Otoplasty

What Is Otoplasty?

Otoplasty is a cosmetic procedure designed to reposition and/or reshape one or both ears and/or earlobes. Patients may seek otoplasty surgery to correct ears that are prominent, protruding, asymmetrical, or otherwise irregular. When performed by an experienced plastic surgeon, otoplasty can provide aesthetically pleasing outcomes for patients of virtually all ages, allowing them to enjoy increased confidence and a more balanced, proportionate appearance.

For two decades, Kelowna plastic surgeon Brian J. Miller, MD has used advanced techniques to
create personalized otoplasty treatment plans. Continue reading for more information on otoplasty, and feel free to contact our office to schedule a consultation with Dr. Miller.

• Otoplasty Candidates
• Otoplasty Procedure
• Otoplasty Recovery
• Otoplasty Results
• Otoplasty Scars
• Otoplasty Cost
• Additional Otoplasty FAQs

Am I a Candidate for Otoplasty?

The most common candidates for otoplasty are children or adults who wish to address aesthetic imperfections in the ears or earlobes. A child’s ear cartilage must reach the majority of maturation (approximately five years of age) before they can undergo otoplasty; meanwhile, there is no maximum age limit for otoplasty. Recently, Dr. Miller has seen an increase in older women bothered by large or sagging earlobes, and lifting or reducing the lobe can be a very effective treatment for patients with these concerns.

As is the case with all facial plastic surgery procedures, candidates should be in good general health and have realistic expectations to be considered for otoplasty. For your own safety, you should also refrain from smoking or be prepared to quit.

How Is the Otoplasty Procedure Performed?

Otoplasty is usually performed under general anesthesia. Dr. Miller begins the otoplasty procedure by making a small incision in the natural crease behind the ear; from there, he is typically able to remove skin and reshape the cartilage through until the ear is at its desired shape and position. If necessary, Dr. Miller will use the same technique on the other ear to keep the results as symmetrical as possible. Patients can expect surgery to be complete within approximately one to two hours.

What Can I Expect During Otoplasty Recovery?

Treated ears should be wrapped in soft dressings following otoplasty. Dr. Miller will advise when the dressings can be removed. For the first week, we usually recommend that patients sleep on their backs with their heads elevated for optimal comfort during recovery.

After about a week, patients can return to their normal daily activities; however, strenuous sports and other activities that are likely to cause trauma to the ears should be avoided up to three months. Patients may experience a minimal amount of discomfort, swelling, bruising, numbness, and other side effects after surgery, but can often very effectively manage their symptoms with over-the-counter pain medication.

How Long Will Otoplasty Results Last?

Otoplasty results are meant to last a lifetime, so patients can expect to enjoy their newly enhanced ears for many years to come. Very rarely do patients need additional revisions after the initial surgery. Patients can typically see improvement and immediate results after the soft dressings are removed. Otoplasty is considered a highly-rewarding procedure, allowing patients to benefit from their newly proportionate facial appearance indefinitely.

What Will My Scars From Otoplasty Look Like?

Dr. Miller makes otoplasty incisions behind the ear and in the natural creases where the ear connects to the side of the head, making them as discreet as possible. By having the incisions behind the ear, post-operative scarring should be virtually undetectable to others. As the healing process continues, the scars should fade and become less pronounced.

How Much Does Otoplasty Cost?

Because otoplasty is customized to fit each individual’s needs and goals, the cost of treatment can vary among patients. A few factors that may affect the overall price of otoplasty include the following:

• Complexity of treatment
• Anesthesia fees
• Surgical facility costs
• Post-operative medication
• Surgeon’s fees

During the consultation, our team can provide a more accurate quote on how much your otoplasty treatment will cost. We accept a variety of payment methods and can gladly help you decide which financing option is best for you.

Additional Otoplasty FAQs 

Is otoplasty painful?

Because general anesthesia is used in the majority of cases, the otoplasty procedure itself is usually not considered painful. While patients may experience mild discomfort during recovery, over-the-counter medications should mitigate these symptoms. If any questions or concerns arise as you heal, we welcome you to contact our office.

How old do you have to be to undergo otoplasty?

Provided their ears have fully developed, children as young as five years old can be eligible for otoplasty. With this in mind, otoplasty can also be an effective option for adults who are dissatisfied with the shape, size, or prominence of their ears. In some cases, otoplasty can be combined with other surgical options (e.g. eyelid surgery, liposuction, etc.) for optimal rejuvenation. During your consultation, Dr. Miller will evaluate candidacy and discuss the best approach based on your age and individual goals.

Can otoplasty fix a split or torn earlobe?

While otoplasty can address split or torn earlobes, this type of procedure is often specifically called “earlobe reconstruction” or “earlobe repair.”* That said, Dr. Miller can tailor your surgery to simultaneously repair damaged earlobes and enhance the overall aesthetics of the ears. If you wish to correct a split or torn earlobe, Dr. Miller will be happy to take this into consideration as he forms your treatment plan.

Interested in otoplasty with Dr. Miller? Contact us today to schedule an appointment!

Medical Resources* 

Cleveland Clinic

American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS)