Ear Surgery

Could Ear Surgery Be Right For You?

Ear surgery, also known as otoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure that reshapes and repositions the ears to better complement the natural contours of the face. It’s an ideal solution for individuals with ears that protrude outward or appear too large in proportion to their features.

At Couture Dermatology & Plastic Surgery in Las Vegas, board-certified plastic surgeons Dr. Marvin Spann and Dr. Mitchell Lyons perform ear pinning surgery for both adults and children (as young as age 5, when the ears have reached full development). Whether you're an adult looking to enhance facial harmony or a parent hoping to improve your child’s confidence and self-image, otoplasty can deliver long-lasting results.

Schedule a consultation with Dr. Spann or Dr. Lyons to explore your options and learn how ear surgery can help you or your child feel more confident from every angle.

What You Should Know About Ear Surgery

What Is Ear Surgery (Otoplasty)?

Ear surgery, or otoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure that reshapes or repositions the ears to improve their appearance. It is commonly performed to address ears that protrude excessively, are overly large, or have other cosmetic irregularities. Otoplasty can also be used to repair ears damaged by trauma or correct congenital conditions like "bat ears" (where the ears stick out too far) or "cup ears" (where the ear folds in an unusual way). The goal of the surgery is to create ears that are more proportionate to the head and blend more harmoniously with the face.

Ear Surgery Benefits:

Provides a more balanced and harmonious appearance by correcting ears that protrude or are misshapen.
Improves self-confidence and reduces embarrassment or self-consciousness related to ear appearance.
Can be performed on both children (typically 5–6 years old and older) and adults.
Long-lasting results with minimal risk of complications.
A relatively quick and safe procedure with minimal downtime.
A permanent solution to many cosmetic ear concerns.

TORN EARLOBE

At Couture Dermatology & Plastic Surgery, Dr. Marvin Spann and Dr. Mitchell Lyons offer expert ear surgery to repair torn or damaged earlobes caused by trauma, heavy earrings, or stretching.

The procedure involves removing the skin cleft between the split portions of the earlobe and reconstructing the lobe with carefully placed sutures on both the front and back of the ear. If there isn’t enough tissue for a smooth repair, a small graft may be used to restore the earlobe’s natural shape.

Sutures typically remain in place for 3–4 weeks as the skin and cartilage heal. They are removed in stages to ensure the lobe heals strong and looks aesthetically pleasing.

If you're ready to restore the natural contour of your earlobe, our team is here to help you feel confident and comfortable again.

Surgical Technique

The technique used during ear surgery will depend on the abnormality. First, there may be an insufficient amount of ear cartilage to support the fold of the ear, or too much cartilage where the ear canal starts. Both issues will cause the ear to protrude outward. In some cases, the ears may appear too large. Regardless of the condition, the cartilage will usually be addressed and either removed or reshaped. Then, the cartilage will be secured with sutures into a new position closer to the head. The incision is generally placed within the natural folds of the ear so scarring is not an issue.

During/After Surgery

Surgical Technique

All Otoplasties are performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure in an accredited surgical facility. The entire surgery typically takes about 2 hours to complete. After surgery, patients will be sent home with their heads wrapped in a compression bandage, which will later be replaced with lighter bandaging. Initially, patients will feel discomfort if they attempt to move their ears. This will subside in a few days. Younger patients will need to be monitored so they do not touch or play with their ears during the healing process.

What Are the Possible Side Effects?

As with any surgery, there are potential risks and side effects, though otoplasty is generally safe when performed by a skilled surgeon. Possible side effects include:

Swelling and bruising: These are common after surgery and usually resolve within 1–2 weeks.
Discomfort or tightness: Some patients experience mild pain or tightness around the ears, especially in the first few days.
Scarring: While incisions are typically made behind the ear or within natural folds, some scarring is inevitable. However, scars are usually discreet and fade over time.
Infection: As with any surgical procedure, infection is a rare risk, but it can be minimized by following post-operative care instructions.
Asymmetry: There is a small risk that the ears may not end up perfectly symmetrical, though minor adjustments can be made if necessary.
Changes in sensation: Some patients may experience temporary or, rarely, permanent changes in sensation around the ear area.

PLAN YOUR PROCEDURE

Enhance Your Confidence with Expert Ear Surgery

Recovery Time:
Recovery from ear surgery is generally quick, with most patients able to return to light activities within 1-2 weeks. Swelling and bruising may occur but usually subside within a few days to a week. Full recovery and final results may take 3-6 months as the ears heal and settle into their new position. We recommend avoiding strenuous activities for several weeks to ensure optimal healing.

Average Procedure Time:
Ear surgery typically takes around 1 to 2 hours, depending on the complexity of the procedure and the specific adjustments needed. This can vary based on individual factors and the extent of correction required.

Post-op Follow-up:
Post-operative follow-up visits are scheduled to monitor your healing progress. The first appointment will typically occur 1 week after surgery to check the incision sites and remove any stitches if needed. Additional check-ups may be scheduled to ensure proper healing and address any concerns. Our team will be with you every step of the way to ensure a smooth recovery.

Ear Surgery PROCEDURE REVIEWS

Gorgeous huge waiting room…. I have never seen a waiting room this elegant In any doctors office I have ever been to. The staff are awesome very warm and caring . A shout out to Hilda and Michelle for making me feel so cared about. Also the young lady who gave me directions made it so easy to find. I wish I could think of her name. Or something similar to Moriah. I know I’m not doing her name justice and I feel bad.

As for the doctor, he’s unbelievable. I’m very impressed with his knowledge. Wow I couldn’t be in better hands. What a great visit. We

Sunny Rose | November 2024

Am I a good candidate for Ear Surgery?

Ear surgery is suitable for individuals of all ages who are bothered by the size, shape, or position of their ears. Children as young as 5 or 6 years old are good candidates, as the ear cartilage is more pliable at this age, making it easier to reshape. For adults, ear surgery is a safe option for those who want to correct cosmetic ear issues, improve facial balance, or correct ear trauma.

Scheduling a consultation for ear surgery at Couture is the first step toward achieving a more balanced and confident appearance. During your consultation, Dr. Marvin Spann or Dr. Mitchell Lyons will listen to your concerns, assess your unique anatomy, and walk you through the procedure in detail.

Whether you’re looking to correct protruding ears, reshape their appearance, or address a past injury, we’re here to guide you every step of the way with expertise and compassionate care.

RELATED PROCEDURES

Ear Surgery Procedure

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How long does ear surgery last?

Otoplasty offers long-lasting results. The improvements made during surgery are permanent, and the ears will remain in their new, more natural position for the rest of the patient’s life.

Is ear surgery painful?

The procedure itself is performed under anesthesia, so there is no pain during the surgery. Post-surgical discomfort is usually mild and can be managed with pain medications and over-the-counter pain relievers.

Will I have visible scars after ear surgery?

The incisions are typically made behind the ear or inside the ear fold, so any scarring is usually well-hidden. Over time, scars generally fade and become less noticeable.

When can I return to work or school after ear surgery?

Most people can return to normal activities after 7–10 days. However, it's best to avoid strenuous exercise, contact sports, or activities that may put pressure on the ears for 3–4 weeks.

Can otoplasty be performed on both children and adults?

Yes, otoplasty can be performed on both children and adults. For children, the procedure is typically done between the ages of 5 and 6, after the ear cartilage has fully developed. Adults who are self-conscious about their ears or who have had traumatic injuries to their ears can also benefit from the procedure.

Will my ears look natural after otoplasty?

Yes, the goal of otoplasty is to create natural-looking ears that blend harmoniously with your facial features. A skilled surgeon will work to ensure that your ears are proportionate and balanced, enhancing your overall appearance without making it obvious that you've had surgery.

How long does it take to see the final results of ear surgery?

While initial healing happens in the first 1–2 weeks, it can take up to 6 months for all swelling to fully subside and for the final shape of the ears to fully reveal themselves. Most patients are thrilled with the results by this time.

THE CARE YOU DESERVE

The Results You Desire

Couture Medical is where exceptional care meets exceptional results. Our patient-centered approach ensures that every treatment is designed to not only enhance your appearance but also to boost your confidence and well-being. With us, you receive the care you deserve and the results you’ve always envisioned.