Aesthetic surgery to correct and enhance the appearance of prominent or protruding ears is referred to as otoplasty. Prominence can result from several different but related anomalies of the external ear. Achieving a natural, aesthetic, balanced correction of prominent ears requires careful analysis and correction using specific surgical techniques to address each aspect of the ears’ anatomy that is contributing to deformity.
Although multiple anatomic factors can contribute to prominence of the ears, there are few specific issues which are most common:
Because one or more of these issues (and sometimes others) can affect each individual ear, even in the same patient, they must be treated variably to obtain a proportionate, symmetrical, harmonious result.
The first step in your otoplasty journey begins with a thorough consultation in which Dr. Goldman and our team will listen to your goals, analyze your ear anatomy, review specific treatment options, develop and explain an individualized surgical plan, execute that plan, and follow you closely after surgery. During this initial visit, you'll have the opportunity to ask questions, understand the appropriate techniques, and review before-and-after photos of previous patients.
The procedure itself is typically performed with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the case and patient preference. Dr. Goldman uses advanced techniques to reshape and reposition the ear cartilage, creating a natural, balanced appearance.
The surgery usually lasts between one to two hours. Afterward, you'll be monitored in our recovery area where we provide personalized care to manage any discomfort and ensure a smooth recovery process. It’s normal to experience some swelling and bruising, but these effects should gradually diminish over time.
Explore our before and after gallery to see the dramatic but natural results of otoplasty performed by Dr. Goldman.
Ideal candidates are individuals with prominent or asymmetric ears who are healthy, desire correction, and have realistic expectations. Otoplasty can be performed on children as young as five years old, but teenagers and adults commonly undergo this procedure.
Patient's will typically have moderate discomfort, bruising, and swelling after surgery. Most patients take an occasional narcotic pill for 2 to 3 days for pain relief. Many patients just use Tylenol. Patients are allowed to shower in 48 hours and exercise in 2 weeks. Most patients return to work in less than a week. An elastic head wrap is worn as much as possible (generally not at work) for the first 2 to 3 weeks and at night for 2 to 3 months.
As with any surgery, there are risks associated with anesthesia, infection, and bleeding. Risks of such complications are less than 1%. Aesthetic issues like irregularities, asymmetry, or recurrent prominence do occur in a small percentage of patients. Dr. Goldman operates primarily in his AAAASF accredited surgery center with his highly experienced staff but specializes in aesthetic surgery.
Otoplasty scars are placed in the crease behind the ear and are therefore not visible, once healed, even in patients with short hair, no hair, or patients who wear their hair up. Dr. Goldman uses precise techniques to ensure that any scars are discrete and blend with the natural contours of the ear.
The results of otoplasty are typically permanent, but a small percentage of patients will experience some recurrent prominence. These patients may desire revision surgery. Some large studies suggest that long-term revision rates may be as high as 10%. Dr. Goldman thins and weakens the cartilage in areas that require more folding, uses permanent sutures to maintain those changes long term, and even removes cartilage, when excessive, in certain areas to minimize the chance of recurrence.
Otoplasty is a highly effective solution for anyone looking to enhance the appearance of their ears—whether correcting protrusion, asymmetry, or other aesthetic concerns. Although otoplasty is a straightforward, outpatient procedure, achieving the best results requires a thoughtful approach, meticulous planning, and skilled execution.
Dr. Goldman will work closely with each patient to provide optimal outcomes, combining technical precision with an artistic understanding of facial harmony. If you're considering otoplasty, consult with a well-trained, compassionate team like ours at Beachwood Plastic Surgery, Westlake Plastic Surgery, The Surgeon's Spa - Beachwood, and The Surgeon's Spa - Westlake. Feel free to reach out to us via phone, email, or in person to discuss your goals and explore how Otoplasty can help you achieve the look you desire.
