Otoplasty

The ears are considered one of the most artistic parts of the body as they contain so much fine detail that is unique to all of us. Cosmetic ear surgery, or otoplasty, is one of the most complex but rewarding surgeries we do as plastic surgeons. Otoplasty is an all-encompassing term for ear surgery. One of the most common reasons patients seek otoplasty or aesthetic ear surgery is for prominent ears that protrude too far from the head. Often patients will wear their hair down or tuck their ears into a headband to conceal the appearance of their ears. However, there are many other reasons patients will seek an otoplasty, such as ear lobe reduction and ear asymmetry. For many of our patients, it is an issue they have suffered from since childhood, and they often didn’t know that there were options to treat the appearance of their ears.

When performing an otoplasty for prominent ears, it is often referred to as ear pinning, as this is the surgical process of reshaping and bringing back the ears to be placed in a more conventional position in relation to the head. Repositioning and shaping the ear typically makes it less prominent from the front or back. Our talented and highly trained facial plastic surgeons can correct this concern. If you want to learn more about Otoplasty in San Antonio, contact our clinic today.

Ideal Candidate

Most adults in San Antonio who are in good health are good candidates for an otoplasty. For optimal results, we advise that our patients are generally healthy and free of chronic conditions.

Before your otoplasty procedure, you will visit our clinic for an initial consultation. Our team will get to know you, review your medical history, and identify the best surgical strategy to help you meet your goals. We will also ensure you are fully aware of what the surgical procedure entails, that you meet the requirements for the surgery, and that you are prepared with a list of pre and post-operative directions to help facilitate a smooth procedure and recovery.

Procedure

Otoplasty surgery can be done under local anesthesia or under general anesthesia, depending on the specific procedure that is being performed. Procedures such as ear lobe reductions are often done in the office under local anesthesia, while treatment for prominent ears is typically done at the surgery center under general anesthesia to ensure your comfort. When treating prominent ears, our plastic surgeons make an incision in the back of the ear to expose the cartilage. The surgeon carefully reshapes the cartilage without causing unnecessary trauma. Our team then repositions the ear closer to the head while creating a natural smooth contour to your ear. This often entails reshaping the cartilage of the ear to create the detail and contour you desire. Your surgeon will sculpt the ear with various techniques to create and maintain its new shape. If necessary, your plastic surgeon can modify other ear structures as well, such as ear lobe reduction.

Downtime, Rest, and Recovery

After your otoplasty surgery in San Antonio, you will need time to recover. Depending on the specific treatment, your ears may be covered or protected to allow them to heal in the proper position. Following your otoplasty, we recommend that you follow your plastic surgeon’s instructions to ensure the best possible results.

You may need to wear a headband while you sleep to protect your ears from bending or pulling. You should sleep with your head elevated to control any swelling or movement. We strongly urge you to avoid vigorous activity and contact sports following surgery until you have been released from these activities by your surgeon. To monitor your progress and ensure you heal optimally, we will schedule follow-up appointments with you.

Contact

Our clinic has served patients from San Antonio and beyond with various cosmetic and plastic surgery procedures. Our expert team includes some of the top surgeons in the country who are masters in the art of plastic surgery. We are committed to providing our patients with excellent service marked by the highest medical expertise.

Otoplasty will physically change the look of your face and profile. To find out more about otoplasty in San Antonio or to book your consultation, connect with our team today.