Otoplasty

Otoplasty, or correction of protruding ears can have a profound impact on the life of a patient. Although protruding ears don’t affect physical health, they can affect self-image and self-esteem deeply. If you’re tired of feeling self-conscious about your ears, consider surgical correction for improved quality of life with Dr. Spalla.

Otoplasty

What is Otoplasty?

Otoplasty refers to a surgical procedure that corrects protruding or misshapen ears. This cosmetic surgery can enhance the appearance and restore confidence for individuals who feel self-conscious about their ears.

Some common reasons why individuals choose otoplasty are protruding ears that stick out excessively from the head, misshapen or asymmetrical ears due to genetics or injury, and lack of confidence and self-esteem caused by teasing or bullying related to ear appearance.

The goal of otoplasty is to provide patients with balanced, proportionate ears that harmonize with their facial features.

How Otoplasty Works

Consultation. You’ll discuss your goals and concerns with Dr. Spalla, who will evaluate the shape and positioning of your ears and determine if you are a suitable candidate for otoplasty and come up with a treatment plan for you.
Pre-op procedure. When it’s time for your otoplasty, local anesthesia will be administered to make sure you don’t feel a thing.
Incisions. Dr. Spalla will make small incisions behind your ear and discreetly hidden in natural creases to minimize visible scarring.
Reshaping cartilage.Through these incisions, Dr. Spalla will reshape and reposition the underlying cartilage of your ears to match the proportions of your face. This helps achieve a more balanced and symmetrical appearance.
Suturing. Once the reshaping is complete, sutures are used to hold the newly sculpted cartilage in place until it heals properly.
Recovery and results. After otoplasty, you may experience swelling and mild discomfort around your ears for several days. It’s important to follow post-operative care instructions provided by our team to facilitate proper healing. As healing progresses over time, typically within a few weeks or months (varies per individual), you’ll begin noticing improved ear symmetry and an overall enhanced aesthetic appearance.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Otoplasty?

Most people who have treatment done are between the ages of 5-7, right after the ears have finished maturing. However, Dr. Spalla can perform otoplasty no matter how old you are. Otoplasty is recommended if your ears stick out more than 20 mm from your head and at an angle of more than 35 degrees from your occipital scalp (the back portion of your head). No matter your concern, Dr. Spalla will be happy to see you and come up with a plan tailored to your needs.

The Benefits of Otoplasty

Otoplasty can have significant positive effects on self-image and self-esteem.

By correcting the appearance of protruding ears, otoplasty helps individuals feel more confident about their overall appearance.

For many people with prominent ears, this correction can be transformative in terms of body image perception.Having undergone treatment not only improves physical aesthetics but also enhances mental well-being:

After the procedure, patients often report feeling greater self-assurance and improved social interactions.Many experience an increased willingness to try new hairstyles or wear different types of headwear without worrying about concealing their ears.

Otoplasty provides individuals with not just physical improvements to their appearance but also emotional benefits that positively impact their quality-of-life by boosting confidence and self-esteem.

Recovery and Aftercare

Most people who have treatment done are between the ages of 5-7, right after the ears have finished maturing. However, Dr. Spalla can perform otoplasty no matter how old you are. Otoplasty is recommended if your ears stick out more than 20 mm from your head and at an angle of more than 35 degrees from your occipital scalp (the back portion of your head). You’re also a good candidate if your ears were deformed at birth.

Immediate post-surgery

Following the procedure, patients may experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising around the treated area. Dr. Spalla will prescribe pain medication that can help manage any pain or discomfort during this time.

Pain Management

You may experience some discomfort or pain after the procedure, which can be managed with prescribed medication provided by Dr. Spalla.

Downtime

Expect the swelling to take one to two weeks to die down. It may take up to six weeks for you to fully heal from otoplasty. Physical exertion should be avoided for at least six weeks post-surgery as it can hinder healing and increase the risks of complications.

Wearing a headband

A specially designed headband may need to be worn for several weeks after surgery to protect and support the newly reshaped ears.

Follow-up appointments

Regular check-ups with Dr. Spalla will occur in the months following otoplasty to monitor progress and address any concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is otoplasty painful?

Otoplasty is typically performed under local anesthesia in adults and under general anesthesia in children, so discomfort during the surgery itself is minimal. Afterward, patients may experience some mild pain or discomfort, which can be easily managed with prescribed pain medication.

Are there any risks or complications associated with otoplasty?

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks of bleeding or infection. Specific to otoplasty is the risk of asymmetry between the ears or a loss of correction which can occur in a delayed fashion.

Will insurance cover the cost of otoplasty?

In most cases, insurance companies consider it as a cosmetic procedure and do not cover its cost. However, it’s always best to check with your insurance company beforehand regarding specific coverage details.

Are the results of otoplasty permanent?

Yes, the results of treatment are generally permanent. Once the ears are reshaped and repositioned, they typically maintain their new appearance over time.

What is the cost of otoplasty?

The cost of otoplasty can vary based on how much the ears need correcting, but it usually falls between $3,000-$7,000. Schedule a personalized consultation with Dr. Spalla to receive a personalized quote.

Experience Philadelphia Facial Plastic Surgery & Medspa

Most people who have treatment done are between the ages of 5-7, right after the ears have finished maturing. However, Dr. Spalla can perform otoplasty no matter how old you are. Otoplasty is recommended if your ears stick out more than 20 mm from your head and at an angle of more than 35 degrees from your occipital scalp (the back portion of your head). You’re also a good candidate if your ears were deformed at birth.