to Expect
earFold is a minimally invasive alternative to an otoplasty surgery that corrects protruding ears. Here is a quick guide for what to expect before, during, and after an earFold procedure.
Before Treatment
- Avoid sunbathing for 2 weeks
- Stop taking blood thinning medications for 2 weeks
- Stop smoking 4 weeks before and after
- No alcohol 2 days prior
During Treatment
- Ear is cleansed
- Local anesthesia
- Small incision where the implant will be inserted
- Skin will be lifted away from the ear, revealing the ear cartilage
- Implant will be placed and released to the predetermined fold
- Skin is re-draped over the implant
- Sutures to close
Immediately After Treatment
- Mild sensitivity
1-2 Weeks After Treatment and Beyond
- Mild sensitivity up to 12 weeks
- Do not wear earrings for 2 weeks
- Most activities can be resumed almost immediately after the earFold
- Keep ear area clean and dry
Result Notes
- Permanent
- Visible immediately after surgery
The Takeaway
An earFold™ is an ear surgery performed for cosmetic reasons to reduce the protrusion of the ear. This cosmetic surgery is performed in children and adults for improved self-esteem and a more desirable aesthetic.
