Otoplasty - An Introduction

While the term otoplasty may be less familiar than other plastic surgery terms such as rhinoplasty, it is a useful surgery worth understanding. At our plastic surgery practice, otoplasty refers to reshaping the outer ear so it looks proportional and natural from every angle.

This surgery does not alter hearing. Instead, it allows Dr. Core to reposition cartilage so prominent or asymmetrical ears sit closer to the head and harmonize with the rest of the face.

Who should consider otoplasty?

Having ears that stick out or are very large can detract from other facial features. Noticeable ears can even open young children up to teasing, bullying, and ridicule. Because confidence matters at every age, otoplasty is often performed on children as young as four or five before they enter school. The procedure can also be performed on adults at almost any time.

For this reason, otoplasty is often performed on children as young as 4 or 5 years old before they enter school. Otoplasty can also be performed on adults at almost any time.

What happens during the procedure?

An otoplasty procedure is customized to the patient's needs, but in many cases the surgery involves reshaping and removing some of the cartilage behind the ear. This results in ears that sit closer to the head, making them less obtrusive. If the ears need to be reshaped, this can also be done during the procedure. Because the incisions are made behind the ear near a natural crease, scars are not noticeable.

What is the recovery process like?

This surgery is relatively quick and simple and is usually completed in about an hour. After the surgery, ears are covered with a special dressing for several days. Patients also sleep with a soft headband for a few more weeks to protect the repair during healing.

If you are concerned about ear appearance for yourself or your child, consider otoplasty. Schedule a consultation to review candidacy, recovery, and timing with Dr. Core.