Simply referred to as ear surgery, an otoplasty is a form of cosmetic surgery that:

Those with unusual ears often feel awkward in social settings, and might even go to great lengths to cover up their ears. Otoplasty restores self-confidence, particularly among children who may be bullied because of their protruding ears. It is also one of the few types of plastic surgery that can be performed on children, some of which may be as young as age five.

Anyone over the age of five who does not suffer from chronic ear infections could be a good candidate for otoplasty.

Prior to ear surgery, you should undergo a hearing exam to check for hearing loss. An ear irrigation to remove excess wax buildup could be needed as well.

Local anesthesia will be administered, allowing an incision along the back of your ear. One of our board-certified physicians will then use a carefully crafted technique to sculpt your ear into its new form. This may involve reducing cartilage or adding tissue to increase the antihelical fold located just inside the rim of your ear.

This will depend on the extent of damage but could be between one and two hours.

Your stitches may be covered with a gauze bandage. If so, you should keep it clean and dry and avoid pulling on it. Your ears should also stay dry for a few days afterwards, so you should avoid swimming and take baths instead of showers.

Any scars from ear surgery are located behind the ear. Others will not be able to see them unless you pull your earlobe forward.

Ear pinning surgery provides immediate results, but it could take a week or so to notice the results of other types of otoplasty.

The results of otoplasty are permanent, even in children who may experience future ear growth.

If you also have damaged earlobes, you may want to consider earlobe repair surgery at the same time as your otoplasty.

Because you may have different needs than any other patient, we will not be able to discuss the exact cost with you until after your consultation. Cash, personal checks, and credit cards are always accepted for any of the procedures we offer, and many of our patients will also qualify for low-interest financing.