OVERVIEW
While most people may not think about the appearance of their ears, there are a significant number of people whose ears are a source of embarrassment and dissatisfaction. In those cases, patients should visit Houston cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Sumpter, to consider ear surgery. Also known as otoplasty or ear reshaping, Dr. Sumpter can dramatically transform overly large, as well as protruding, misshapen or misaligned ears for fabulous results. Dr. Sumpter will make small incisions to manipulate cartilage and bone to reshape and repair a patient's ears. This is a safe surgery that can be performed on young children with consistent outcomes.
BEST CANDIDATES
Our office works with children as young as age 5 so that their ears can be reshaped prior to the start of elementary school. However, ear surgery can be performed on individuals of any age. Good candidates are men or women who demonstrate:
- Self-confidence issues because of the size or shape of their ears
- Protruding ears that stick out
- Large or oversized ears
- Under developed ear cartilage
- Torn earlobes due to heavy jewelry or ear trauma
WHAT TO EXPECT
Otoplasty begins with an incision behind the ear so that the cartilage can be exposed. This cartilage is then removed and/or reshaped until the ear takes on a normal appearance. Excess skin is removed and if the ear shows protrusion, our surgeon will reposition it closer to the head and firmly secure it with non-removable sutures. There are many variables that are used to help redefine the ears. The goal of this surgery is to produce a natural looking result that will be long lasting for the patient.
RECOVERY FROM EAR SURGERY
Swelling and bruising can be minimal after otoplasty. The swelling and bruising will start to resolve during the first couple of weeks after surgery, although this will vary between patients. A head dressing is applied immediately after surgery and removed at the first office visit. An elastic headband must be worn for several more weeks for protection. Patients must avoid strenuous activity for a minimum of 1-2 months following surgery. Children will need to be monitored closely so that they do not pick or scratch at their ears during the healing phase.
EXPECTED COST
Otoplasty fees will vary by patient depending on the surgical case. The average fees for ear reshaping start at about $3,000, but can go as high as $4,750 for more for complex cases that require reconstruction.
