Otoplasty, which is commonly known as “cosmetic ear surgery” or “ear pinning,” is a cosmetic procedure that permanently changes the shape, size, or proportions of the ears. This cosmetic surgery is performed to address abnormalities of the outer ears that are often the result of birth defects, physical trauma to the ears or ears that protruded since birth. While surgical techniques vary from case to case, otoplasty commonly requires the removal of excess cartilage through a small incision. In some cases, cartilage grafts may be required to restructure the ear. Once the desired result is achieved, otoplasty enhances the patient’s self-image and overall quality of life.
The cost for otoplasty surgery varies by the experience of the surgeon as well as the type of otoplasty procedure being performed. Unless the surgery is performed to address a birth defect or improve the hearing of the patient, most insurance companies will not pay for cosmetic ear surgery. The patient will be responsible for all costs including any fees charged by the doctor or the medical facility.
Downtime and recovery rates vary according to the complexity of the otoplasty being performed. Generally speaking, patients experience a mild recovery time with most people returning to work after the first week. Patients need to wear a dressing over their ears for one to seven days. Additionally, the doctor will suggest keeping the head elevated, even while sleeping, for up to two weeks.Patients who have undergone an “ear pinning” procedure will be required to wear a headband for the first week or two to keep the ears in place. They should also avoid strenuous activities for up to two weeks.
Downtime and recovery rates vary according to the complexity of the otoplasty being performed. Generally speaking, patients experience a mild recovery time with most people returning to work after the first week. Patients need to wear a dressing over their ears for one to seven days. Additionally, the doctor will suggest keeping the head elevated, even while sleeping, for up to two weeks.Patients who have undergone an “ear pinning” procedure will be required to wear a headband for the first week or two to keep the ears in place. They should also avoid strenuous activities for up to two weeks.
Scarring
Blood clots
Infections
Allergic reaction to anesthesia
Numbness of the ears
Skin and cartilage necrosis
Unsatisfactory results
Excessive bleeding
Suture failure
Skin irritation
Failure to correct abnormalities of the ears
Otoplasty typically provides immediate results for protruding, malformed, abnormally large, or underdeveloped ears. Any scars are often successfully hidden behind, or within the folds of, the ear.Patients can expect to see some bruising and swelling after the surgery. It can take about two or three weeks for these conditions to resolve on their own. The final results can take a year to appear, but they should last a lifetime.
Otoplasty typically provides immediate results for protruding, malformed, abnormally large, or underdeveloped ears. Any scars are often successfully hidden behind, or within the folds of, the ear.Patients can expect to see some bruising and swelling after the surgery. It can take about two or three weeks for these conditions to resolve on their own. The final results can take a year to appear, but they should last a lifetime.
Ear Taping
Ear Taping During this nonsurgical procedure, a doctor will apply medical tape to prominent ears to flatten them against the patient’s head. By keeping the ears in place as the cartilage matures, the ears are effectively restructured into a normal appearance. The medical tape, which must be worn 24-hours a day, is reapplied as needed for 6-8 weeks.
Ear Splinting
Ear SplintingWith infants whose ears require additional reshaping, the use of a splint may be required. The splint, which is made of soft, elastic material, holds the malleable cartilage in place as it hardens into a permanent shape. This procedure results in a more typical shape to the ear. Ear splinting may also be combined with ear taping to correct ears that are both too prominent and malformed.
Ear Prostheses
Ear ProsthesesFor those wishing to avoid surgery, wearing an ear prosthesis may be an option. Material, such as silicone, can be fashioned into a specific shape and then worn to cover underdeveloped ears or provide a more symmetrical look. This results in a more aesthetically pleasing shape.
For those wishing to have otoplasty, find a board-certified surgeon in your area with documented experience in performing cosmetic ear surgery to safely and effectively correct ear abnormalities. In order to find the best cosmetic doctor for your otoplasty surgery, please use our “Find a Doctor” search page.
