Knowing what to expect from an otoplasty before and after you go under the knife can help you enjoy a successful procedure and optimal recovery.
Successful bilateral otoplasty (ear pinning surgery) can be life-changing for many people, especially for children, the most common otoplasty patients.
This safe and effective procedure can improve the appearance of the ears and carries minimal risks, though some preparation and recovery are needed. Find out what you or your child should do to prepare for a successful ear surgery.
What is Otoplasty Surgery?
Ear surgery (otoplasty) is a surgical procedure that moves protruding ears closer to the head. The ears stick out because they either have too much cartilage or insufficient, causing them to sag. Otoplasties are usually done on children between the ages of 7 to 14 or on adults after this period.
During the surgery, a doctor will place the patient under general anesthesia if they’re a child or under local anesthesia and sedatives if they’re an adult or teenager.
While performing the procedure, the surgeon will cut away excess skin and cartilage or simply suture it together to bring the ears to their desired shape.
How Much Does Otoplasty Surgery Cost?
An otoplasty surgery costs about $3,000 to $5,000 nationwide. The price of your surgery will determine how much work needs to be done to make your ears as you like them, as well as any additional fees from the surgeon.
However, an otoplasty is considered by insurers to be a cosmetic plastic surgery, meaning you will need to pay for it out-of-pocket or through a payment plan.
What to Do Before Your Ear Surgery (Otoplasty)
While otoplasties are some of the least invasive plastic surgery procedures, there are a few things you can do to prepare for yours.
These steps can help you best prepare for your recovery after ear surgery.
Schedule Time Off Work
It’s a good idea to schedule a few days or up to a week off work after your surgery. Recovery from any surgery can tax the body, including ear surgery. Your sleep may be disturbed by your ears, which can impact your performance at work. You may need some time to recover from anesthesia.
Talk to Your Child
If your child is undergoing an ear pinning surgery, talk to them beforehand so they know not to play with their ears after the surgery. They may harm themselves or infect their ears, leading to otoplasty complications.
Take Photos
Patient photos from before and after an ear surgery can help evaluate the procedure’s success. Be sure to take pictures of your right ear, left ear, and front and back photos. Your surgeon can assist with these.
What to Expect After Your Otoplasty Ear Surgery
An otoplasty can cause minimal disruption to your life, but there are a few changes you may need to make after leaving the clinic. Find out what to expect after your ear surgery to ensure the success of your surgery.
Six Weeks of Recovery
After an ear pinning surgery, you could expect to spend several days out of work to recover. However, you can get back to many of your normal activities within a week of an otoplasty. You may need to wear a headband for up to two weeks after surgery to keep your ears in place.
It can take six weeks for your ears to fully recover from an otoplasty, during which time you should avoid vigorous activities. Or anything that requires excessive head movement.
Temporary Sensitivity
After ear pinning, your ears may be sensitive. This is a natural reaction by your body to any trauma, including surgery. Keep your surgeon aware of any sensitivity, and avoid touching your ears. If you have a child, ensure they know not to rub their ears, as it could disrupt the healing tissue.
Caring for Your Ears
After an otoplasty, keep your head elevated, reducing swelling and improving blood flow to your years. You will also want to avoid moisture or excess heat from a blow dryer. Be sure to take any medications your doctor recommends and apply topical ointments they prescribe as necessary.
Otoplasty FAQs: Before and After
Otoplasty FAQs: Before and AfterYou probably have lots of questions about your ear surgery. Here are some of the FAQs from our patients about an otoplasty. With this information, you can go into your procedure with better information.
Does Otoplasty Hurt?
Otoplasty may cause pain after the first day, but it usually fades within 24 hours. If you are experiencing pain longer after your ear pinning procedure, speaking with your surgeon is essential.
How High is the Failure Rate for Otoplasty?
Around 80% of otoplasties are successful. However, a patient may return for revisions on their ear pinning surgery after the procedure. Changes may occur to the right ear, the left ear, or both, which a surgeon can correct giving the patient a natural result.
What Is Earlobe Repair?
Earlobe repair is a quick, outpatient procedure, under local anesthesia. It is done to stitch together any damage or tear in just 15-30 minutes.
Contact Us For Your Otoplasty Consultation
Are you ready to get the ears you’ve been dreaming of? Contact Dr. Ashley Steinberg with Trouvaille Aesthetics & Plastic Surgery Houston to schedule your otoplasty surgery consultation. She’s a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon serving the Houston area since 2019. She’ll answer all of your questions and can evaluate your ears to determine your status as an ear surgery candidate.
Dr. Steinberg takes a friendly, personal, and fun approach to each ear surgery. She understands how a successful surgery can support her patients’ self-confidence and how they can feel self-conscious before undergoing surgery. With her care and expertise, you can rest easy knowing your procedure will be conducted with the utmost attention to all the details that make your body unique!
References
1. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/ear-surgery/surgeon
