Otoplasty/Ear Reshaping

Protruding or unnaturally shaped ears can burden a child or adult through life. Minor surgical procedures can be performed to reshape the ears before children experience much of the potential psychological burden afforded by their peers. Similarly, reshaping an adult’s ears may result in an improved self-image with bolstered confidence. The procedure can be performed generally at age 6-years or older. This is when the ear cartilage is at an appropriate size for surgery, and seemingly when children can remain compliant with post-operative instructions. Reshaping a protruding or malformed ear can invoke a significant improvement in self-esteem. Otoplasty is a powerful procedure with long-lasting, natural, and gratifying results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the procedure performed?
Otoplasty is usually performed in an outpatient operating room facility.

What type of anesthesia is used for otoplasty?
General anesthesia is typically used for children, and local anesthesia with sedation is used for adults.

Is it ever too late to have otoplasty performed?
It is never too late to experience the benefits of otoplasty.

Where are the incisions made for otoplasty?
The incisions for otoplasty are small and hidden behind the ear. These incisions usually heal quite well and are extremely difficult to see, if visible at all.

Is there much pain with otoplasty?
Patients may experience some aching or throbbing of the ears for the first few days after otoplasty, though pain medication can be prescribed to control any discomfort that you experience.

What is the recovery like after otoplasty?
Patients will usually experience some throbbing and pain in the first 1-4 days following the procedure. This is controlled with an appropriate pain medication. The head and ears will be wrapped for the first post-operative night, and possible for the week following the procedure. A headband will need to be worn nightly during the weeks following the procedure.

How much time off from my daily activities should I schedule?
Children can usually return to school within 1 week of surgery, while adults can return to their schedules usually within 3-5 days.

When can I return to sporting activities or exercise after an otoplasty?
Exercise and strenuous work or activities are restricted for 3 weeks after the surgery. Contact sports are restricted for about 2 months.