What is Otoplasty?

Otoplasty is a cosmetic procedure to correct abnormalities of the ear. Many patients-often beginning from childhood-are unhappy with the shape or size of their ears. For some, they stick out too far, and for others they are simply too large. In some cases, individuals are born with ear defects, while others may have a deformity caused by a trauma to the ear. Whatever the case may be, otoplasty can correct unwanted cosmetic issues of the ears.

How Otoplasty is Performed

Tailored to your specific anatomy and desired changes, otoplasty with Dr. Marcus represents rapid, transformative results. He begins with an incision that is hidden behind or inside the ear. Excess soft tissue or cartilage causing the ear to protrude is easily accessed and precisely removed. If normal creases or folds are missing from the ear, they can be re-constructed by molding the cartilage with permanent sutures.

In some cases, a combination of techniques is required to attain the desired result. As a double board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Marcus takes great care not only cosmetically, but also from a functional perspective. As one of the top ENT specialists in Southern California, Dr. Marcus routinely delivers among the best ear surgery Manhattan Beach and Redondo Beach has to offer.

Are You a Candidate for Otoplasty?

As a rapid outpatient procedure, otoplasty can be performed on virtually anyone who is unhappy with the appearance of his or her ears. Candidates for otoplasty usually experience one of more of the following:

Overly large ears
Ears that stick out too far
Ears that appear asymmetrical in some way
Other cosmetic defects, such as cauliflower ears
Earlobes that are torn or otherwise misshapen

Otoplasty for Children

Otoplasty can be performed at any age, so long as the ears have reached their full size, (usually any time after age 5) and actually is a rather popular procedure with children. Many children and teenagers undergo undue teasing and ridicule, just because their ears are "larger than normal" or "stick out too far," resulting in embarrassment and potential low self-esteem.

Having otoplasty done at a young age is highly beneficial for two reasons:

The cartilage is extremely pliable, thereby allowing greater molding and shaping capacity
The child will experience less potential teasing and embarrassment the earlier the procedure is done

While otoplasty is a relatively simple surgery, it can produce a dramatic effect on patients' self-esteem, making a world of difference in their day-to-day lives.

Recovery and Healing After Otoplasty

Immediately following your otoplasty procedure, you will have special bandages wrapped around your ears holding them in their new position. It is common for patients to experience moderate swelling and bruising following an ear surgery, so it is important to avoid any rigorous activity for the first week. Patients are also advised to recline but keep their head elevated to minimize any discomfort. Approximately one week after the procedure Dr. Marcus will remove the bandages and inspect your ears. Although recovery is different for each patient and may vary, you can expect to return to work and any routine light activity after about one week. Again, every otoplasty patient is unique, but typically your final results will be seen after two weeks.

Consultation

While the information in this website may be helpful, it will never fully relate facial plastic surgery to you. If you are interested in a facial procedure, please call our office and one of our representatives will schedule your consultation.

Otoplasty