Procedure Time 1 - 2 Hours
Recovery Time 28-36 days
What is Otoplasty
Ear pinning surgery, or otoplasty, is usually done to set prominent ears back closer to the head or to reduce the size of large ears. This is often performed on children after the age of 4. However, many adults opt to have ear surgery to rectify lifelong concerns and improve their self-image. If the appearance of your ears is affecting your self-image and self-esteem, an otoplasty may be an excellent choice for you.
No matter your reason or timing for pursuing an ear otoplasty, Dr. Shire at Shire Facial Plastic Surgery will guide you through your cosmetic ear surgery with the utmost care, attention, and skill. Dr. Shire is the premier facial plastic surgeon in the Chattanooga, TN area. He and his staff are dedicated to ensuring you achieve the results that you are looking for.
Otoplasty Before and After Photos
Otoplasty Procedure Overview
An otoplasty, or ear pinning procedure, typically takes around two hours. During the procedure, Dr. Shire will suture or stitch the cartilage of your ears so they are held closer to your head and heal in the desired position. Dr. Shire can also remove ear cartilage and skin as necessary, giving your ear a smaller, more aesthetically pleasing appearance and shape.
Depending on your goals, you may elect only to have the ears pinned, only have your ears reshaped, or a combination of these two aspects of an ear otoplasty. After the procedure, you will have a soft dressing over your ears for a few days.
Children typically require general anesthesia for this procedure. Otoplasty for adults can be done under either general or local anesthesia, and the options for both will be discussed in detail during your consultation.
In most cases, ear pinning surgery will leave a faint scar on the back of the ear that will fade with time. Even when only one ear appears to protrude, surgery is usually performed on both ears for a better balance. Stitches are usually removed, or will dissolve, in about a week.
Am I A Good Candidate for an Otoplasty?
Ear pinning is done on both children and adults. It is essential that your ears are no longer growing when an otoplasty is done. When you are five years old, the ear is approximately 90% of its adult size. Because of this, you should be age five or up to be a good candidate for an ear otoplasty.
You should also be in good physical health and interested in changing the appearance of your ears before pursuing an otoplasty. Dr. Shire will perform a comprehensive consultation and review your medical and surgical history to ensure that you are a good candidate for this procedure.
Why Choose Dr. Shire at Shire Facial Plastic Surgery for your Otoplasty?
Dr. Shire is the leading facial plastic surgeon in the Chattanooga, TN, area. Dr. Shire combines a passion for art and science with top-tier medical skills to ensure his patients receive the best results possible. Here's what else sets him apart from the rest.
- Experience.
Dr. Shire graduated from medical school in 1981 and then continued to receive advanced training in General Surgery, Otolaryngology, and Maxillofacial Surgery. Following that, he completed a Fellowship in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.
- Qualifications.
Dr. Shire is board-certified in multiple specialties. He is board-certified by the American College of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons and the American Board of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgeons. He is also a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons.
- Awards.
Dr. Shire is listed as one of the Best Doctors in America and has been voted the Best Plastic Surgeon in Chattanooga for the past twelve years and counting!
- Techniques Offered.
Dr. Shire offers the most advanced facial plastic surgery techniques to date. He is dedicated to perfecting his craft and has stayed current with the most cutting-edge and non-invasive procedures available. Whether you are looking to change the size, shape, or position of your ears through otoplasty, Dr. Shire specializes in getting you the results you desire.
- Location.
Shire Facial Plastic Surgery is conveniently located in Chattanooga, TN. Dr. Shire's expertise and results draw new and returning patients from both near and out-of-state.
Dr. Shire and the Staff at Shire Facial Plastic Surgery are dedicated to ensuring you are well-informed and cared for before, during, and after your ear pinning procedure. Our professional team will ensure that you have all of the information needed to know that you are making the best decision possible for your health, appearance, and well-being.
How Much Does an Otoplasty Cost?
The total cost of an otoplasty can vary depending on your unique situation and needs. Here is what you need to consider when determining your total otoplasty cost.
- The average cost of an otoplasty in the United States is approximately $4,000 to $6,000.
- The cost range of an otoplasty will vary depending on which surgical procedures are done, such as only pinning, only reshaping, or a combination of these two.
- Your total cost will vary based on the type of anesthesia needed for your procedure. Local anesthesia costs less than general anesthesia. Dr. Shire will discuss your options with you, and you will work together to determine which option is best. Facility fees may also apply.
- If an otoplasty is done for cosmetic reasons, it is considered a cosmetic procedure that is not covered by health insurance. Sometimes, an otoplasty may be done for medical reasons. In this case, an otoplasty may be covered by insurance. Speak with your health insurance provider for coverage information if you are interested in an otoplasty for medical reasons.
- You can combine your otoplasty with other cosmetic procedures, depending on your aesthetic goals. If this is the case, your total cost will reflect the additional procedures that you choose.
Since the individual needs and desires of each patient may vary, more pricing estimates and details will be provided during your individualized consultation with Dr. Shire. Now, let's discuss what to expect during your consultation and why this next step is so important!
What to Expect During a Consultation for an Otoplasty
Before your otoplasty, you will meet with Dr. Shire for a consultation. During your consultation, Dr. Shire will discuss your goals and expectations for the procedure and perform a comprehensive examination of your ears and face. This is to ensure that he is designing an ear that will both fit with your facial features and be visually satisfying to you.
- Recovery. You will wear a soft dressing over your ears for a few days after your procedure. You may need to wear a headband for a few weeks, which helps keep your ears supported in the correct place as they heal.
You may be prescribed antibiotic ear drops or ointment as your ears heal.
Any activity in which the ear might be bent, such as contact sports, should be avoided for a month or so. Most adults can go back to work about five days after ear pinning surgery. Children can go back to school after seven days or so, if they’re careful about playground activity.
Ear pinning can be accompanied by mild to moderate pain as your body heals. We will discuss pain-management options at your consultation.
- Risks. Like any surgical procedure, ear pinning has risks as well as benefits. An otoplasty procedure is well-tolerated and safe for most people.
- Schedule. You will be able to schedule your procedure with Dr. Shire after completing your consultation. It is important to ensure that you have all questions answered and understand the otoplasty procedure, risks, benefits, and recovery before proceeding with an otoplasty,
During your consultation, you will have ample time to ask any questions that you have about the procedure. Dr. Shire at Shire Facial Plastic Surgery wants you to leave your consultation confident in and excited about your decision for cosmetic ear surgery!
Most patients, young and old alike, are thrilled with the results of otoplasty surgery. Though no surgery can predict perfect symmetry, when you have discussed the procedure and your expectations with Dr. Shire before the operation, chances are you’ll be quite pleased with the result.
At Shire Facial Plastic Surgery, we understand that any type of facial, plastic, or cosmetic surgery is a big decision. Dr. Shire and his staff care for all of their patients with the utmost skill, compassion, and expertise. We look forward to partnering with you throughout your otoplasty, and look forward to helping you achieve the results you desire!
Are you ready to get started with your otoplasty in Chattanooga, TN?
Contact us today! You can schedule a consultation online, or call our office at 423-870-FACE (3223)
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