Introducing Otoplasty: Cosmetic Ear Surgery

Plenty of people have considered getting a rhinoplasty – but have you considered what an Otoplasty can do for you? Don’t know what an Otoplasty is? Then perk up your ears, and get ready to listen to (or read, rather) some useful information!

What is Otoplasty?

Some people refer to Otoplasty as “rhinoplasty for the ears” – and this description isn’t too far off. Otoplasty involves cosmetic ear surgery with the purpose of changing the shape, position, or size of the ears. Just like rhinoplasty can give you the nose that best matches your face, this kind of cosmetic surgery can give you ears that better suit your overall silhouette and facial structure.

This kind of procedure can be done with either general anesthesia, or specified anesthesia, depending on how extensive the changes desired are. The procedures can involve the removal of cartilage and skin (if your ears are, say, too large) or the folding and stitching of cartilage in order to change the position and angle of the ears.

Why Get Otoplasty?

Just like a rhinoplasty, there are plenty of different reasons to get an otoplasty. Generally, these reasons have to do with displeasure as to how your ears look in relation to the rest of your facial structure. This could mean that you think your ears stick out too far from your head, or that you feel your ears look too large. It could also be that you have one ear that is a different size than the other.

Otoplasty could also be used to correct changes to your ears that you disliked from previous surgery, cosmetic or otherwise. It can also be used to help repair damage to your ears from injuries, such as torn cartilage or skin.

Is Otoplasty Right For Me?

It is true that otoplasties are most effective when done on younger children, below the age of six. At this stage, the ear cartilage hasn’t fully hardened, and it is much easier to perform surgical adjustments to it. Younger children are also much less likely to remember getting the surgery. However, it’s a myth that otoplasty is only performed on children. No matter your age, you can benefit from this cosmetic surgery.

You should, of course, be ready to go through with the surgery itself, and the recovery period. Generally, otoplasty can be finished within only two to three hours, during which you may be, as mentioned, fully or partially anesthetized.

Once the surgery is done, you’ll just need to wear a head dressing for about a week after surgery – so you may want to schedule your procedure for when you have some free time. However, within five days you will be fine to head back to work.

As long as you keep your dressing on, risks from otoplasties are fairly minor. Some patients might report an allergic reaction to the gauze, or issues with stitches if they remove the gauze too early. Some patients also report minor irritation, which generally vanishes after a short period of time.

You should also consult with your plastic surgery office to see if the cost of otoplasty is right for you. Generally, a full Otoplasty costs $8,000. However, minor ear lobe adjustments can cost only $400.

Interested in Otoplasty Near You?

Got more questions about otoplasty cost, and otoplasty recovery? Want to get more information on what to expect for otoplasty before and after? Looking to schedule a consultation for otoplasty in Toronto? Then make sure to contact us as soon as possible to book your consultation today! Get ready to say goodbye to misaligned and protruding ears and say hello to the new you.