Otoplasty
Ear Reshaping Surgery
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Ear Reshaping Surgery (Otoplasty)
Overview
What is ear reshaping surgery (otoplasty)?
Ear reshaping surgery, or otoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure designed to improve the shape, size, and position of the ears. It is commonly performed to:
- Correct overly large or protruding ears.
- Refine ear symmetry and proportion.
- Reshape misshapen ears due to genetics or injury.
Otoplasty can be performed on children, teens, and adults, providing permanent and natural-looking improvementsthat enhance facial balance and confidence.
How does otoplasty improve ear appearance?
Otoplasty:
- Pins back prominent ears closer to the head for a natural contour.
- Reduces the size of overly large ears (macrotia).
- Reshapes cartilage to correct deformities or irregular folds.
- Improves ear symmetry and balance.
How common is ear reshaping surgery?
Otoplasty is a popular procedure, especially for children and teens with prominent ears that may cause self-consciousness. Many adults also choose otoplasty for ear refinement and correction of previous deformities.
Who is a good candidate for otoplasty?
The ideal candidate for ear reshaping surgery:
- Has protruding, misshapen, or asymmetrical ears.
- Feels self-conscious about ear appearance.
- Is in good overall health with realistic expectations.
- For children, has fully developed ears (typically age 5 and older).
- Does not smoke or is willing to quit before and after surgery.
Procedure Details
Types of Otoplasty Procedures
Otoplasty is customized based on the patient’s unique ear anatomy and cosmetic goals.
1. Ear Pinning (Setback Otoplasty)
- Reduces ear projection by repositioning the ears closer to the head.
- Ideal for protruding ears that stick out noticeably.
- Involves reshaping the cartilage for a natural fold and position.
2. Ear Reduction Surgery (Macrotia Correction)
- Reduces the size of overly large ears.
- Involves removing excess cartilage and reshaping the ear.
- Ideal for patients with large, disproportionate ears.
3. Ear Lobe Repair
- Corrects stretched, torn, or split earlobes due to heavy earrings or trauma.
- Can reshape large or drooping earlobes for a youthful look.
4. Ear Deformity Correction
- Addresses congenital deformities such as lop ear, cup ear, or Stahl’s ear.
- Reshapes and reconstructs irregular or missing ear cartilage.
What happens before otoplasty surgery?
Before surgery, patients must:
- Consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss their goals and surgical approach.
- Undergo a physical examination to assess ear structure.
- Avoid smoking and blood-thinning medications to reduce complications.
- Plan for recovery, as swelling and mild discomfort are expected.
What happens during ear reshaping surgery?
Otoplasty is performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the patient’s age and procedure complexity. The surgery typically takes 1–2 hours.
The general steps include:
- Incision Placement – The surgeon makes small incisions behind the ear or within natural ear creases to minimize visible scarring.
- Cartilage Reshaping and Repositioning – The ear cartilage is sculpted, folded, or secured with sutures to achieve the desired shape.
- Excess Skin Removal (if necessary) – Any unnecessary tissue is trimmed for better ear contouring.
- Surgical Closure – Sutures are placed, and dressings or a compression bandage are applied for protection.
Risks / Benefits
What are the benefits of ear reshaping surgery?
Otoplasty provides lifelong improvements with minimal downtime, including:
- More proportionate, symmetrical ears.
- Correction of prominent or misshapen ears.
- Boosted confidence and self-esteem.
- Permanent, natural-looking results.
- Minimal scarring with well-hidden incisions.
What are the risks of otoplasty surgery?
While otoplasty is safe and effective, potential risks include:
- Temporary swelling and bruising – Common but resolves within a few weeks.
- Minor asymmetry – Small differences in ear shape may occur.
- Scarring – Incisions are well-hidden but may take months to fade.
- Temporary numbness or tingling – Improves as nerves heal.
- Overcorrection – Ears may appear too close to the head, requiring revision.
Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon with otoplasty experience reduces risks and ensures optimal results.
Recovery and Outlook
How long does recovery take after otoplasty?
Recovery depends on the extent of reshaping, but general timelines include:
- First 3–5 days – Swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort. Patients must wear a protective headband.
- Week 1–2 – Stitches are removed (if non-dissolvable), and most bruising subsides.
- Weeks 3–6 – Swelling continues to improve, and final results become more defined.
- Months 3–6 – The ears fully heal, with minimal visible scars.
Patients should avoid contact sports, excessive ear manipulation, and sun exposure during early recovery.
How long do otoplasty results last?
Otoplasty results are permanent, providing lifelong improvements in ear shape and position.
- Ears maintain their new shape indefinitely.
- Scars are minimal and fade over time.
Proper post-operative care ensures optimal healing and long-term results.
Can otoplasty be combined with other procedures?
Yes! Many patients combine ear reshaping with:
- Rhinoplasty (Nose Surgery) – Balances overall facial symmetry.
- Chin Augmentation – Enhances facial proportions and jawline structure.
- Facelift or Neck Lift – Addresses signs of aging while refining ear placement.
Final Thoughts on Ear Reshaping Surgery
Otoplasty is a highly effective, minimally invasive procedure that provides long-lasting correction for prominent, asymmetrical, or misshapen ears. Whether performed for cosmetic reasons or congenital deformities, ear reshaping surgery improves facial balance and enhances confidence.
At BodEvolve, our board-certified plastic surgeons specialize in customized ear reshaping techniques, ensuring natural, symmetrical, and beautifully balanced results.
If you are considering ear reshaping surgery, schedule a consultation today to explore your options.
Call (214) 831-6182 or request an appointment online.