While you can try to hide ear concerns with long hair, hats, or other headwear, otoplasty (corrective ear surgery) is a transformative plastic surgery procedure that enhances the appearance of the ear by repositioning the outstanding part of the ear, remodeling cartilage, or adding cartilage. Any incision necessary is hidden behind the ears. After this procedure, you can look forward to achieving natural-looking ears you can feel comfortable showing off. Hair can be worn short or styled up.
Otoplasty can be performed as a stand-alone procedure or combined with other facial plastic surgery procedures, including facelift surgery, eyelid (blepharoplasty) or brow lift surgery, to achieve a more complete and dramatic transformation.
Dr. Butler is a well-respected, board-certified facial plastic surgeon with many years of experience performing facial rejuvenation procedures in Santa Monica, California.
What Can Corrective Ear Surgery (Otoplasty) Do?
Correct Ears That Stick Out
Otoplasty can create:
- Ears that are positioned naturally closer to the sides of the head (ear pinning)
- A more defined and natural appearance to your face
Correct Disproportionate Ears
Otoplasty can:
- Correct overly large ears that detract from your facial appearance
- Correct ears that are too small for the natural size of your head and face
Improve Confidence
Otoplasty can:
- Help you feel more comfortable with how you look
- Allow you to wear the hairstyles you’ve always wanted but were too insecure to have
The Otoplasty Process
Consultation
At your consultation, you can discuss your cosmetic concerns and goals, and Dr. Butler will evaluate your ears to determine if otoplasty is right for you. If it is, Dr. Butler will create a surgical plan for you, discuss the procedure in detail, and answer any questions about the procedure and recovery.
Our office will provide an inclusive cost quote and coordinate scheduling.
Preparation
When scheduled, a preoperative visit is arranged. Following your pre-op instructions is essential to ensuring a successful and safe procedure.
Some of these instructions include:
- Quitting smoking (and vaping) at least six weeks before your procedure
- Avoiding alcohol consumption
- Stopping certain medications and supplements that may increase bleeding (such as aspirin and NSAIDS) a week before your procedure
The Otoplasty Procedure
Otoplasty is generally performed under intravenous sedation or general anesthesia (especially for young children); however, local anesthesia may be used for older children and adults.
Once the anesthesia has been administered, Dr. Butler will make the incision, located behind the ear within the natural crease, where the ear joins the head. Through the incision, Dr. Butler will manipulate the ear cartilage, including molding the cartilage into a new position and shape. Specialized stitches are often used to produce permanent results. Depending on the correction needed, Dr. Butler may remove cartilage and/or skin or use cartilage grafts.
A bandage will be wrapped around the head to protect the healing incisions and keep the ears in the correct position. At this point, patients can return home to begin their recovery.
Otoplasty FAQ
How much does otoplasty cost in Santa Monica?
The price of your otoplasty procedure depends on various factors, including the type and extent of correction needed. You will be given an accurate cost estimate for your surgery after your consultation.
Who is a good candidate for otoplasty?
Otoplasty is safe and effective for patients of all ages (including children as young as five). Good candidates for otoplasty are patients who struggle with cosmetic concerns in the ear, including ears that stick out from the sides of the head and ears that are disproportionate in size to the rest of the face. Patients should be in good physical health and have realistic expectations for their results.
Is otoplasty painful?
Otoplasty is performed under anesthesia (either general or local with sedation). This means that you should not feel any pain during the operation. Any pain or discomfort you feel during your recovery should dissipate within a week, and you can take prescription or over-the-counter medications to alleviate any soreness.
How long does it take to recover from otoplasty?
Recovery from otoplasty generally takes two weeks, though most patients can return to normal activities after one week.
Is otoplasty safe?
Yes. Dr. Butler keeps his patients’ safety and health at the forefront of everything he does. However, it is necessary to note that, like any surgical procedure, specific risks and potential complications are involved, including infection.
Who should I consult about otoplasty in Santa Monica, CA?
David M. Butler is a double board-certified cosmetic surgeon specializing in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the face and neck. He is dedicated to helping his patients achieve their desired aesthetic goals.
To learn more about how otoplasty can help you, schedule a consultation at Dr. Butler’s Santa Monica office to discuss your otoplasty options by calling (310) 428-0033.
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2001 Santa Monica Blvd, Suite 1262W
Santa Monica, CA 90404
Call Us
(310) 428-0033