Occasionally, the size or shape of the ears is so extreme that it is a source of embarrassment. Ear surgery, or otoplasty, is usually done to set prominent ears back closer to the head or to reduce the size of large ears. For the most part, the operation is done on children between the ages of 4 and 14. Ears are almost fully grown by the age of four, and the earlier the operation, the less teasing and ridicule the child will have to endure. Dr. Harris recommends that parents stay alert to their child's feelings about protruding ears; don't insist on the operation until your child wants the change. Children who feel uncomfortable about their ears and want the operation are generally more cooperative during the process and happier with the outcome. Ear surgery on adults is also possible. As with any operation, there are risks associated with the procedure. A small percentage of patients may develop a blood clot on the ear. It may dissolve naturally or can be drawn out with a needle. Occasionally, patients develop an infection in the cartilage, which can cause scar tissue to form. Such infections are usually treated with antibiotics; rarely, surgery may be required to drain the infected area. Ear surgery is usually performed as an outpatient procedure in a hospital. Ear surgery usually takes about two to three hours, although complicated cases may take longer. Usually, Dr. Harris makes a small incision in the back of the ear to expose the ear cartilage. He will then sculpt the cartilage and bend it back toward the head. Non-removable stitches may be used to help maintain the new shape. Occasionally, a large piece of cartilage is removed to provide a more natural-looking fold when the operation is complete. The patient's head is wrapped in a bulky bandage to promote the best healing and molding. Within a few days, the bulky bandages are replaced by a lighter head dressing similar to a head band. Stitches are usually removed, or will dissolve, in about 10 days.