Finding the best otoplasty surgeon takes time and research, but knowing what to look for before signing any contract is essential. Cosmetic ear surgery is a major procedure and can significantly impact your self-esteem or that of younger patients with protruding or oversized ears.

It is important to learn what factors to consider when seeking a surgeon for your ear reshaping surgery. Your ear surgeon will be making major changes to your ear cartilage. They will adjust protruding or misshapen ears to move them into a more natural position to help accent your facial appearance.

How to Find the Top Otoplasty Surgeon

Here are some tips to help you find the top otoplasty surgeon for your upcoming cosmetic ear surgery.

1. Check for Certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery® (ABPS)

The American Board of Plastic Surgery® (ABPS) is the largest medical organization for plastic surgeons in the United States. Members must meet rigorous professional, ethical, and safety standards to become members of the ABPS. With an ABPS surgeon, you can ensure you’ll get the highest quality ear surgery with a professional who observes all standard plastic surgery procedures.

2. Look at Photos of Their Past Ear Surgery Work

Look at the portfolio of each ear surgeon you’re considering before committing to anyone for your ear pinning surgery. Reviewing previous otoplasty before after patient pictures can help to evaluate each surgery procedure they have in their portfolio. Look for the following features:

· Protruding ears that become flatter

· Symmetry between both ears

· Repaired ear deformities

· Reductions in the size of prominent ears

· Full healing and a natural appearance

· The share of pediatric patients, teens, and adults of all ages

Reconstructive ear surgery is a safe and widely practiced surgical procedure. By looking at the otoplasty before and after pictures of other patients, you can evaluate the quality of work you can expect to receive during your otoplasty procedure.

3. Meet with The Ear Surgeon Before Committing to Ear Surgery

An ear surgeon who is invested in your well-being will take time to meet with you well before your surgery. Your doctor needs to establish a working relationship with you as a patient. Patients who can establish a rapport with their doctor before their ear surgery can better communicate their desires.

The doctor can also discuss expectations and review the scope of work for the ear surgery procedure. You can also see how the doctor expresses sympathy and if you feel they care about you.

4. The Surgeon Uses the Latest Technologies and Practices

Medical technology is constantly advancing to make surgeries less invasive and more aesthetically pleasing. Check if the clinic you’re interested in working with uses the latest technologies and techniques in its ear surgeries.

Clinics that favor local anesthesia over general anesthesia where possible and opt for minimally invasive otoplasty procedures, such as permanent sutures to pin back prominent ears, often deliver superior surgery results.

5. Read Testimonials from an Ear Surgeon’s Past Patients

Like any major purchase, you’ll want to read testimonials from a surgeon’s past patients before signing up for ear surgery. When done exceptionally, otoplasty can leave most patients with improved self-confidence, less self-consciousness, and a happier life overall.

Patient testimonials can also give insight into how artistic a surgeon is and how well they can alter everything from big ears with excess cartilage to congenital anomalies requiring reconstructive surgery. You can also find out how much the ear surgery costs and what payment options are available to them.

Otoplasty Surgeon FAQs

Before you undergo otoplasty, here are a few common questions you’ll want to have answers to so you can make an informed decision as a patient.

Is Ear Pinning Covered by Insurance?

Insurers consider pinning a cosmetic procedure and don’t typically cover the ear surgery cost, fully or partially. However, clinics often offer payment plans, so you don’t have to pay for an ear-pinning procedure upfront.

Am I a Good Candidate for Otoplasty?

Most people who are in good health, either adults or children aged between 7 and 14, can be good ear surgery candidates. Otoplasty is appropriate for treating cosmetic issues like protruding ears, an unnatural ear structure, a problem with the natural creases of the ear, or congenital issues.

What is Recovery Like for an Otoplasty Procedure?

The recovery time for an otoplasty procedure is about two weeks and can be done on an outpatient basis. Several factors can impact your recovery, but you should be able to resume normal activities several weeks after your ear surgery. Otoplasty is minimally invasive and offers a fast recovery for all ages.

Are You Ready for Your Otoplasty Consultation?

If you’re considering an otoplasty surgery, contact Dr. Ashley Steinberg with Trouvaille Aesthetics & Plastic Surgery Houston for a consultation! She is a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon who has served patients throughout Houston since 2019. As the city’s top plastic surgeon focusing on ear correction surgeries, she has the expertise and experience you need for successful surgery.

Dr. Steinberg creates a fun, friendly environment to build a special connection with each patient. She believes she can best serve you and give you the ears you want by forming a genuine relationship.

Contact her to schedule a personal ear surgery consultation today. She’ll explain everything you need to know about ear surgery and will conduct a physical examination to determine your status as an ear surgery candidate.