Face
Overview
Having ears that protrude can be awkward for anyone, but it can be especially embarrassing for young children and people with extremely short hairstyles due to teasing. Baton Rouge plastic surgeon, Dr. Erick Sanchez, performs a safe and effective ear surgery, known as otoplasty, that repositions the ears closer to the head. With hidden incisions placed behind the ears, Dr. Sanchez reconstructs the ear cartilage to bring balance and symmetry to the ears, face and head. For parents, who are concerned about their child being bullied for the appearance of the ears, we recommend having this surgery completed before kindergarten for the best results.
Best Candidates
Our plastic surgery office works with children as young as age 5 so that their ears can be reshaped prior to the start of elementary school. However, ear surgery can be performed on individuals of any age. Good candidates are men or women who demonstrate:
- Self-confidence issues because of the size or shape of their ears
- Protruding ears that stick out
- Large or oversized ears
- Under developed ear cartilage
- Torn earlobes due to heavy jewelry or ear trauma
What to Expect
Otoplasty begins with an incision behind the ear so that the cartilage can be exposed. This cartilage is then removed and/or reshaped until the ear takes on a normal appearance. Excess skin is removed and if the ear shows protrusion, our surgeon will reposition it closer to the head and firmly secure it with non-removable sutures. There are many variables that are used to help redefine the ears. The goal of this surgery is to produce a natural looking result that will be long lasting for the patient.
Recovery from Ear Surgery
Swelling and bruising can be minimal after otoplasty. The swelling and bruising will start to resolve during the first couple of weeks after surgery, although this will vary between patients. A head dressing is applied immediately after surgery and removed at the first office visit. An elastic headband must be worn for several more weeks for protection. Patients must avoid strenuous activity for a minimum of 1-2 months following surgery. Children will need to be monitored closely so that they do not pick or scratch at their ears during the healing phase.
Expected Cost
Otoplasty fees will vary by patient depending on the surgical case. The average fees for ear reshaping start at about $3,500, but can go as high as $6,000 for more for complex cases that require reconstruction.
Erick Sanchez, MD does not accept medical insurance.
Show Your Face from All Sides!
Ear surgery has changed the lives of countless individuals. Once living with anxiety and fear to show their ears, surgery creates a new confidence that allows one to show their face from all angles. If you are self conscious about the size or shape of your ears and are ready to take the step to seek surgical advice, we invite you to call our plastic surgery office today and learn more about this life-changing surgery.
