Otoplasty

Conveniently located to serve NYC, Pomona, and Rockland County

Ear surgery for children or adults can set prominent ears back closer to the head and reduce the size of large ears. Surgery may also be helpful for “lop ear,” “cupped ear” and “shell ear,” large or stretched earlobes, and lobes with creases and wrinkles. The procedure lasts from two to three hours and may be performed in a hospital, office-based facility, or an outpatient surgery center under general or local anesthesia.

Am I a Good Candidate for Otoplasty?

The best candidates for otoplasty are healthy individuals who want to correct the shape or size of their ears. The procedure is safe for people as young as 5 years old. At this age, the ears have reached 90 percent of their adult size and are allowed for cosmetic surgery. A parent or guardian is required to accompany and supervise patients who are minors.

Otoplasty can also be considered by patients who have misshapen ears due to a birth defect or injury. Before undergoing the procedure, patients must have a BMI of 30 or lower.

People with medical conditions that can complicate the healing process may not be considered for an otoplasty. Consult with your specialist before considering the procedure.

Your Otoplasty Consultation

An otoplasty consultation begins with a discussion of the patient’s appearance goals and complete medical history. The patient must be ready to take a few lab tests to ensure eligibility for the procedure.

Once the patient is deemed eligible for an otoplasty, the surgeon will discuss surgical techniques to help the patient or guardian visualize the possible results.

At the end of the consultation, special instructions will be provided to help the patient prepare for the procedure. Patients should feel free to ask all questions before the procedure to confirm and gain confidence in their decision to undergo otoplasty. Since results are different for everyone, it is highly recommended to set realistic expectations.

The Procedure

The procedure will begin with administering anesthesia. Depending on Dr. Glassman’s assessment during the consultation, general or local anesthesia may be used.

Once the anesthesia has taken effect, the surgeon will create the incisions necessary to improve the size and shape of the ears. Dr. Glassman hides the incisions within the natural folds of the ear.

After the procedure is complete, incisions will be closed with sutures. A dressing will be applied to prepare the patient for the recovery period.

The Recovery Process

Initial results are seen immediately after an otoplasty, though they will change and settle in time as swelling fades. Avoid strenuous activities, especially contact sports, during the recovery period. When sleeping, patients must lie on their backs and avoid putting pressure on the ears.

Complete recovery is expected in six weeks after the procedure. After six weeks, patients can resume their normal lifestyle.

Contact Us to Learn More

To learn more about otoplasty in NYC, contact Glassman Plastic Surgery at 845-354-7878 and schedule a consultation. Dr. Glassman will be available to assess your appearance concerns and perform the optimal procedure for your aesthetic goals.