It’s completely natural to care about your appearance and want to look your best. If your ears stick out or you’re unhappy with their shape, you might be considering ear surgery. Otoplasty is a popular procedure for people who feel self-conscious about their ears.
Many young people undergo this surgery to avoid bullying or to feel more confident in social situations. Otoplasty can reshape the ears to make them less protruding (ear pinning) and give you a more balanced and natural look.
If you have questions about otoplasty before and after surgery we always greatly encourage our patients to ask away. The following article may help as well to answer these inquiries and calm any worries you may have about your upcoming surgery.
What to Know About Otoplasty
Otoplasty is a surgical procedure that reshapes the ears to improve their appearance using a variety of otoplasty techniques. The surgery helps with the correction of issues like protruding ears, overly large or small ears, and congenital ear deformities.
During the procedure, a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Dahlia Rice will make incisions behind the ear to access the cartilage. They will then reshape or reposition the ear to create a more symmetrical and natural look. See before and after photos to get an idea of what this surgery can achieve.
The surgery typically takes a few hours, and most people can go home the same day.
Who Can Benefit From Otoplasty?
Those with protruding ears
If your ears stick out further than usual, otoplasty can bring them closer to your head and improve your facial balance. Once you have otoplasty performed, the results can help prevent embarrassment and give you more confidence in your appearance.
Those who’ve experienced a traumatic injury affecting their ear appearance
Traumatic injuries can alter the shape or position of the ears, leading to a misshapen appearance. Otoplasty can help restore a more natural ear shape after an injury, allowing you to feel more comfortable and confident.
Those with extra large ears
Some people may feel unhappy with the size of their ears, especially if they are much larger than average. Otoplasty can reduce the size of the ears by reshaping the cartilage, giving them a more proportionate look.
Those with extra small ears
On the other hand, it’s possible that larger ears are desired. Some people may have ears that are too small for their face. Otoplasty ear surgery can enhance the appearance of small ears by reshaping them to make them appear more proportionate to the rest of the face.
Those who’ve had misshapen ears since birth
Some people are born with ears that have an unusual shape or a deformity. Otoplasty is an excellent option to correct these congenital ear deformities and improve the overall shape and appearance of the ears.
What to Know Before and After Otoplasty
Consultation and Setting Expectations
Before undergoing otoplasty, you’ll need to schedule a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon, like Dr. Dahlia Rice, to discuss your goals and determine if you’re a good candidate for surgery. It’s important to have realistic expectations about the results of the procedure.
Preparing for the Procedure
Before the surgery, your surgeon will give you specific instructions about preparing for the procedure. This may include avoiding certain medications or possibly even fasting for a period of time before the surgery.
What to Expect After Surgery
What to Expect After SurgeryAfter surgery, you can expect some swelling and discomfort. Wearing a bandage over your ears for a few days will help protect them during the initial healing phase.
Post-Operative Care and Recovery
After otoplasty surgery, you’ll need to follow your surgeon’s instructions closely to ensure proper healing. You should avoid touching or scratching your ears as this can disrupt the healing process. You’ll also need to keep your ears clean and dry to reduce the risk of infection.
Resuming Normal Activities
While you can return to light activities within a week, you should avoid strenuous exercise for a few weeks. Your ears will gradually heal, and any swelling will subside within a few weeks to months.
Final Results
Otoplasty recovery can take time, but most people are able to enjoy their results once they’ve fully healed. The final shape and appearance of the ears will become more apparent as the swelling goes down.
FAQs: Otoplasty
Is otoplasty surgery permanent?
Yes, otoplasty surgery provides long-lasting results. Once the ears are reshaped, they typically stay in their new position permanently. However, as with any surgical procedure, it’s important to follow the aftercare instructions provided by your surgeon to ensure the best results.
How long does it take to recover from otoplasty?
Recovery from otoplasty usually takes about one to two weeks for the initial healing. However, the full recovery process can take up to a few months. During this time, you’ll need to follow your surgeon’s aftercare instructions closely.
Request a Consultation Appointment
Considering otoplasty surgery in Chicago?
Although it remains one of the less common plastic surgery procedures, thousands of people pursue ear surgery every year with great success. A Chicago otoplasty procedure can improve your appearance and boost your self confidence at the same time.
Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Dahlia Rice can help you decide if this procedure is right for you. Call today to request a consultation appointment and learn more about your options.
