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When Will I See Results From Otoplasty?

When we meet people, we usually take no notice of their ears. However, unusually large ears or ones that protrude from the head can make you feel like everyone is looking at them. If this problem affects your child, they may even experience teasing. Otoplasty corrects the appearance of your ears so you feel confident about them. 

What is Otoplasty?

Otoplasty is a procedure that changes the shape, size, or position of your ears. Unlike other aesthetic procedures, otoplasty is considered so beneficial that it is often performed on children. Otoplasty is an ear surgery that reshapes the cartilage to achieve the desired ear shape. At Specialty Aesthetic Surgery, we correct oddly shaped, oversized, or protruding ears so you no longer feel self-conscious. 

How Does Otoplasty Work?

Otoplasty can be performed on adults and children as young as five since ear cartilage has fully developed by this age. Sedation keeps you or your child comfortable throughout the procedure and prevents you from remembering any part of it. Your surgeon makes an incision behind the ear and uses it to reshape the cartilage. Changing the shape of the cartilage can move the ear closer to the head, making it less noticeable. 

When Will I See Results From Otoplasty?

Your ears will look different immediately after surgery. However, they will be swollen, so you will not immediately see their final appearance. Your ears will settle into their final position within a few months. Fortunately, you or your child will see dramatic improvements within a week or two. 

Many people choose to have their child’s procedure performed during a break from school. This allows your child time to rest and heal while the majority of the swelling fades. Children and adults are usually thrilled with the immediate improvements of otoplasty and even more pleased as they develop over time. 

What are the Benefits of Ear Surgery?

Ear surgery has several benefits, making it a life-changing procedure at any age. Some important benefits of this procedure include:

Increased Confidence

Adults with large or protruding ears may feel like everyone notices them. Children may even be teased by peers. Ear surgery corrects these problems, helping you feel more confident. Otoplasty provides a boost that can help your child socialize, make friends, and develop their self-esteem. 

More Freedom of Expression

When you no longer worry about people noticing your ears, you may feel more free to express your sense of style. You no longer have to hide your ears with your hair or avoid drawing attention to them. You may even feel confident enough to experiment with new accessories and styles. 

Long-Lasting Results

Your ears are made of cartilage, a stiff but flexible material. Your ears stop growing before you turn five, and cartilage stays in the same position from that time. Once your surgeon shapes that cartilage into a new position, it will stay in that position. Otoplasty results last a lifetime and will not change as your child grows. 

How Do I Prepare for Ear Surgery?

Your team will provide you with instructions to help you prepare for your otoplasty. We will also discuss how to prepare children for the procedure and relieve any anxieties. We recommend following these steps before surgery:

  • Avoid NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or aspirin
  • Avoid using supplements that increase bleeding risk
  • Do not smoke for at least four weeks before the procedure
  • Stop drinking alcohol at least a week before the procedure

List all your over-the-counter medications and supplements during your consultation. Many supplements can have unexpected side effects. 

What is Recovery Like After Ear Surgery?

After the procedure, you can expect a few days of bruising and swelling. We will prescribe medication for these first few days, and most people are comfortable with over-the-counter Tylenol from that point. Adults and children can expect five to seven days off from work or school. You will have bandages on your ears until you have your sutures removed, and you will have a headband to wear that protects your ears and holds them in place. 

You should avoid strenuous activities, especially those that might put stress on the surgical area, for at least four weeks. You (or your child) should not wear a helmet or other type of hat for up to six weeks. Monitor children to ensure they do not accidentally disrupt their ears while healing. 

Am I a Good Candidate for Otoplasty?

Adults and children over five usually make good candidates for otoplasty. Ideal candidates are bothered by large or protruding ears and looking for a solution. Children make especially good candidates if their ears are affecting their confidence or social interactions. You may not be a good candidate if you have certain medical conditions. 

Take the Next Step – Request a Consultation

Want to learn more about otoplasty? Schedule your consultation online or 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. 

Dr. Anna Frants is a board-certified facial plastic surgeon who is experienced in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. Her areas of surgical specialty include the face, neck, nose, eyelids, eyebrows, and ears. 

*Individual results may vary. 

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