Skip to main content

Ear Surgery

Cosmetic ear surgery, also known as otoplasty, is a procedure designed to change the shape, size, and position of the ears, thereby enhancing appearance and achieving overall facial harmony.

Ear Surgery

Ear Surgery (Otoplasty)

Cosmetic ear surgery, also known as otoplasty, is a procedure designed to change the shape, size, and position of the ears, thereby enhancing appearance and achieving overall facial harmony. This reshaping surgery can address a variety of issues, such as protruding ears, misshapen ears, and ear deformities caused by injury, trauma, or congenital conditions. Otoplasty can be performed once the ear reaches full maturity, around age 6, and is suitable for both children and adults. Otoplasty is typically performed on both ears to optimize symmetry. By reshaping the cartilage and repositioning the ears closer to the head, otoplasty can create a more natural shape while bringing balance and proportion to the ears and face. The result is an improvement in both the appearance and self-esteem of individuals who may have been self-conscious about their ears. It is important to note that otoplasty does not impact or improve a person’s ability to hear sounds.

About the Procedure

Why is Ear Surgery Done?

  • Correcting ears that protrude too far from the head.
  • Reducing the size of overly large ears (macrotia).
  • Reshaping misshapen ears or earlobes.
  • Addressing ear deformities caused by injury, trauma, or congenital conditions.
  • Correcting small, constricted ears.
  • Revising results from previous ear surgeries.
  • Enhancing facial symmetry and balance.

How Long Does Ear Surgery Last?

The results of ear surgery are generally long-lasting and permanent. Once the ears have healed, their new shape and position are typically stable, and further procedures are usually not needed. The longevity of the results depends on maintaining good overall health and adhering to post-operative care instructions. Many patients find that the improved appearance of their ears significantly enhances their confidence and self-image.

What are the Different Types of Otoplasty?

There are three major types of otoplasty:

  • Ear Pinning: This procedure is used to correct prominent ears that stick out. Ear pinning brings the ears closer to the side of the head and reshapes malformed cartilage.
  • Ear Reduction: This process involves removing excess tissue to reduce the size of large or oversized ears (macrotia).
  • Ear Augmentation: This procedure increases the outer portion of the ear, typically for individuals with misshapen ears, small ears, or underdeveloped ears (microtia).

Who is a Good Candidate for Ear Surgery?

Ideal candidates for ear surgery are individuals who:

  • Have protruding, large, or misshapen ears.
  • Are physically healthy and do not have medical conditions that can impair healing.
  • Have a positive outlook and specific, realistic goals for improving their appearance.
  • Are non-smokers or are willing to quit smoking for a significant period before and after surgery.
  • Are at least 6 years old, with fully developed and stable ear cartilage.
  • Experience self-consciousness or dissatisfaction with the appearance of their ears.

Patients who are not good candidates include those with complex medical conditions that can impair healing after surgery or those with unrealistic expectations about the outcomes.

How to Prepare for Ear Surgery

Preparation for ear surgery begins with a comprehensive consultation with Dr. Amir Dorafshar and our medical team. During your consultation, we will evaluate your general health and review all your medications, including prescriptions, herbal supplements, and over-the-counter drugs. We will discuss your medical history, including any previous surgeries and ear infections, as well as current and past medical conditions. Your surgeon will address any concerns you might have about the procedure, examine the size, shape, symmetry, and placement of your ears, and take measurements and photographs.

We will also discuss the likely outcomes of your surgery, along with possible risks and complications. You may need to adjust or stop taking certain medications that can increase the risk of bleeding. Smoking cessation is crucial, and it is recommended to quit well in advance of the surgery date. Maintaining an active lifestyle, a healthy diet, and limiting alcohol intake will also support the healing process.

What Happens During the Surgery

Otoplasty can be performed in a hospital or an outpatient surgical facility, and you can usually go home the same day. During the procedure, the patient is typically given either local anesthesia with sedation to numb the surgery site or general anesthesia to induce sleep. Otoplasty techniques vary depending on the type of correction needed, but generally, small incisions are made behind the ear or within the inner creases of the ear. Through these incisions, the surgeon will reshape, add, or remove cartilage and skin as necessary. The cartilage is then folded into the correct position and secured with internal stitches to create a more natural contour. External stitches are used to close the incisions. The entire procedure usually takes about 1 to 3 hours, depending on the extent of the correction. After surgery, your surgeon will place a dressing over your ears to protect them and aid in healing.

How Long Does It Take?

Ear surgery typically takes about 1 to 3 hours, depending on the specific techniques used and the extent of the correction required. If additional procedures are performed simultaneously, the total surgery time may be longer.

Risks of a Ear Surgery

While ear surgery is generally safe, it does carry some risks, including infection, bruising, bleeding, soreness, itchiness, redness, swelling, scarring, asymmetry in ear placement, changes in skin sensation, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. In some cases, revision surgery may be necessary if the desired results are not achieved. Stitches used to secure the ear’s new shape might not function as intended and could cause inflammation. Additionally, there is a risk of overcorrection, which could result in ears looking unnatural or appearing pinned back. Proper post-operative care and follow-up with Dr. Dorafshar can help manage these risks and ensure a smooth recovery.

Benefits of Ear Surgery

The benefits of ear surgery include improved facial symmetry and balance, a more natural and proportionate ear shape, and enhanced self-confidence and self-esteem. Otoplasty is a safe procedure that produces permanent results. After the surgery, patients often feel more comfortable and less self-conscious about their appearance.

Recovery after Ear Surgery

Recovery from ear surgery involves some swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which typically subside within a few weeks. After otoplasty, your ears may be covered with dressings for support and protection. These dressings should be kept clean and dry. You may experience some itching and discomfort. It is important to follow all post-operative care instructions, including taking your pain medications as recommended, to ensure proper healing.

Avoid sleeping on your side to keep pressure off your ears and avoid placing excessive force on the incisions. Avoid touching your ears and choose clothes that do not require pulling over your head. Refrain from strenuous activities and any activities that can directly irritate the surgical sites. Keeping your head elevated while resting can help reduce swelling, and sleeping on your back can prevent pressure on your ears.

Your surgeon will remove your bandages a few days after surgery, and your ears may be red and swollen at first. You may need to wear a headband that covers your ears at night for a few weeks to support the new position of the ears and protect them during the initial healing phase. Most patients can return to normal activities within a week or two, but full otoplasty recovery takes between six to eight weeks. Most people will notice improvements within two to three weeks, with final results becoming more apparent over the following months.

FAQ

How painful is ear surgery?
Pain is typically moderate and can be managed with prescribed medication. Most patients report discomfort rather than significant pain.

Will there be visible scars?
The incisions for ear surgery are usually made behind the ears or within natural creases, resulting in minimal visible scarring that fades over time.

How soon can I return to work?
Most patients can return to work within a week, depending on their job and how their healing progresses.

How long do the results last?
The results of ear surgery are generally permanent. Once healed, the ears should maintain their new shape and position.

Can I combine ear surgery with other procedures?
Yes, ear surgery can be combined with other facial procedures for more comprehensive enhancement.

What should I avoid after surgery?
Avoid strenuous activities, smoking, and alcohol, and follow all post-operative instructions to ensure optimal healing and results.

Complementary Procedures

Complementary procedures that can enhance the results of ear surgery include facelifts to address sagging and wrinkles in the mid and lower face, eyelid surgery to rejuvenate the eyes, and botulinum toxin or dermal fillers to smooth fine lines and add volume to areas that have lost fullness. Combining these procedures can provide more harmonious results and a more youthful overall appearance.

For more detailed information please contact our office or book a consultation.

From Our Patients

At Evolve Your Life, we’re committed to delivering a world-class experience through attentive, responsive, and compassionate care. How are we doing?

See what some of our patients have to say:

Kiersten Obermayer

Dr. Dorafshar is absolutely amazing. He truly cares about the results as well as the patient. He checked up on me multiple times through my recovery and my results are amazing already after 10 days! Can’t wait to see them when I’m fully healed!

Khyla Tatak

Talk about a great experience overall. Dr. Dorafshar made me feel at ease, answered all of my questions and set realistic expectations on recovery. Constantly checked in to make sure I was doing ok during the first week post surgery. His team set the bar high. I’m so incredibly happy with my results.

“Anyone seeking out a great surgeon who will work with your needs and help you feel like the best version of yourself, I highly recommend Dr. Amir Dorafshar.”

—Iliana Diana

See yourself. Be yourself.

At Evolve Your Life, we know how important it is to look in the mirror every day and see a reflection that feels like your own.

BOOK A CONSULTATION