Ear Surgery – Otoplasty

The appearance of one’s ears can be a sensitive subject for people with prominent, sticking out, or other cosmetic ear issues. For those who wish to correct misshapen ears, otoplasty may be the right surgery for them. Plastic surgeon Dr. Marguerite Bernett, of Irvine will use ear surgery to correct overly large ears, protruding ears, misshapen ears. She also provides revision surgery for patients who have undergone previous ear surgery. During your consultation, Dr. Bernett will examine your ear to help you achieve your cosmetic goals, as well as the best technique method for you.

Our plastic surgery office works with children as young as age 5 so that their ears can be reshaped prior to the start of elementary school. However, ear surgery can be performed on individuals of any age. Good candidates are men or women who demonstrate:

• Self-confidence issues because of the size or shape of their ears
• Protruding ears that stick out
• Large or oversized ears
• Under developed ear cartilage
• Torn earlobes due to heavy jewelry or ear trauma

Otoplasty begins with an incision behind the ear so that the cartilage can be exposed. This cartilage is then removed and/or reshaped until the ear takes on a normal appearance. Excess skin is removed and if the ear shows protrusion, our surgeon will reposition it closer to the head and firmly secure it with non-removable sutures. There are many variables that are used to help redefine the ears. The goal of this surgery is to produce a natural looking result that will be long lasting for the patient.

Swelling and bruising can be minimal after otoplasty. The swelling and bruising will start to resolve during the first couple of weeks after surgery, although this will vary between patients. A head dressing is applied immediately after surgery and removed at the first office visit. An elastic headband must be worn for several more weeks for protection. Patients must avoid strenuous activity for a minimum of 1-2 months following surgery. Children will need to be monitored closely so that they do not pick or scratch at their ears during the healing phase.

Otoplasty fees will vary by patient depending on the surgical case. The average fees for ear reshaping start at about $3,000, but can go as high as $6,000 for more for complex cases that require reconstruction.

Ear surgery has changed the lives of countless individuals. Once living with anxiety and fear to show their ears, surgery creates a new confidence that allows one to show their face from all angles. If you are self conscious about the size or shape of your ears and are ready to take the step to seek surgical advice, we invite you to call our Dallas plastic surgery office today and learn more about this life-changing surgery.