Ear Surgery (Otoplasty)
Performed by Dr. Elliott in Atlanta GA
Self-consciousness about the appearance of the ears often begins early in life and can persist throughout adolescence and adulthood. While many cosmetic concerns about the ears (such as asymmetry, overly large or small ears, or forward-facing ears that protrude father from the sides of the head than desired) are genetic and don’t naturally resolve on their own, ear surgery with double board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Franklyn Elliott can help patients of nearly any age to improve the appearance of their ears and restore their confidence.
Ear surgery will vary based on the patient’s unique anatomy and the expected outcome, whether the goal is to make the ears look closer to the side of the head, smaller, or more desirably shaped.. In most cases, an incision is made in the back of each ear, and the underlying cartilage is reshaped or reduced in order to enhance the appearance. When they heal, these incisions are typically very subtle. If incisions in the front of the ear are necessary, they are typically made within the natural folds of the ear for a naturally discreet appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions about Otoplasty
Am I a good candidate for cosmetic ear surgery?
Unlike most plastic surgeries, otoplasty can be performed on children as well as adults, because the ears reach near their full size and shape at an early age. Many children are eligible for ear surgery around age five, and in fact, the procedure can be easier to perform on children because their cartilage is still highly flexible. However, the surgery is commonly performed for adults as well, with very high success.
How much scarring will I have after ear surgery?
Because of the natural folds of the ear as well as the rather small incisions that can be used, otoplasty typically leaves minimal scarring. The scars are typically on the back of the ear, an area with very limited visibility. When incisions in the front of the ear are needed to achieve the desired results, they are made as discreetly as possible within the natural folds of the ear. However, plastic surgery scarring is also influenced by how well the body heals the incision, so following all post-surgical instructions is crucial to each patient’s long-term outcome.
How long does it take to recover from otoplasty?
In the first days after surgery, otoplasty patients will need to have dressings in place to allow their incisions to rest and to support their ears’ new shape. While every person heals at their own pace, most can return to work, school, or their other day-to-day activities around two weeks after cosmetic ear surgery.
