Otoplasty/Ear Surgery
Many children are self-conscious and get teased about their irregularly shaped or protruding ears, which can hinder their social development. Otoplasty, or ear surgery, can reshape and resize the ears, which can provide patients with confidence and self-esteem to significantly improve their quality of life. This is one of the most popular procedures for younger patients and can be performed on children as young as six years old. Adults also can benefit from this procedure.
Your Otoplasty
Overly Large Ears
Overly large ears can cause the face to appear unbalanced and make you feel insecure about your appearance. Otoplasty can safely and effectively correct the size and visibility of the ears to create better facial harmony.
Protruding Ears
Excess cartilage behind the ears can cause them to stick out from the sides of your head. Otoplasty can make the ears lie flatter and alleviate social ridicule that children and adults with protruding ears may face.
Earlobe Deformities
Split, torn, or stretched earlobes may be caused by injury or wearing heavy, gauged earrings. Earlobe deformities can be corrected and reshaped with the otoplasty procedure.
What do you desire?
Enhanced Facial Features
Otoplasty can provide you with aesthetically shaped and proportionate ears with long-lasting results. Reducing the protrusion of the ears can help restore facial balance and help relieve anxiety in children and adults.
Dr. Wilson believes the best results are the ones that create harmony with the rest of your facial features. He will not only make sure your ears are resized and reshaped to help you achieve your aesthetic goals, but he will also make sure that they appear more natural. Whether you are an adult or a parent who fears their child will face ridicule from their large or misshapen ears, otoplasty can achieve the results you desire. Reshaping and resizing the ears can help restore self-esteem in both adults and children. Feeling confident and comfortable about your ears can leave you satisfied with your appearance.Increased Confidence
Otoplasty Concerns
Recovery
Patients must wear a bandage over their ears that will be removed after five days of recovery. Bruising and swelling may last up to a week but should resolve after a few days. Be sure to keep your head elevated when recovering. Make sure to avoid putting pressure on your ears and physical activities for three weeks.
Scars
Incisions are made in the natural creases or behind the ears to make scarring as inconspicuous as possible.
Pain
You may experience minimal discomfort and pain in the ears after your otoplasty procedure. Dr. Wilson will prescribe you pain medications to alleviate any discomfort while your ears heal.
Risks
You may experience temporary side effects that consist of throbbing, swelling, redness, aching, or numbness after your surgery. As with most surgical procedures, there are some risks involved with otoplasty. These include:
- Infection
- Blood clots (hematoma)
- Asymmetry
- Recurrence of the protrusion
Cost
The cost of ear surgery is based on several factors, including the surgical fees, facility fees, and anesthesia fees. Dr. Wilson will provide you with an accurate price during your personal consultation.
Before & After Photos
14 year old female with prominent ears had bilateral otoplasty.
View Photo GalleryOtoplasty Frequently Asked Questions in Huntsville, AL
Am I a good candidate for otoplasty?
Children whose ears have fully matured are usually good candidates for ear surgery, as their ears will have cartilage that is more flexible to shape. Children and adults who struggle with asymmetrical or protruding ears are also good candidates for otoplasty.
What type of anesthesia is used during ear surgery?
For younger children, it is recommended that otoplasty is performed under general anesthesia. For older children and adults, otoplasty can be done with a local anesthetic and sedative.
How long do the results last?
Otoplasty results are permanent, and the ear tissues will continue to age naturally over time.
Is otoplasty covered by insurance?
Otoplasty may be covered by insurance in some cases. It is best to check with your specific insurance company to determine if you or your child is eligible for coverage.
Will otoplasty affect my hearing?
Otoplasty will have no effect on your hearing.
