Otoplasty

Consultations offered at our three convenient locations in Austin, TX, San Antonio, TX and Westlake Hills, TX

Otoplasty Austin, TX

Ear Surgery is a broad term that encompasses several surgeries that are all intended to repair trauma to the ear or improve the aesthetic appearance of the ears. The most common reason individuals seek surgical intervention for their ear is to alter the appearance of protruding ears. This procedure is most commonly performed on small children who are self conscious about the appearance of their ears. They may grow their hair long; wear hat or other maneuvers to camouflage their ears. Adults may also benefit from this procedure, giving them more freedom with hairstyles and improving self-esteem.

Ear Surgery can also include repair of one ear lobe that can happen when earrings tear through the lobe. The ear lobe can tear because an earring is pulled on and tears the lobe or simply the weight of the earring slowly expands the pierced hole over time.

Procedure

Before your surgery in Austin, your surgeon will administer anesthesia so that your ear procedure is pain free. Next, he will make an incision right behind the ear in a natural crease. This will help ensure that the resulting scar is nearly invisible. He will then shape the cartilage of the ear to your desired result and secure it with sutures. The results are almost immediately noticeable and the scars are well hidden.

Preparation

There are a few steps you can take to prepare for your otoplasty to ensure a smoother recovery in Austin. During the weeks leading up to your surgery, you will need to stop taking certain medications or supplements that may interfere with bleeding. Our team will provide you with more information based on your current medications. You will also need to ask for at least one week off from work so you can spend the first few days recovering. You may also want to ask someone to drive you home from your procedure.

If you are a smoker, you must also quit smoking several weeks before your surgery and refrain from smoking during recovery. Nicotine can restrict the body’s natural healing processes and lead to a number of complications, so it is best to avoid it.

Surgery Duration

Generally, most patients in Austin recover from an otoplasty after about 6-8 weeks and can return to their normal routine. However, full recovery can take upwards of 3 months in certain cases, so make sure to follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions carefully.

Visible Scarring

There will be small scars behind your ears, but they will be hardly noticeable. This is because your surgeon will conceal the scar in the natural crease between the ear and the scalp dur the ear surgery in Austin. While this incision will appear slightly raised and pink immediately after surgery, it will gradually flatten and fade to a lighter color, blending in with the crease.

Risks

Like any form of surgery in Austin, there are some risks associated with an otoplasty. As a result, it is important to weigh the potential risks and benefits of the procedure. Some of the risks of otoplasty surgery include but are not limited to:

  • Bleeding
  • Infection
  • Ear asymmetry
  • Changes in skin sensation
  • Adverse anesthesia reactions

For this reason, it is important to have your otoplasty performed by one of our experienced surgeons. Board certification requires extensive training in the best plastic surgery techniques, which helps reduce the overall risk of complications.

Insurance

Most health insurance providers in Austin will only cover an otoplasty if it is being done to help solve a functional problem, such as a hearing impairment or congenital abnormality. However, if it is being done strictly for cosmetic purposes, insurance may not cover the procedure. If you are thinking of having an otoplasty and want to know if it will be covered by your plan, contact your insurance provider for more details.

Ideal Candidates

  • The cartilage in the ear must be fully developed, usually around age five to six.
  • You are self conscious about the size and/or shape of your ears.
  • Your ears are not symmetrical.
  • Ear deformity from earrings
  • Traumatic ear defects
  • You are in good health.
  • You have realistic expectations.

Consultation

  • Patients will present for their evaluation where they will meet with our staff
  • To determine the best treatment, our team will do a medical history and physical exam.
  • The treatment options will be discussed with you that can help you achieve you aesthetic goals
  • The risks and benefits of the surgery will also be discussed during your consultation.
  • Then you will have an opportunity to talk about scheduling and fees with the patient care coordinator that will assist you throughout the process.

Contact

Restoring your confidence could be possible with otoplasty surgery in Austin. This procedure can give you the ear look that you desire. Contact our team to discuss your surgical options.