Ear pinning, or otoplasty is done when patients are concerned about protruding ears. This cosmetic facial procedure can be performed in selected patients under local anesthesia in an office setting.
Through an approach from behind the ear, the shape of the ear is adjusted and the ears are set back closer to the head, resulting in a natural look. This procedure is great for young adults who have always been self-conscious about their ears and finally want to do something about it.
Dr. Daniel Del Vecchio is a highly experienced plastic surgeon in Boston, MA who has assisted countless adults and children to overcome their fear of showing off their ears with this surgery. Regardless of the deformity, ear surgery at Back Bay Plastic Surgery allows an individual to show their face from any angle with self-assurance. If you or your child are concerned about the appearance of the ears, contact us to schedule a consultation with Dr. Del Vecchio to get more information on otoplasty.
Ear Pinning – an Option for You?
Some patients are self-conscious about their ears sticking too far from their head. Usually they wear hats all the time or style their hair to cover their ears. It is amazing to see the transformation once a young adult has their ears pinned back, after otoplasty. This is a relatively straightforward procedure where the skin and the cartilage of the ears are adjusted using sutures and the ears are placed closer to the head. The procedure can be performed awake under local anesthesia, or patients may prefer to be given general anesthesia in out fully licensed operating room, certified by the American Association of Ambulatory Aesthetic Surgery Facilities (“AAAASF). Recovery is usually 2-3 weeks. These procedures usually take about one hour to perform.
Surgical Technique for Ear Surgery
Cosmetic ear surgery is completed using a form of anesthesia. In most cases, the incision is made near the back of the ear or inside the inner ear folds. During surgery, cartilage may be removed or added to create a more natural appearance. It is usual for both ears to be altered during treatment to ensure they look and appear balanced. Once the ears are surgically corrected, the incisions are closed with sutures and bandaged so they can remain safeguarded for healing.
What to Expect from Ear Surgery
Once treatment has finished and it is safe to leave the outpatient surgery center, you will rest and recover at home. Dr. Del Vecchio or a member of his team will give recovery instructions. It is important to not touch or scratch the ears. Furthermore, you or your child should avoid laying on the ears by sleeping in an upright position for the first several days. Dr. Del Vecchio will ask to see his ear surgery patients back within the first week — during this time, Dr. Del Vecchio will remove the bandages and look at you or your child’s ears. Natural-looking ears are noticeable almost immediately, and the results will continue to look better as the ears heal.
Reshape Your Ears
Although the ears are small, an abnormal shape, size, or position can make a huge difference in your appearance. Ear surgery (otoplasty) can help your child avoid teasing at school, or help you if you feel uncomfortable about your ears. Contact Back Bay Plastic Surgery in Boston, MA to schedule your appointment with plastic surgeon Dr. Daniel Del Vecchio and learn more about cosmetic ear surgery. We look forward to helping you gain a look you can be proud of and the confidence to flaunt it.
Ear Surgery FAQs
- How much does ear surgery cost?
The cost of ear surgery will depend on what is being performed (ear shaping, pinning, earlobe repair, or a combination). Once Dr. Del Vecchio has listened to your concerns and goals, he can create your surgical plan and estimate costs. In order for you to focus on getting the results you need instead of costs, Back Bay Plastic Surgery accepts many payment methods and we can help you find low-interest medical financing.
- Do I need to have both ears done or just one?
Many issues, including ears that are too large or stick out, occur in both ears so both will need to be corrected. During the surgery, Dr. Del Vecchio will shape both ears so they are as equal as possible. However, if only one ear needs to be changed, the size and shape will be altered to match the other ear. When he develops your treatment plan, Dr. Del Vecchio will let you know whether one or both ears will be addressed.
- Will the results of ear surgery last?
The ears typically mature faster than other parts of the face and body, which is why an otoplasty can be performed on younger patients with long-lasting results. Dr. Del Vecchio will assess the ears and then talk to you about realistic expectations and how long the results should last. Even as the rest of the face and body can change due to age and gravity, the effect on the ears should be minimal. If there are dramatic changes to the ears due to an injury, a second otoplasty may be performed.
- What about fixing stretched or torn earlobes?
The popularity of large earrings and ear gauges have made earlobe repair a popular surgery at Back Bay Plastic Surgery. If you are interested in having earlobe surgery, schedule a consultation with Dr. Del Vecchio. He will examine the damage and let you know what may be done to restore your earlobes.
- How old should my child be to consider otoplasty?
On average, children about 5 – 6 years of age are ideal candidates for otoplasty. While the ear is usually fully developed, the cartilage and tissue will still be soft, making it easy to reshape. This age is also good because it is before they start school or early in their education so they can avoid being teased by classmates. Although many otoplasty patients are children, Dr. Del Vecchio also performs ear surgery on adults.