Otoplasty (Ear Surgery)
Learn How to Choose an Expert Surgeon for Your Otoplasty (Ear Surgery)
Ear surgery, or otoplasty, reshapes and/or repositions the ears for children or adults who feel self-conscious about the size, shape, or position of their ears. An experienced, board-certified facial cosmetic surgeon can perform this operation with precision, helping to balance your ears with your other facial features.
What is otoplasty?
Otoplasty is a cosmetic surgery procedure that alters the shape, size, and/or position of the ears with a customized surgical plan. Most otoplasties involve incisions placed behind the ears to sculpt the cartilage, reposition the ears closer to the head, or reduce their size. Ear pinning is a type of otoplasty surgery.
What does otoplasty treat?
Ear surgery is used to correct a variety of ear conditions, such as:
- Large or prominent ears
- Protruding ears on one or both sides
- Previous ear surgery correction
- Ear shape irregularities due to trauma or injury
Good candidates
To be a good candidate for otoplasty, you should be a non-smoker in good health who is motivated to see an adjustment in ear contours, with realistic expectations about the outcome of the procedure. Children may be able to undergo otoplasty beginning around age five.
The otoplasty procedure
Before otoplasty, you will be administered anesthesia to keep you comfortable during surgery—either local, IV sedation, or general anesthesia. Your surgeon will create incisions in the back of the ears, reshape the cartilage, reposition ears closer to the head, and close incisions with sutures. In some cases, your surgeon may make incisions in the front of the ears, but these are typically made within the folds to hide any scars.
Consultation for otoplasty
During your consultation, expect your surgeon to evaluate your health and any pre-existing health conditions or risk factors you have. They will physically examine your ears and will likely take photographs for your medical records. You will have the chance to ask about your options, look at before and after images of the surgeon’s other patients, and learn what your surgeon recommends to help you achieve the goals you have for your appearance. This conversation should also cover likely outcomes and potential risks so that you can make an informed decision about proceeding with surgery.
Preparing for your ear surgery
Expect your surgeon to provide detailed pre-operative instructions, with a thorough explanation of recovery restrictions. You may need to stop taking certain medications or adjust your current medications before surgery, and refrain from smoking or using any nicotine products, which can interfere with the healing process. Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before your surgery unless your surgeon tells you otherwise.
Risks and potential complications of otoplasty
There are risks associated with ear pinning surgery, just as there are with any cosmetic procedure. Risks include infection, bleeding, asymmetries, visible scarring, or changes in skin sensation.
Recovery & Results
Your ears will be bandaged for protection and support after surgery. Your surgeon will give you specific instructions on how to care for your ears, which medications to apply topically or take orally, and when to follow up. A soft headband or a dressing may need to be worn for a few weeks to keep your ears in their new position.
You will likely experience some discomfort, but this can be managed with prescribed pain medication. It’s essential to keep your head elevated as much as possible to minimize swelling. Closely follow your surgeon’s instructions as far as restrictions on contact sports, heavy lifting, and strenuous activities. Avoid any activities that could result in trauma to the ears.
The results of otoplasty are typically long-lasting. Incisions for otoplasty are usually made behind the ears or within the natural creases of the ears, making them virtually invisible over time, as any visible scarring will fade to blend in with the surrounding skin.
Cost of Otoplasty
The cost of otoplasty will likely vary widely depending on the specifics of your surgical plan and the average costs in the area where you live. Cosmetic surgeons provide patients with personalized estimates after their consultation so that you can make a decision based on the unique costs associated with your procedure plan. Many surgeons offer financing options and payment plans for procedures not covered by insurance through partnership with medical financing companies.
Why choose a board-certified facial cosmetic surgeon for otoplasty?
Choosing a board-certified facial cosmetic surgeon for your otoplasty means that your surgeon has extensive training and experience in facial procedures and has undergone a rigorous review process along with ongoing certification maintenance. If you’re considering aesthetic surgery, consult with an experienced face specialist certified by the American Board of Facial Cosmetic Surgery, and learn how ear surgery can help you achieve a balanced and harmonious appearance.