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Expert Ear Reshaping for All Ages

At Athēnix, we understand that prominent or misshapen ears can significantly impact self-esteem, especially for children who may face teasing. Our board-certified plastic surgeons bring extensive training in facial and reconstructive surgery to every otoplasty procedure.

With experience performing delicate ear surgeries and a commitment to achieving symmetrical, natural-looking results, we help patients in Brentwood feel more confident about their appearance. Our AAAHC-certified surgical centers provide the advanced technology, safety protocols, and compassionate care essential for successful outcomes in patients of all ages.

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What Is Otoplasty?

Otoplasty, commonly called ear pinning or ear reshaping surgery, is a surgical procedure that corrects the size, shape, or position of the ears. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, otoplasty can address protruding ears, oversized ears, ear asymmetry, or deformities from injury or congenital conditions.

The procedure is one of the few cosmetic surgeries commonly performed on children, typically after age five when the ears have reached approximately 90% of their adult size.

Benefits of Otoplasty Surgery

Patients who choose otoplasty at Athēnix experience numerous improvements, such as:

  • Reduces the prominence of protruding ears
  • Creates more defined and natural ear folds
  • Improves ear symmetry when one ear differs from the other
  • Corrects ear deformities from injury or birth conditions
  • Enhances facial balance and proportions
  • Boosts self-confidence, especially in children and adolescents
  • Provides permanent results that maintain their appearance over time
  • Allows for more hairstyle flexibility without needing to cover ears
  • Addresses concerns before they impact social development in children
  • Creates natural-looking contours that don't appear surgically altered

Are You a Candidate for Otoplasty?

Otoplasty may be right for you or your child if:

  • Ears protrude noticeably from the head
  • One ear is positioned differently than the other
  • Ears are disproportionately large for the face
  • Previous ear injury caused deformity or asymmetry
  • Congenital conditions affect ear shape or position
  • The patient is at least five years old (for children)
  • There are realistic expectations about surgical outcomes
  • Overall health is good without conditions impairing healing
  • The patient (if a child) understands and cooperates with the procedure
  • Emotional or social concerns exist related to ear appearance

Why Choose Athēnix for Your Otoplasty?

When you select Athēnix for otoplasty surgery, you benefit from:

  • Specialized Surgical Skill: Our board-certified plastic surgeons have completed extensive training at prestigious institutions and possess the technical precision required for delicate ear surgery. They understand the complex anatomy of the ear and use meticulous techniques to create symmetrical, natural results.
  • Experience With All Ages: We regularly perform otoplasty on both children and adults, understanding the unique considerations for each age group including gentle communication with young patients and modified anesthesia protocols.
  • Customized Surgical Approach: Every ear is unique, and we tailor our surgical technique to your specific anatomy and concerns rather than using a standardized approach. This customization ensures results that look naturally proportionate.
  • Child-Friendly Environment: For pediatric patients, our staff creates a welcoming, reassuring atmosphere that helps children feel comfortable and safe. We work closely with parents to ensure everyone feels prepared and confident.
  • Comprehensive Care: From initial consultation through complete healing, our dedicated patient care teams provide attentive support, answering questions and ensuring smooth recovery for patients of all ages.

What to Expect Before, During, and After Otoplasty

Consultation and Cost

Your otoplasty day starts with a comprehensive consultation. Your surgeon will examine the ears, assess symmetry and proportion, discuss concerns and goals, and review medical history.

For pediatric patients, we'll ensure your child feels comfortable and answer questions at an age-appropriate level. We'll take photographs for planning and medical records. Your surgeon will explain the surgical technique and what results you can expect. 

Procedure Steps

On surgery day, patients arrive at our AAAHC-certified surgical center where our caring staff prepares them for the procedure. Otoplasty typically takes one to two hours. Children usually receive general anesthesia, while adults may have the option of local anesthesia with sedation. 

Recovery and Results Timeline

Most patients go home the same day with detailed aftercare instructions and pain medication if needed. You'll wear a protective headband or bandage continuously for the first week to protect your ears and maintain their new position. According to the Mayo Clinic, discomfort is typically mild and well-controlled with over-the-counter pain medication. Expect some swelling and possible bruising that improves over the first two weeks.

Sutures are usually removed or dissolve within one to two weeks. After the initial bandage is removed, you'll typically wear a soft headband at night for several weeks to protect the ears during sleep. Children can usually return to school within one to two weeks, though they should avoid contact sports and activities that could impact the ears for four to six weeks. Adults return to work within five to seven days and resume full activities including exercise at four to six weeks.

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Types of Otoplasty Procedures

  • Ear Pinning: Repositions protruding ears closer to the head by reshaping cartilage and using sutures to maintain the new position.
  • Ear Reduction: Reduces the overall size of disproportionately large ears by removing cartilage and skin.
  • Ear Augmentation: Addresses underdeveloped ears or ears with missing structures using cartilage grafts or other techniques.
  • Earlobe Repair: Corrects torn, stretched, or damaged earlobes from injury, gauges, or heavy earrings.

Otoplasty FAQ

What age is best for otoplasty in children?

Will otoplasty scars be visible?

Is otoplasty painful?

Can otoplasty results be reversed?

Will my child's ears look natural after otoplasty?

What age is best for otoplasty in children?

Otoplasty can be performed once the ears have reached approximately 90% of their adult size, typically around age five or six. Many parents choose to have the procedure done before their child starts school to prevent potential teasing. However, otoplasty can be successfully performed at any age.

Will otoplasty scars be visible?

Incisions are carefully placed behind the ear in the natural crease where the ear meets the head, making scars virtually invisible. With proper healing and care, scars typically fade to thin, barely noticeable lines that are well-hidden by the ear's position.

Is otoplasty painful?

Most patients describe mild to moderate discomfort rather than significant pain. Children and adults typically manage any discomfort well with over-the-counter pain medication. The ears may feel sore and tender for several days, similar to the sensation after sleeping on your ear wrong.

Can otoplasty results be reversed?

While otoplasty provides permanent results, revision surgery is technically possible if desired, though it's rarely requested. Most patients are highly satisfied with their results and the improved confidence that follows.

Will my child's ears look natural after otoplasty?

Yes. When performed by experienced surgeons, otoplasty creates natural-looking ear contours and positioning. The goal is to make the ears blend harmoniously with facial features, not to create a "surgical" appearance.

Schedule Your Otoplasty Consultation at Athēnix in Brentwood

Contact Athēnix today to schedule a consultation with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons in Brentwood. Whether for yourself or your child, we'll evaluate the ear structure, discuss your concerns, and create a personalized surgical plan to achieve natural, balanced results.

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