Otoplasty

If you feel that the size, shape or asymmetry of your ears do not complement your face then you may consider surgical ear shaping, also called otoplasty. Dr. Rad has unparalleled training, experience and artistry in facial aesthetic surgery generally, and otoplasty in particular, to achieve harmonious, natural results.

What Is Otoplasty?

Otoplasty is a surgical procedure that corrects the shape, position, or proportion of the ears. It is often referred to as ear surgery or ear pinning. This surgery can address a variety of cosmetic concerns, such as prominent or protruding ears, earlobes that are too large or long, or misshapen or asymmetrical ears and can be performed on both adults and children over the age of five.

As a safe and effective way to improve the appearance of the ears and boost self-confidence, Otoplasty can improve overall facial balance and harmony when the ears are brought into proportion with other features.

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“Safety, artistry and compassion…my guiding principles.”

- Ariel N Rad, MD, PhD, FACS

01Artistry

Finding the best surgeon for otoplasty is important when deciding to go through with surgery. All surgeons have a different degree of aesthetic sense, some more than others. Dr. Rad’s eye is trained to evaluate a face both holistically and at the smallest details, looking for asymmetries and optimal contours. Dr. Rad is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery or the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. This ensures that Dr. Rad has completed rigorous training and meets the highest standards of education and expertise in their field. He is extremely experienced and has extensive experience performing otoplasty with a wide repertoire of different surgical techniques when performing otoplasty procedures. Dr. Rad’s reputation with organizations such as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons or the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery provides a sense of Dr. Rad’s overall quality of care and patient satisfaction. Overall, Dr. Rad prioritizes the comfort of his patients and takes the time to listen to your concerns and answer your questions. After consulting with Dr. Rad and assessing the best surgical plan, you should feel confident in his ability to understand your goals and work with you to achieve them.

02Safety

Experience and environment are crucial when it comes to safety. Not only has Dr. Rad performed many otoplasty surgeries, but he also places safety as the utmost priority when planning and executing surgeries.

Otoplasty, also known as ear surgery or ear pinning, is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia. The exact surgical technique used will depend on the specific concerns of the patient and the desired outcome.

03Technique

When performing an otoplasty surgery, Dr. Rad employs the following technique:
1. Anesthesia: The first step in otoplasty is the administration of local anesthesia to numb the ear and surrounding tissues. In some cases, general anesthesia may be used.

2. Incision: Dr. Rad will make an incision behind the ear to access the cartilage. The incision is usually made in the natural crease where the ear meets the head, so any scarring will be well-hidden.

3. Reshaping: Depending on the desired outcome, Dr. Rad may remove or reshape the cartilage to change the size, shape, or position of the ear. Dr. Rad may use sutures or special techniques to hold the ear closer to the head, or to create folds or contours in the cartilage.

4. Closing the incision: Once the cartilage has been reshaped, Dr. Rad will close the incision with sutures.

5. Dressing and recovery: A dressing will be applied to protect the ears and hold them in their new position. The patient will be monitored in the recovery area until the anesthesia wears off, and then will be able to go home.

04recovery

Recovery after otoplasty, or ear surgery, can vary depending on the extent of the procedure and individual factors such as age and overall health. However, here are some general guidelines for what to expect during the recovery process:

Immediately after surgery: After the procedure, the ears will be covered with a protective dressing and patients may experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising Pain medication may be prescribed to manage any discomfort.

First week: during the first week after surgery, patients should avoid strenuous activity and keep the head elevated to help reduce swelling. Patients may need to take time off from work or school during this period.

Second week: During the second week, the dressing will be removed, and patients may be removed, and patients may be fitted with a lighter headband or wrap to protect the ears. Patients can gradually begin to resume normal activities, but should still avoid any activities that may put stress on the ears.

First few months: It can take several weeks or even months for the ears to fully heal and settle into their new shape. Patients should continue to avoid any activities that may cause trauma to the ears, such as contact sports, and should follow their surgeon;s instructions for caring for the incision sites

It’s important for patients to carefully follow Dr. Rad’s instructions during the recovery process to ensure the best possible outcome.

05Aftercare

After the surgery, patients will need to follow Dr. Rad’s instructions for caring for the ears and dressing, and will need to avoid strenuous activity or contact sports for several weeks. Most patients can return to normal activities within a week or two after surgery, but it may take several months for the ears to fully heal and settle into their new shape.

06longevity

Most patients will see the final results of their otoplasty within six months to a year after the procedure. Patients should continue to protect their ears from trauma and sun exposure, and should maintain a healthy lifestyle to optimize their results.

frequently askedQuestions

How do I know if I’m a good candidate for an otoplasty surgery?

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Otoplasty is ideally performed on fully developed ears, but it can also be safely and effectively performed on patients ages 5 years or younger if necessary.

The best candidates for cosmetic ear surgery are clients who are in good overall health and do not have any underlying medical conditions that might affect the healing process. Patients should be non-smokers to reduce the chance of complications. Smokers will need to quit several weeks before the date of their procedure.

Good candidates for otoplasty, or ear surgery, are individuals who have concerns about the size, shape, or position of their ears and have realistic expectations about the outcome of the procedure. Some specific factors that may make some a good candidate for otoplasty include:

Protruding ears: individuals who have ears that stick out too far from the head may be good candidates for otoplasty. This can be a source of self-consciousness and may make it difficult to wear certain hairstyles.
Asymmetrical ears: If one ear is significantly larger or shaped differently than the other, otoplasty may be able to help create a more balanced appearance.
Large ears: Otoplasty can be used to increase or decrease the size of the ears to create a more proportionate appearance.
Earlobe repair: Individuals who have stretch or torn earlobes from heavy earring or other trauma may be candidates for otoplasty to repair the damage.
Children with prominent ears: Otoplasty can be performed on children as young as five or six years old who have protruding ears that are causing emotional distress or social difficulties

It’s important for individuals considering otoplasty to be in good overall health and to have realistic expectations about the outcome of the procedure. The best way to determine whether someone is a good candidate for otoplasty is to schedule a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon who can evaluate their concerns and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan.

Testimonials

“Dr. Rad is not only a skilled and talented surgeon but a kind and compassionate doctor, who treats the whole person. For me, he exemplifies medical excellence.”

“He is the most gifted physician that I’ve ever met. Dr. Ariel Rad is in the top-echelon of physicians. He has a brilliant brain and a big heart. His skills as a surgeon are unparalleled.”

“He was very thorough, knowledgeable and most of all empathic to my situation.”

“He is not only a great surgeon, but an artist.”

“He is very skilled, his manner is absolutely delightful, and he is a truly kind, considerate person”

“He is an expert in his field. He is brilliant and very caring. I will never forget how compassionate he was on the day of my surgery”

“Dr. Rad is one of the world's best! His artistic eye and incredible skill shows in my incredible face lift results. His ability as a surgeon is surpassed only by his kindness and approachability as a person.”

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