If you’re unhappy with the appearance of your ears, whether they are too prominent, in a position you don’t like, or you regret past piercings, ear surgery can effectively resolve your concerns, with minimal risk or downtime.
What is ear surgery?
Ear surgery, also known as otoplasty, improves the appearance of the ears, addressing shape, size, prominence, position, ear lobes, and other concerns. Other ear surgeries involve reconstructing or repairing ears. These ear surgeries can resolve trauma to the ear from a dog bite, accident or earring snag, and it can also fully reshape or reconstruct an ear that is too small or otherwise unusually shaped.
Prominent or protruding ears requires a precise, exact approach from a surgeon who is comfortable with the advanced techniques a proper otoplasty requires. The purpose of ear surgery is to make the ears less noticeable or unusual looking. The work of the surgeon must result in completely natural, perfectly-shaped ears that no longer draw attention away from your face and other features.
Who is a candidate for ear surgery?
Ear surgery is for men and women whose ears are concerning them, and who would like to improve the appearance of their ears or earlobes. Ideal candidates should meet the following requirements:
- Are generally in good health
- Do not smoke
- Have realistic expectations about what ear surgery results
- Do not have a history of severe scarring
Recovery after ear surgery
You will be able to return home with a friend or family member a few hours after your surgery. Your ears will be bandaged for a couple of days. Expect some discomfort, swelling and bruising, and itching for about three weeks. Pain medication such as Tylenol can be taken to help with this.
It’s important not to touch the incisions or remove bandages too early, as this could damage your results. Sleep on your back with your head elevated for at least the first week, ideally three weeks, while your ears heal.
Most patients are able to return to work or school after about a week. You will not be able to use earbuds for at least one month. Also be careful during this time while putting your phone to your ear. Wait until Dr. Cheng gives the okay before exercising or playing sports. Most people return to work or school in a week, but there should be no participation in sports or exercise until approved by Dr. Cheng.
Cost of ear surgery
The cost of otoplasty varies from patient to patient depending on what type of procedure is required to achieve your desired outcome.
The complexity of the procedure will determine the cost. After your consultation with Dr. Cheng, your surgical plan will be created, and this will include the exact price for your procedure.
Risks and complications
Like any surgical procedure, there are risks involved, such as bleeding, infection, blood clots, pain, and anesthesia risks. However, ear surgery is generally considered a relatively safe surgery.
Before your procedure, we will go over your surgery with you in detail to ensure you fully understand what it entails and what the most likely risks and complications are, such as unfavorable scarring or asymmetry.
With board-certified facial plastic surgeons who specialize in procedures like ear surgery, your chance of complications are greatly reduced.
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