Otoplasty, commonly referred to as “ear pinning surgery,” is designed to make the ears more symmetrical, balanced, and harmonious in relation to your facial proportions. This procedure is often performed to repair an ear deformity, correct protruding ears, or improve disproportion between the ears. While usually not medically necessary, dominant or asymmetrical ears can greatly affect self-confidence and/or elicit teasing from peers. Dr. Ira Savetsky, a board-certified aesthetic plastic surgeon fellowship-trained in facial procedures, can identify the most optimal way to achieve your goals. Otoplasty is considered very rewarding, and is one of few cosmetic surgeries that can be safely performed on both adults and children at least five years old.
Is Otoplasty Right for Me?
Although large, protruding, or misshapen ears typically do not affect your hearing or present any medical concerns, patients may consider a surgical procedure like otoplasty when the size and/or shape of the ears begin to harm their social or psychological health. In general, good candidates for otoplasty are generally:
- At least five years of age, or have reached the majority of ear maturation
- Bothered by ears that stick out, appear too large, or seem disproportionate
- Affected by an ear deformity or injury
- Healthy and a non-smoker, with no unmanaged medical conditions
- Realistic about their expectations for the final outcome
Dr. Ira Savetsky will listen to your concerns during a consultation and formulate a custom treatment plan for you (or your child). He will also review your medical history and ask you about your health and overall goals to determine whether otoplasty is the best facial plastic surgery procedure for your needs.
How is the Otoplasty Procedure Performed?
During your consultation, Dr. Savetsky will ask you about your hopes for the outcome and develop a treatment plan to help you achieve the results you envision. The procedure can treat an ear deformity, pin the ears back, or generally make the ears more symmetrical and balanced. Otoplasty is usually performed in an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation. Incisions are often hidden behind the ear, although the exact pattern will depend on the nature of the corrections desired. Dr. Savetsky will always conceal incisions within areas of natural anatomic transition whenever possible. Depending on your goals, Dr. Savetsky can recreate missing folds of the ear, recontour the cartilage, or make the ears lie flatter against the sides of the head. He will go over the most ideal techniques to achieve your desired outcome at the time of your consultation.
What Can I Expect During the Recovery Period After Otoplasty?
Patients who have undergone otoplasty can generally return to their normal routines within 7 to 10 days. Recovery is considered very tolerable compared to other cosmetic procedures like a facelift or rhinoplasty, which may require a more extensive period of downtime. Over-the-counter pain medications can usually manage any discomfort, although pain is often described as mild. Dr. Savetsky will provide detailed aftercare instructions regarding activity restrictions, incision care, and the approximate post-operative healing timeline. Sleeping with the head slightly elevated above chest level, as well as wearing bandages for the amount of time prescribed by Dr. Savetsky, can often help reduce swelling and accelerate the healing process.
How Much Does Otoplasty Cost?
The cost of otoplasty is personalized according to the unique details of your treatment plan, such as the surgical technique(s) utilized, the complexity of your procedure, and your individual needs. While our team will be able to provide you with an accurate cost estimate during your consultation, the general cost of otoplasty in New York City ranges from $10,000 to $25,000. Patient financing is available via CareCredit® for qualified patients who are interested in paying for their procedure in smaller installments rather than a lump sum. Don’t hesitate to contact our team to learn more about the cost of otoplasty, or our financing options.
Disproportionate ears can reduce self-esteem, but treatment from a board-certified aesthetic plastic surgeon can be a safe and predictable way to reclaim your confidence and achieve more facial balance. Contact Dr. Ira Savetsky to schedule a consultation or to speak with a friendly member of our office.