Otoplasty

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

Otoplasty Austin Plastic Surgeon Austin, San Antonio, or West Lake Hills

An otoplasty is a procedure aimed at improving the appearance of the ears through the use of reshaping and restructuring the ear cartilage and tissue. Otoplasties can be reconstructive or cosmetic; the procedure can be used to help treat deformities from birth and trauma-related deformities, as well as to restore symmetry and an improved shape to the ears.

Austin Plastic Surgeon consists of a team of expertly trained staff who are dedicated to bringing a premium experience to Central Texas, helping each patient reach their aesthetic goals.

To schedule your appointment at our Austin, San Antonio, or West Lake Hills location, please fill out our contact form, call (512) 253-2195, or call any of our offices directly:

About Otoplasty

Otoplasties are a type of procedure that restructures and reshapes the ear for aesthetic reasons and to help correct deformities caused by trauma, injury, and birth defects. The shape of the ears can be corrected through methods such as ear pinning, ear reshaping, ear reduction, or reconstruction. (1) Ear pinning sets the ears closer to the head, reducing any abnormal protrusion. Ear reshaping is a process that reshapes the cartilage, correcting any misshapen or irregularly shaped ears. Ear reduction helps reduce the size of large ears, also known as macrotia, and reconstructive otoplasty helps reconstruct the ears to correct any deformities from birth or trauma.

Benefits of an Otoplasty

Otoplasties help address a variety of conditions that patients may have either developed through injuries or congenitally (at birth), making it a very beneficial treatment for those with ear-related concerns. Otoplasties can also treat the following conditions:

  • Microtia: absent or underdeveloped ears
  • Lop Ear: A condition that causes the ears to fold downward and forward
  • Stahl’s Ear: Ears that are either pointed or contain extra creases

Some of the other benefits of otoplasty include a shorter recovery time and permanent results. Any scarring that is left is discreet and barely visible, leaving a natural-looking, long-lasting result that restores your confidence and facial harmony.

Candidates

The best candidates for an otoplasty procedure are those wanting to reshape the ears to correct deformities caused by injury or trauma, or those wanting to correct the ears for cosmetic reasons. Children showing signs of significant ear protrusion or congenital deformities above the age of 5 could be potential candidates for otoplasty if their ears have already reached 90% of their full size. (2) Adults wanting to address concerns such as protruding, asymmetrical, or oversized ears make ideal candidates for this procedure, as well as those suffering from congenital defects such as microtia or lop ear.

All candidates interested in an otoplasty should be in good overall health with no underlying conditions that may impair the healing process after the treatment. Patients who smoke should be prepared to refrain before the procedure and throughout their recovery. Nicotine and tobacco use can halt the healing process and slow down recovery.

Personal Consultation

At Austin Plastic Surgeon, each patient is required to make an appointment for a personal consultation. The purpose of the consultation is to discuss your otoplasty with our providers so we can understand your concerns and treatment goals. Through this conversation, we will be able to fully tailor your procedure, creating a highly customizable experience for each patient. The full cost of the procedure will be discussed with each patient, and any individualized preparation and recovery instructions will be given. Patients should use this time to bring up any questions or concerns they may want addressed before their procedure.

To schedule your consultation at any one of our convenient Central Texas locations, please fill out our contact form or call (512) 253-2195.

Procedure

The procedure starts with anesthesia being administered to ensure the patient remains comfortable. Once this has taken effect, your surgeon will start by creating incisions. These are made in specific locations to help minimize any visible scarring. During the procedure, the surgeon will remove any excess cartilage and reshape the ears to the patient’s preference before using sutures to close the incision. Bandages will then be applied to help protect the treatment site following the procedure. The duration of the procedure can take anywhere between 1-3 hours, depending on the severity of the conditions being treated. (1)

Recovery and Results

Otoplasty Austin Plastic Surgeon Austin, San Antonio, or West Lake Hills

Following the otoplasty, your surgeon will place bandages on the treatment site to protect the ears and promote healing. Patients will likely experience swelling and bruising at the treatment site, but the pain and discomfort can be managed using medications. Patients should refrain from sleeping in any positions that place pressure on the ears and should avoid strenuous activities or intense exercise for the first few weeks.

The majority of the swelling, bruising, and discomfort will subside within the second week of healing. Patients will be able to return to work or school, but should still avoid sports or other activities that may risk causing further injuries or trauma to the ears. The full results of the procedure will take effect 2-3 months after the procedure, once the ears settle into their new shape and position. Any scarring will become barely noticeable as it fades. Under their surgeon’s approval, patients will be able to return to contact sports and other activities as normal.

Cost of an Otoplasty in Texas

The cost of an otoplasty in San Antonio or Austin can depend on several factors, such as the conditions being treated and the ideal outcomes for the patient. The full cost of each patient’s otoplasty will be discussed at the personal consultation. No matter what condition is being treated, each patient can be assured they are getting the most premium service for the most competitive price!

To schedule your consultation and unlock the cost of your customized otoplasty, fill out our contact form or call (512) 253-2195. To learn more about finances, please refer to our pricing page.

FAQ

What is an otoplasty?

An otoplasty is a procedure used to reshape, resize, and reposition the ears to help correct deformities caused by injuries, trauma, or genetics.

What can otoplasty treat?

Otoplasty can be used to help correct protruding, oversized, or asymmetrical ears. Otoplasty can also be used to address lop ear, Stahl’s ear, microtia, or other damages from trauma.

What is the best age for an otoplasty?

Adults of any age can receive an otoplasty treatment, however, children should only receive an otoplasty once their ears have fully developed, around the ages of 5-7 years old. (2)

How do I know if I am a good candidate for an otoplasty?

Ideal candidates for an otoplasty are looking to improve the look and shape of their ears. All potential candidates should have fully developed ears and good health.

How long does the procedure itself take?

The otoplasty can take anywhere between 1-3 hours, depending on what conditions are being treated.

How long is the healing process?

Patients can return to school or work about 2-4 weeks after their procedure. All patients should refrain from strenuous activities or intense physical exercises until approved by their surgeon. The full results of the otoplasty will take effect 2-3 months after the procedure, after the restructured tissue has had a chance to settle.

Is otoplasty painful?

The procedure itself is not painful, as we administer anesthesia to ensure patient comfort. Patients can expect to feel some discomfort during the recovery period, but this can be managed with medication and should subside within the first week.

Are the results permanent?

Yes, the results of an otoplasty are permanent. Your ears will retain their reshaped appearance once they have been repositioned.

Can an otoplasty affect or treat hearing?

An otoplasty does not affect hearing as it only involves reshaping the external tissue and structure of the ear.

Can an otoplasty be performed on only one ear?

Yes, we can perform otoplasties on just one ear to help correct any congenital deformities or trauma-related deformities or to help create more symmetry within the ears.

References

  1. Naumann A. Otoplasty – techniques, characteristics, and risks. GMS Current Topics in Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery. 2008;6:Doc04. Accessed December 13, 2024. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3199845/
  2. European Review for Medical and Pharmacological Sciences . Otoplasty for prominent ear deformity. European Review. Published July 23, 2014. Accessed December 13, 2024. https://www.europeanreview.org/article/7674
  3. Burns HR, Dinis J, Ding Y, Buchanan EP. Seminars in Plastic Surgery: Pediatric Ear Anomalies and Reconstruction. Seminars in Plastic Surgery. 2023;37(04):287-298. doi:https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0043-1775888