Ear surgery, or otoplasty, is usually done to set prominent ears back closer to the head or reduce the size of large ears. Otoplasty is most commonly performed on children and teens, but some young adults also seek the surgery.

Who is a Candidate?  |  Intended Result  |  Procedure Description  |  Recuperation and Healing  |  Other Options  |  Insurance Guidelines  |  Note

Who is a Candidate?

People who:

• Have ears that stick out too far from the side of their head.


• Have ears with an unusual or undesirable shape.

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Intended Result

• The ears will have normal folds and shape with normal protrusion from the side of the head.

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Procedure Description

• The operation is usually performed on an outpatient basis under sedation and local or general anesthesia.


• The ears are usually bandaged with a dressing that wraps around the head in a turban-like fashion for several days.


• Initial mild postoperative discomfort is easily controlled with oral medication.


• The procedure is appropriate beginning at age 5 or 6, or at any time thereafter.

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Recuperation and Healing

• The ears usually look "normal" within 10 to 20 days.


• Usually, a thin stocking cap or head band is worn at night for three weeks after the first dressing is removed to protect the ears.


• Contact sports should be avoided for about a month.

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Other Options

• Any facial procedure that is desired or appropriate would enhance the result.

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Insurance Guidelines

• This procedure is usually not covered by insurance. Our staff can assist you in making that determination.

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Note

The specific risks and the suitability of this procedure for a given individual can be determined only at the time of consultation. All surgical procedures have some degree of risk. Minor complications that do not affect the outcome occur occasionally. Major complications are unusual.
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