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Ear Surgery (Otoplasty)
Correct prominent ears and improve ear shape for children and adults with expert otoplasty that creates natural-looking, balanced proportions.
Ready to get started?
Correct prominent ears and improve ear shape for children and adults with expert otoplasty that creates natural-looking, balanced proportions.
Ear surgery, medically known as otoplasty, corrects prominent, protruding, or misshapen ears for children and adults. Whether addressing ears that stick out too far from the head, are too large, or have shape irregularities, expert otoplasty techniques create natural-looking, proportional ears that enhance facial balance and boost confidence.
At RIDHA Plastic Surgery in Saratoga Springs, NY, it is understood that prominent ears can significantly impact self-esteem, especially for children who may experience teasing. Otoplasty is one of the few plastic surgery procedures commonly performed on children as young as 5-6 years old once ear development is complete, though adults also benefit greatly from correction.
Advanced cartilage-reshaping techniques are used to create natural ear contours, ensuring symmetry and appropriate positioning without an operated appearance. Whether correcting one or both ears, the results are permanent improvements that eliminate self-consciousness about ear appearance.
Eliminate self-consciousness about prominent ears and feel confident in any hairstyle or social situation.
Create harmonious ear proportions that complement your facial features naturally.
Enjoy lifelong correction of prominent ears with results that don't change over time.
A well-supported healing process with personalized care and guidance.
Incisions placed behind the ear are virtually invisible once healed.
One of the few cosmetic procedures safely performed on children aged 5+ once ear development is complete.
Otoplasty benefits both children and adults bothered by ear appearance. Ideal candidates typically meet these criteria:
Children aged 5-6+ with fully developed ear cartilage, or adults of any age
In good overall health without medical conditions that impair healing
Bothered by prominent, protruding, or misshapen ears
Realistic expectations about otoplasty outcomes
Children mature enough to follow post-operative instructions
Non-smoker (for adult candidates)
No active ear infections or skin conditions
Able to wear protective headband as directed post-surgery
Ear surgery can be safely performed once ear cartilage is fully developed, typically around age 5-6. Many parents choose to have otoplasty performed before a child starts school to avoid potential teasing. However, ear surgery is also highly effective for teenagers and adults of any age who are bothered by prominent ears.
Yes! your surgeon's technique creates natural-looking ear contours and proportions that complement your facial features. The goal is to position ears closer to the head at a normal angle (typically 25-35 degrees from the head) without an operated or pinned-back appearance. Ears should look like they naturally belong on your head.
Yes, otoplasty results are permanent. The cartilage reshaping and repositioning achieved during surgery maintains its new shape indefinitely. While ears continue to age naturally along with the rest of your body, they will always maintain their improved position and proportions.
Ear surgery incisions are placed in the natural crease behind the ear where they are virtually invisible. Even when looking for scars, most people cannot detect them once fully healed. The scars typically fade to thin white lines as your body heals.
Most patients report mild to moderate discomfort rather than significant pain. Children often describe a throbbing or aching sensation. Any discomfort is easily managed with prescribed pain medication initially, with most patients transitioning to over-the-counter pain relievers as healing progresses.
Yes! If only one ear protrudes or has shape irregularities, surgery can be performed on that ear alone. However, for optimal symmetry, your surgeon may recommend subtle adjustments to both ears even if only one appears prominently different, ensuring balanced, natural-looking results.