Otoplasty in Syracuse & Rochester, NY
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Contact UsWHAT IS AN OTOPLASTY?
Otoplasty is a cosmetic procedure to reposition the ear to improve the appearance of congenital ear deformity. Most patients seek otoplasty to reduce or set-back the prominent ears that “stick out too far”.
CORRECTION OF OVERLY PROMINENT, LARGE EARS
Most patients are born with ears that are angled forward or outward. While there are several reasons why the ears may appear overly prominent in appearance, most common reasons are straightened anti-helix and/or overly developed conchal bowl. During planning of the otoplasty procedure, these anatomic features are carefully examined to determine which surgical technique will be utilized to restore the ideal nature proportion and shape of the ear cartilage.
CANDIDATES FOR OTOPLASTY
Many patients are adults who wish to correct the appearance of their ears that have bothered them throughout their lives. Female patients have the benefit of hiding their prominent ears with their long hair, but now seeking correction so they can tie their hair back with confidence. Sometimes, parents will present to the clinic with their children who are bothered by the prominent ears.
Sometimes, parents report that their children are targeted and ridiculed by other kids because of the overly large ears. Most ear cartilages are developed and matured by age 5, but most young patients who undergo otoplasty are 8 years or older in our practice. While select patients may be able to tolerate the procedure under local anesthesia, most young patients will elect to have the surgery at an outpatient surgery facility under light to moderate sedation.
OTOPLASTY PROCEDURE
The procedure is performed at our accredited AAAHC certified office based surgery facility under twilight sedation IV-sedation. Pediatric patient procedures are performed at an outpatient surgery facility under light to moderate sedation. Some patients may elect to proceed under local anesthesia with oral sedative. Depending on each patient and the anatomic feature of the ears, patients may require reshaping of antihelical folds with suture technique, reduction of conchal bowl height, scoring of cartilage, reduction and/or ear lobe. Most incisions are placed behind the ear, and will become inconspicuous. Ear lobe reduction is performed with small vertical linear incisions at the ear lobe.
RECOVERY FROM OTOPLASTY
First week after the procedure, patients are expected to wear headband or ear-bands which will provide compression to the ears during day and night time. This will also prevent accidental retraction or pulling of the ear, especially at night during sleep. Ear can be sensitive and patients may require pain medication during the first several days. During week 2, patients may elect to not wear a headband, but at night time they should continue to wear the compression headband during sleep. We recommend that patients continue to exercise precaution to ensure the ear does not accidentally get pulled forward or manipulated for the first 8 weeks.
Photos
Patient with prominent, prolapsed ears
View PhotosPatient bothered by ear malformation
View PhotosPatient with prominent ears
View PhotosNatural Face Clinic Reviews
All of my interactions with staff at CNY Facial Surgery have been positive. They are professional while still being friendly and personable. Dr Kim is engaging, knowledgeable, and very skilled. I’m thankful to have this practice in our area!
I was pleasantly surprised with my first visit today. Dr. Kim was very thorough and offered a full explanation of my future visits
Everyone in the office was welcoming and very friendly. Dr Kim was very kind and explained everything in great detail, I feel very comfortable having surgery here!
Extremely efficient staff and doctors.
Dr Kim is an amazing Physician, his skill and calm deminur make it a pleasant experience. I have never waited over 5 minutes to be called into office.
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About UsOtoplasty FAQs
At what age is otoplasty commonly performed?
While ear cartilage reaches maturity around age five, otoplasty is most commonly performed on patients aged eight and older. This timing allows for sufficient ear development and ensures the child can cooperate with postoperative care. Adults of any age can also undergo otoplasty to address concerns about ear prominence.
Is otoplasty only for protruding ears?
No, otoplasty can address various ear concerns, including protruding ears, asymmetrical ears, overly large ears (macrotia), and ear deformities caused by injury or congenital conditions. Our team at Natural Face Clinic will customize the procedure to meet your unique needs and aesthetic goals.
What is the typical duration of an otoplasty procedure?
Otoplasty usually takes 1 – 2 hours to complete, depending on the complexity of the case. If additional corrections are needed, such as reducing the size of the earlobes, the procedure may take slightly longer.