The Procedure
Otoplasty or cosmetic ear surgery is done for repositioning/“tucking” prominent ears or asymmetric ears to make them less noticeable or less projecting. This may also include addressing large or improperly folded or malformed ears, to create a more proportional size, and pleasing naturally appearing ears. If you have been teased or are bothered by the way your ears stick out from your head, or if you have ear deformities due to birth defects or injury, then otoplasty can help change the shape, size, and position of your ears without affecting your hearing. Achieving symmetry and a more “normal” appearing ear helps boost self-esteem, and readily permits ponytails, or hairstyles that showcase the ears.
This procedure is commonly performed in both children and adults. Usually children should be at least 5 years old, which corresponds to the time of increased peer-to-peer interactions (kindergarten) and the ear size is near 70-80% of adult size at this time. Otoplasty (ear pinning) may be needed to correct prominent ears and/or congenital abnormalities that lead to a child being teased or bullied in school. This can cause greater psychological effects in a child, which is why ear pinning at an early age when body consciousness is not yet fully set-in is advisable. Older children, or adults may also seek this procedure and recover quickly as well. In some young infants (“neonates”) improperly folded ears can be molded into normal position. If you are concerned about your newborns ear, please ask us about ear molding as well. (this only works for the first couple months of life).
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Otoplasty can be done to correct the following:
- Prominent ears
- Ear shape problems
- Large or asymmetric ears
- Disproportionate ears
- Asymmetries or problems from previous ear surgery
- Lop ear, cupped or shell ear, stahl’s ear and unnatural creases
Before the Procedure: What to Expect?
Dr. Steinbacher will examine your ears, take measurements, and discuss your goals and objectives. Past history and medical conditions (such as ear infections) that may affect the procedure will be reviewed. We may ask you to avoid certain medications prior to this procedure, and adults will stop smoking. The risks of this procedure are minimal, and we will discuss the risks, benefits at your consultation. We will ensure to be on the same page regarding your expectations and your goals for the procedure.
This is a day surgery where you are in and out as an out-patient. A light general anesthesia is utilized and your ears will be numbed during the procedure, making the pain minimal for the first few hours postoperatively. The approach is behind the ear in the crease, so the scar is well-hidden. Dissolving sutures are used on the skin, and do not need to be removed.
Enjoy symmetrical, aesthetically pleasing ears.
Cosmetic ear surgery can help to make ears that stick out or are malformed or damaged in any cosmetic way look more normal or attractive.
Schedule your ear surgery consultation today.
Ear Surgery (Otopalasty) FAQs
What is otoplasty? How can it improve my appearance?
Otoplasty, commonly known as ear pinning, is a surgical procedure designed to reshape, reposition, or resize ears that are protruding, asymmetrical, or malformed. This surgery can enhance facial harmony by bringing the ears closer to the head, correcting congenital deformities, or addressing issues from previous surgeries. The goal is to create natural-looking, balanced ears that boost self-confidence and allow patients to wear hairstyles that highlight their ears without self-consciousness.
At what age can otoplasty be performed?
Otoplasty is suitable for both children and adults. For children, the procedure is typically performed after the age of 5, when ear development is sufficient, and the child is psychologically prepared for the surgery. Early intervention can prevent teasing and bullying related to ear appearance. Adults seeking the correct ear shape or size for cosmetic reasons can also benefit from otoplasty. Dr. Steinbacher evaluates each patient individually to determine the appropriate timing and approach.
What can I expect during the otoplasty procedure?
The otoplasty procedure is usually performed on an outpatient basis under light general anesthesia. We make incisions behind the ear so that visible scarring from the procedure is minimized. Through these incisions, cartilage is reformed, and excess skin may be removed to achieve the desired ear position and contour. The surgery typically takes 1-2 hours, depending on the complexity of the case.
What is the recovery process like after otoplasty?
The recovery process for an otoplasty will vary from patient to patient. However, the recovery process typically involves the use of a protective headband for the first week to support the treated ears while helping to minimize swelling. Many patients experience mild discomfort, swelling, and bruising, which subside within a few days. While many return to school or work after a week, spirited activities should be avoided for several weeks to ensure proper healing. Our team provides detailed post-operative care instructions to optimize recovery.
Are there risks or complications associated with otoplasty?
Like any surgery, otoplasty comes with some potential risks, such as minor infection, bleeding, visible scarring, uneven results, or temporary changes in skin sensation. These issues are uncommon, particularly when the procedure is performed by an experienced surgeon like Dr. Steinbacher. During your consultation, he will thoroughly review all possible risks and explain the measures taken to ensure a safe procedure and smooth recovery with natural-looking results.
How long do the results of otoplasty last?
The results of otoplasty are typically permanent. Once the ears are repositioned and healed, they generally retain their new shape and position throughout life. However, as with any surgical procedure, individual healing responses can vary. We monitor patients post-operatively to ensure optimal outcomes and address any concerns promptly.
How do I schedule a consultation for otoplasty?
To schedule a consultation with Dr. Steinbacher, please visit the Ear Surgery (Otoplasty) page on his website. There, you can request an appointment, learn more about the procedure, and view before-and-after photos of previous patients. Our team is committed to providing personalized care and helping you achieve your aesthetic goals.
After the Procedure: How to Recover?
To protect and support your ears after surgery, they will place a light “wrap” or bandage. We like to keep this for 5 days and see you to remove it. Sleep with your head elevated and avoid significant pressure overlying the ears. It is helpful to wear loose-fitting collars or button-down shirts for ease on and off over the dressing.
After we remove the dressing, we have you wear a sports or tennis type headband for the next week. Afterwards, you will wear the headband only at night, for a couple months. You can get the sites wet once the initial bandage is removed, and we like gentle warm soap and water, followed by an antibiotic ointment. You will be instructed as to when you can resume school and work, but it is usually soon following surgery. We do ask that you refrain from swimming and diving for at least 6 weeks after otoplasty.
Dr. Derek Steinbacher has devoted his life to
aesthetic and life-changing surgery. He is an artistic and meticulous surgeon who draws patients
from around the world due to his perspective, unmatched skill, and exceptional results. He is able
to uniquely address the face (facelift +
rejuvenation), jawline (orthognathic; chin; contouring; implants), nasal (rhinoplasty), eyelids, profile, neck, breast, and body with
one-of-a-kind results.
He is a multiple Board-Certified, Fellowship-Trained Plastic, Cosmetic, and Cranio-Maxillofacial
Surgery. He is Fellow of the most prestigious surgical organizations, including the Society of
Plastic Surgeons, the American College of Surgeons, the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, the
Academy of Facial
Plastic Surgery, Societies of Craniofacial and Maxillofacial Surgery, the Aesthetic
Society, and the Rhinoplasty Society. He has served as Full-Professor
of Plastic Surgery at Yale, including Director of the Cleft and Craniofacial Program, and Chief of
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. Dr. Steinbacher has unparalleled training at premier institutions,
including Harvard
and Johns Hopkins. His
perspective brings together the best aspects of many distinct – but related fields – and it is this
intersection of scope and expertise, in addition to an artistic eye, which enables excellent
comprehensive results.
Dr. Steinbacher's approach: technical acumen, meticulousness, and penchant for combining art and
science, together with his eye for balance, beauty, and harmony, helps achieve outcomes that greatly
improve a person's confidence, health, and overall quality of life. Patients can trust that they are
always in good hands!