Otoplasty

Otoplasty, sometimes called ear pinning, can address more than prominent ears. At Houston Cosmetic Surgery Center, board-certified cosmetic and plastic surgeon David Davila, DO, FACOS, and the team perform otoplasty to correct earlobe issues, ear injuries, or symmetry problems. Call the Houston, Texas, office or book an appointment online to see if otoplasty can help you meet your goals.

What is otoplasty?

Otoplasty is a cosmetic procedure Dr. Davila uses to correct or improve the ears’ shape, size, or position. Patients usually pursue otoplasty to address ears that stick out, but otoplasty can enhance your overall symmetry or treat ear trauma or structural issues.

Who is eligible for otoplasty?

Children should wait until their ears reach full size, which may be as early as 4-6 years old. If you are an adult, you are likely eligible for otoplasty.

What issues can otoplasty address?

Otoplasty can correct:

• Protruding ears
• Ears that are too large
• Lop ear (the top of the ear folds over and tilts forward)
• Shell ear (an ear missing the curve of the outer rim or natural creases and folds)
• Cupped ear (an abnormally small ear)
• Ear trauma, such as tearing
• Earlobe issues, such as stretched earlobes

Otoplasty can also build new ears for individuals who lost their ears to injury or were born without them.

What happens during otoplasty?

Dr. Davila discusses your goals and makes a surgical plan after a thorough physical examination. Make sure you have someone available to drive you home and a friend or loved one to stay with you for your first night after your surgery.

After receiving local or general anesthesia, Dr. Davila makes tiny incisions on the backs or creases of your ears to ensure minimal or invisible scarring. Depending on your goals, he may remove or reposition the tissue. He closes the incision with tiny stitches.

Your surgery lasts 1-2 hours, and then you begin recovery.

What can I expect from otoplasty recovery?

After a few days, the Houston Cosmetic Surgery Center team removes your bandages, and you can switch to wearing a loose headband at night for a few weeks, which keeps your ears protected while you sleep.

You may have discomfort or itching, but Dr. Davila gives detailed post-surgery instructions and can prescribe pain medication if necessary.

When will I see my otoplasty results?

Once the swelling subsides, you should see improvements within 1-3 weeks. Within a month or two, you can resume most normal activities and enjoy your full results after 3-6 months.

Whether you need to repair or reconstruct your ears or create a more balanced and symmetrical appearance, rely on Dr. Davila for expert care. To schedule your otoplasty consultation, call the Houston Cosmetic Surgery Center office or book an appointment online today.