Cosmetic Ear Surgery: Frequently Asked Questions
Cosmetic ear surgery is also known as otoplasty and can be done to improve the proportion, shape, or position of the ears. For instance, if the ears are disproportionately large (macrotia) or they protrude forward, this can be surgically corrected. When heavy earrings are worn for many years and the piercing site becomes abnormally stretched open, this can be reconstructed. Cosmetic ear surgery involves operating on the outer part of the ear and must be distinguished from those procedures performed to improve hearing (i.e. inside the ear).
Am I a good candidate for Cosmetic Ear Surgery?
If the size, shape, or position of your ears consistently makes you feel self-conscious, then there are safe and effective surgical management options that will help. Otoplasty, cosmetic ear surgery, does not help with hearing or other inner-ear problems.
How is Cosmetic Ear Surgery performed if my ears stick out?
Typically a skin incision is made behind the ear to either remove or fold a small piece of cartilage that will pull the ear back. A small amount of skin might be removed and the incision is then closed with sutures.
Is Cosmetic Ear Surgery painful?
Typically local anesthesia is sufficient for pain control, but light sedation is sometimes helpful to relieve anxiety as needed. There is mild postoperative discomfort that can last for 1-2 weeks.
Are there any contraindications with Cosmetic Ear Surgery?
You should review your medical history and current medications with the surgeon, but overall this procedure is minimally-invasive and there are no contraindications.
How long will results last for Cosmetic Ear Surgery?
Typically surgery is only performed once and there are very few cases where it needs to be repeated.