Stop Hiding Protruding Ears: What You Need to Know About Otoplasty

Do you hide your ears under hats, hoods or scarves due to them sticking out or having a misshapen appearance? Otoplasty, commonly known as ear pinning surgery, is a cosmetic procedure designed to correct protruding, prominent or misshapen ears. It is an effective solution for individuals who feel self-conscious about the appearance of their ears and seek to improve their overall facial harmony and confidence. Here is what you need to know about otoplasty and whether it may be right for you.

Purpose of Otoplasty

Otoplasty aims to reshape, reposition or reduce the size of prominent ears to create a more balanced and symmetrical appearance. This procedure is not limited to correcting protruding ears but can also address various ear-related concerns, such as:

• Protruding Ears: Otoplasty can pin back ears that stick out prominently from the head, reducing their forward projection and bringing them closer to the skull.
• Ear Size and Shape: It can also address concerns related to oversized or asymmetrical ears, including reshaping the ear cartilage to achieve a more proportional and natural appearance.
• Ear Deformities: Otoplasty can correct congenital deformities, such as lop ear (where the top of the ear folds downward) or cupped ear (where the outer edge is curved inward).

Otoplasty is typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the individual’s age and preferences. While otoplasty is often performed on children after their ears are completely developed, it can also be performed on teens and adults who want to change their ear appearance.

Each otoplasty surgery is tailored to the specific needs of the patient, but there are common techniques that are used to reshape or resize the ears. The surgery usually involves the following steps:

• Incisions: Dr. Shuaib makes inconspicuous incisions behind the ear or within the natural creases to minimize visible scarring.
• Cartilage Reshaping: Depending on the desired correction, Dr. Shuaib reshapes or trims the cartilage to achieve the desired ear contour.
• Repositioning: Excess skin might be removed, and the ear is repositioned closer to the head. Sutures are used to secure the cartilage and maintain the new shape.
• Closing Incisions: Once the reshaping is complete, the incisions are meticulously closed with sutures.

The final results of otoplasty gradually become more apparent as swelling diminishes over the following days and weeks. Most individuals can resume normal activities within a week or two, although strenuous activities and contact sports should be avoided for a few weeks to allow for complete healing.

Dallas Otoplasty Plastic Surgeon

A consultation with Dr. Stefan Stuaib, who is a dual board-certified facial plastic surgeon, is essential to discuss individual goals, expectations and the specific details of the procedure. Dr. Shuaib will evaluate the ear structure, discuss realistic outcomes and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Otoplasty is a safe and effective procedure that can significantly improve the appearance of protruding or misshapen ears, boosting self-confidence and enhancing facial harmony. For individuals bothered by the appearance of their ears, otoplasty offers a transformative solution, allowing them to feel more comfortable and confident in their appearance. If you want to explore otoplasty for prominent ears, contact our team at Dallas Facial Plastic Surgery. Call our office to schedule your otoplasty consultation with Dr. Stefan Shuaib.