Are you self-conscious about the shape or size of your ears? Do you feel they stick out too much or are disproportionate to your face? If so, you may be a great candidate for otoplasty. These concerns are often present at birth, and most otoplasty candidates simply do not “grow into” their ears. Otoplasty can help adults and children regain their confidence about their appearance.

What is Otoplasty?

Otoplasty, also known as ear surgery or ear pinning, is a surgical procedure that allows Dr. DeBusk to modify the shape, position, or proportion of the ears. It may be performed for aesthetic preferences or to correct and reconstruct deformities of the external ear (pinna).

Benefits of otoplasty for children and adults

A successful otoplasty procedure can bring harmony to your facial features and also offers intrinsic and functional benefits:

• Enhances self-esteem
• Improves symmetry between the ears
• Reduces how far the ear protrudes from the head
• Corrects folded ear tips (“lop ears”)
• Reshapes earlobes that may be too long or offset
• Corrects defects, including enhancing ears to appear too small
• Restores the ear after trauma or injury
• Reduces discomfort caused by protruding ears
• Allows for better-fitting eyewear and headgear

Psychological impacts of ear surgery in children

Children often bear the brunt of the ridicule associated with aesthetic or genetic ear abnormalities—otoplasty has been shown to have positive psychological impacts on children. The Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery surveyed patients aged 5-16 who had otoplasty about how their results affected their everyday life. The results of the survey show:

• 97% reported increased happiness
• 92% reported increased self-confidence
• 79% noted improved social interactions
• 100% reported bullying issues were reduced or eliminated 

Dr. DeBusk (a loving father of two) takes great pride in creating a functional and natural-looking ear appearance for children and young adults, helping families breathe a little easier knowing the positive impact otoplasty has on their child’s life. 

Dr. Debusk is so awesome!!! … He made me feel so comfortable through out the whole process. He explained step by step what to expect, and over succeeded my expectations! You will not regret choosing him as your Dr. for any facial procedures…

Diana H, Google Review

Am I a good candidate for otoplasty?

Ideal candidates for otoplasty are those who feel self-conscious about the size or position of their ears and are in good general health. Realistic expectations about the procedure and  results are also important when considering otoplasty.

Children may be good candidates for otoplasty if they are at least 5 years old (cartilage should be stable enough for surgery), can reasonably follow simple directions, such as not removing their bandages during recovery, are cooperative, and are not distressed by having their ears touched.

Dr. Debusk took the time to explain the surgery, answer questions and spend the time needed with me to calm my nerves. I can’t say enough good things about him.

Lisa R, Google Review

Preparing for your ear surgery procedure

Choosing a board-certified surgeon is the key to a successful otoplasty. Dr. Taylor DeBusk has the requisite training, knowledge, and experience in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, particularly in dealing with the intricacies of the ear anatomy.

Once Dr. DeBusk determines that you (or your child) would safely benefit from otoplasty, he will advise on preoperative measures to take, provide a procedures overview and help you understand how the surgery will be personalized to your anatomy and goals, along with how to care for and support the ears as they heal. 

The otoplasty procedure

The goal is to achieve a symmetrical, natural-looking ear appearance from all angles that preserves functionality. Your ear surgery will take place in our private, on-sight Beleza Surgery Center—a state-of-the-art Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC) in Cypress for your comfort and safety.

Anesthesia options for otoplasty

Dr. DeBusk performs otoplasty under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation. Many adults choose to have ear surgery with local anesthesia and sedation for a quicker recovery. General anesthesia may be the preferred choice depending on the age of a child for their comfort and safety. Dr. DeBusk will provide his professional recommendation based on each patient’s needs.

Surgical techniques in otoplasty

Otoplasty involves a combination of skin excision, cartilage scoring, and suturing techniques to reshape the ear—Dr. DeBusk will explain the surgery plan in detail based on the type of correction needed to achieve the best results possible. Incisions are typically hidden behind the ear or thoughtfully placed in the ear’s natural creases and shadows in the front of the ear in some cases.

Resizing and repositioning prominent ears

Prominent describes ears that project (protrude or stick out) from the head. Otoplasty adjusts the angle and shape of the ear to reduce this prominence. Dr. DeBusk will assess and also consider the features on your face to achieve symmetry and balance for a natural appearance.

This type of cosmetic ear surgery uses a vertical incision along the back of the ear to reduce conchal cartilage to create a more proportionate ear size. The outer portion of the ears is then positioned closer to the head (often described as “pinning”) and sutured to create a streamlined transition between the ear and the head.

Correcting other ear abnormalities

Dr. DeBusk can also correct other deformities during an otoplasty procedure. In cases where patients have a misshapen non-existent antihelical fold (the ear’s outer rim), Dr. DeBusk can reshape the antihelical fold and support the new structure with permanent internal sutures.

Recovery after otoplasty

Post-surgery care

Following the procedure, you’ll need to wear protective dressings around your ears to support their new size, shape, and position. Your ears will be swollen and sore to the touch for a few weeks; however, most otoplasty patients find recovery quick and tolerable. Discomfort can be managed with OTC pain medication; Dr. DeBusk can prescribe stronger pain medication for increased comfort if needed.

After the initial healing process, you’ll switch to a specially designed otoplasty headband to wear during strenuous activity and overnight to encourage optimal healing and results. 

Possible otoplasty complications and how to handle them

Complications from ear surgery are rare but may include infection, bleeding, or changes in sensation. Dr. DeBusk’s meticulous surgical approach and extensive experience performing facial plastic surgery procedures limit potential complications. Following all postoperative instructions carefully can further mitigate these risks.

Results of Otoplasty

You’ll see immediate changes to your ears after surgery, and your ears will settle into their new position over the next 2-3 weeks. Full results will be visible about 6 weeks after your otoplasty. 

Otoplasty scars

Otoplasty scars are typically concealed from view since most incisions are placed on the back of the ear. Incisions made on the front of the ear will fade into very thin lines and are virtually unnoticeable when expertly placed within the curvature of the ear. Scar management techniques such as sun protection and topical scar treatments can enhance healing.

How much does otoplasty cost in Houston?

Dr. DeBusk will provide an accurate cost estimate of your surgery plan during your consultation. Basu Aesthetics + Plastic Surgery offers financing options to make otoplasty easily affordable.

FAQs about ear surgery

Will I feel pain during the procedure?

Otoplasty is performed under general or local anesthesia with sedation so you do not feel discomfort during the procedure.

How long does the procedure take?

Otoplasty usually takes about two to three hours to complete and depends on your personalized surgery plan.

When can I return to work or school after otoplasty?

An otoplasty patient can return to work or school about a week after surgery; however, you should avoid strenuous activity or anything that might bend the ear for at least a month. You may need a few more days to recover if additional procedures were added to your surgery plan.

How long will the results of otoplasty last?

Otoplasty results are considered permanent. When a patient has ear surgery, the resulting size and shape should not change beyond the effects of the natural aging process.

Can ear surgery correct all types of ear deformities?

Otoplasty is quite versatile and can correct a variety of ear deformities, including prominent ears, cupped ears, lop ears, and shell ears. Dr. DeBusk will assess each patient and explain the ideal surgical options during your consultation. 

Schedule your consultation with Dr. DeBusk today

Taking the step towards otoplasty is a life-changing decision. Facial plastic surgeon Dr. Taylor DeBusk is an experienced, board-certified ENT surgeon committed to providing personalized care to each patient. In addition to ear surgery, Dr. DeBusk also specializes in rhinoplasty, revision rhinoplasty, eyelid surgery, brow lift, chin augmentation, hairline advancement and lip lifts. To find out how otoplasty can improve your confidence, comfort, and overall quality of life and schedule a private consultation, contact us online or call/text (713) 799-2278.

AREAS SERVED:

Uptown Houston

Cypress