Otoplasty (Ear Reshaping) Cleveland and Columbus

Otoplasty, commonly referred to as ear reshaping surgery, is designed to correct ears that protrude or appear misshapen due to natural anatomical differences. By adjusting the position, shape, or size of the ears, otoplasty can create better facial balance and a more harmonious appearance.

At The J. Parry Clinics for Facial Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics, double board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Jim Parry performs otoplasty for both children and adults seeking to improve the shape or prominence of their ears.

This procedure is often performed for children before they begin school, helping prevent teasing or unwanted attention related to prominent ears. Adults may also choose otoplasty if they were unable to address ear concerns earlier in life. In either case, the goal is to achieve natural-looking results that bring the ears into better proportion with the rest of the face.

Otoplasty Goals

• Prevent children from receiving unnecessary ridicule and social embarrassment
• Improve self-esteem and confidence
• Reshape and reduce overly large ears
• Create balance and harmony to the face

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Ideal Candidates for Ear Pinning (Otoplasty) Surgery

Otoplasty may be recommended for children or adults who are unhappy with the appearance or position of their ears. The procedure is commonly performed once the ears have reached near full development, which typically occurs around age five or six.

You may be a good candidate for otoplasty if you:

• Have ears that protrude noticeably from the head
• Have ears that appear overly large or asymmetrical
• Have misshapen ears due to genetics or developmental differences
• Are bothered by teasing or self-conscious about ear appearance
• Are in generally good health and have realistic expectations for surgical results

During your consultation, Dr. Parry will evaluate the structure of the ears and discuss the most appropriate approach for achieving balanced, natural-looking results.

Preparing for Otoplasty

• The surgeon will review your medical history during the initial consultation. He/ she will look for medical conditions, in particular for ear infections.
• Talk to your surgeon about medications you are taking and any surgeries that you may have had prior.
• The surgeon will examine your ears to assess the size, shape, position, and overall symmetry. They may also take photographs
• Discuss your expectations with the surgeon to understand what can and cannot be achieved through the surgery
• Your surgeon may perform otoplasty at an outpatient facility or a hospital.
• Local anesthesia is administered to adult patients. General anesthesia can be given to younger patients.
• Your surgeon chooses an otoplasty technique depending on the specific correction needed. The technique decides the incision spot. Your surgeon may mark incisions either:
  • At the back of the ears, or
  • In the inner folds of the ears
• The surgeon may remove some skin and cartilage if they are in excess. The cartilage will then be secured and stitched with internal stitches.

In cases where cartilage or skin is not removed, the surgeon makes an incision on the rear of the ears. They will then make stitches to secure the outer ear to the required position.

Incisions may leave a thin scar, which is likely to fade over time.

• Your surgeon may take 1 to 2 hours to complete the surgery.

What to Expect After the Procedure?

• A dressing will be applied over the ears. This will be replaced with a protective headband after several weeks.
• Your doctor will advise you to avoid sleeping on the side to prevent pressure on the ears. The pressure can pull the ears forward. You will also be advised to wear buttoned shirts with loose collars.
• Your doctor will remove stitches after a specified time if they are not of the self-dissolving kind. He/ she will advise the appropriate time for resuming your daily routine.

FAQs

• How much downtime can I expect?
  Most patients can return to work or school in one week. Avoid strenuous activity for 2 weeks.
• What age can a child have an otoplasty?
  Normally an otoplasty is performed between the age of 5 and 6 when the ear is fully developed, before they enter school.
• Can adults have otoplasty?
  Yes, Otoplasty can be performed on adults as well as children over the age of 5 or 6.
• Will insurance cover otoplasty?
  Otoplasty is often considered to be cosmetic in nature, but in some circumstances, it is covered by insurance
• Have more questions?
  During your consultation, Dr. Parry will be able to discuss a Cleveland otoplasty in greater detail. Contact us today to schedule your Cleveland facial plastic surgery consultation.

Schedule a Consultation

Contact our office today to schedule a consultation for your otoplasty in Cleveland. Dr. Parry is a skilled and experienced facial plastic surgeon who focuses on providing our patients with natural-looking results.

Your Otoplasty will be performed by Dr. Jim Parry at his clinic in Mayfield Heights, OH located just outside of Cleveland.

Always trust your face to a double board certified, fellowship trained facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon