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When After Otoplasty Can I Get a Revision?

Ears that protrude too far from your head can affect your confidence and, for children and teens, can result in teasing and bullying. Otoplasty surgery is beneficial for people of almost any age with concerns about their ears. Along with protruding ears, otoplasty can adjust ear size and shape to make them symmetrical and proportionate to the rest of your appearance. 

What is Otoplasty?

Otoplasty is a surgical procedure that reshapes the ear cartilage to change the shape, size, or position of the ears. Overly prominent ears that protrude from the sides of your head can make your ears look too large and highlight any asymmetries. 

The most common type of otoplasty adjusts the cartilage behind the ears to make them lay closer to the head. Other types of otoplasty alter the size or shape of the ears, often with the goal of achieving symmetry and proportion. 

How is Otoplasty Performed?

Otoplasty can be performed under local or general anesthesia. Some people prefer to be asleep during surgery, especially children, while others may prefer to stay awake. Your Specialty Aesthetic Surgery surgeon will use an incision behind the ear to remove and reshape the cartilage. 

Sutures help to hold the ear in its new position, and the incisions will be well-disguised when healed. The procedure can take between one and three hours depending on the complexity. Otoplasty surgery to resize the ears requires different procedures that sometimes involve a visible scar. In most cases, ears that look too large will look normal when positioned correctly. 

When After Otoplasty Can I Get a Revision?

While most people heal quickly after an otoplasty, ear cartilage takes a long time to heal completely. Your results can continue to change for six months or more following your procedure. 

If you are unhappy with otoplasty results and want to have a revision, we will recommend that you wait until your cartilage is completely stabilized. This process typically takes six months to a year. Your surgeon will assess how much you have healed and whether you are ready for revision surgery. 

How Much Does Otoplasty Cost?

Otoplasty is a life-changing procedure at any age but is not covered by insurance. However, over 97% of people report that the results were worth the costs. Otoplasty expenses vary widely and are affected by factors including:

  • Your surgeon’s skill and experience
  • Your location
  • The type of procedure
  • Where the procedure is performed
  • The type of anesthesia used

The average otoplasty price ranges from $5,000 to $10,000. We recommend a consultation so we can discuss your actual cost. Estimated otoplasty costs may not include some fees and expenses. We will always provide you with the most accurate estimate so you will not have any unwelcome surprises. 

How Old Should I Be to Get Otoplasty?

Most cosmetic procedures are only performed on adults, but the benefits of otoplasty are so significant that it can also be performed on children. Your child can have otoplasty as soon as their ears have finished growing, usually around age five

Children who have an otoplasty can avoid years of bullying and teasing, letting them feel confident and free to be themselves. Teens and adults can also have otoplasty and will enjoy significant benefits. 

Who Makes a Good Candidate for Otoplasty?

Good candidates for otoplasty want to change the position or appearance of their ears. Children over the age of five, teens, and adults make good candidates. We recommend this procedure for anyone who finds that their protruding ears affect their confidence and happiness. Ideal candidates have no significant health problems and do not smoke.  

What is Recovery Like After Otoplasty?

We will prescribe medication to keep you comfortable for the first few days. Swelling and soreness should improve significantly within that time. Most people can go back to work or their usual activities after five to seven days

However, you should expect to wear a protective headband, especially at night, for up to four weeks. You may prefer to schedule a child’s procedure for summertime. 

What are the Benefits of Otoplasty?

Otoplasty has a tremendous effect on your self-esteem. Research has shown that people who have otoplasty report a higher quality of life afterward. People also have more confidence and no longer worry about others noticing their ears. Otoplasty is an extremely safe procedure with minimal side effects risk. 

How Long Will Otoplasty Results Last?

The cartilage removed during otoplasty will not grow back, since ear cartilage stops growing around the age of five. Otoplasty results will last a lifetime, although the appearance of your ears may change as your face changes with age. If your child has otoplasty, they will enjoy a lifetime without the frustration of protruding ears. 

Take the Next Step – Request a Consultation

Want to learn more about otoplasty? Schedule your consultation by calling Specialty Aesthetic Surgery at (212) 737-8700. We look forward to working with you!

Specialty Aesthetic Surgery serves the greater NYC metro area.

About our Surgeons

Bruce Moskowitz is an experienced and board-certified oculoplastic surgeon. His practice encompasses all areas of oculoplastic cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. He has a well-known reputation for revision surgery, and a large portion of his practice comes from other colleagues to revise sub-optimal outcomes.

Grigoriy Mashkevich is an experienced and double-board certified facial plastic surgeon. He belongs to a highly select group of surgeons with a focused specialization in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the nose, face, and neck. 

*Individual results may vary.

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