Otoplasty in Orlando, FL
Some people experience large or misshaped ears that protrude further than normal from the head. This is usually a result of the failure of one of the folds of the ear cartilage to develop fully. A child with these ear problems often faces ridicule and teasing, and adults and children alike may lack self-confidence.
Otoplasty surgery in Winter Park, FL, is a procedure offered by Dr. Brian Joseph in which the cartilage of the ear is reshaped to restore a more normal appearance. Although most often performed on children between the ages of 5 and 15, otoplasty can safely be done on older teenagers and adults. The procedure can improve the size, prominence, protrusion, and symmetry of the ears and significantly boost self-esteem.
What Is Otoplasty?
Otoplasty, also known as cosmetic ear surgery or ear pinning, is a surgical procedure designed to reshape, reposition, or resize the ears. It is commonly performed to correct protruding ears but can also address other concerns such as asymmetry or deformities caused by injury or birth defects.
Common Reasons for Otoplasty
Patients seek otoplasty in Orlando for various reasons, including:
- Protruding Ears: Ears that stick out noticeably from the sides of the head (often called “ear pinning”).
- Macrotia: Ears that are excessively large in proportion to the head.
- Asymmetrical Ears: Noticeable differences in the size, shape, or position of the two ears.
- Misshapen Ears: Congenital deformities like constricted ears (“lop ear” or “cup ear”) or Stahl’s ear.
- Ear Deformity Correction: Addressing issues caused by previous trauma or injury.
- Dissatisfaction with Ear Appearance: General unhappiness with the shape or contours of the earlobes or upper ear structures.
Highly Recommended
” I was recommended by a friend in Lake Placid, Fl. who had a procedure performed by Dr. Joseph. I drove from Ft. Lauderdale, Fl. for a consultation and fell in love with Dr. Joseph and his staff. They are very caring and always concerned for me. There was no wait time and they actually fit me into MY schedule. I highly recommend Dr. Joseph from Park Avenue Plastic Surgery.”
Benefits of Otoplasty
Choosing cosmetic ear surgery offers several significant benefits:
- Improved Ear Position and Proportion: Creates a more balanced look relative to other facial features
- Correction of Deformities: Addresses congenital issues or damage from injuries
- Enhanced Facial Harmony: Contributes to a more aesthetically pleasing overall appearance
- Increased Self-Confidence: Reduces self-consciousness associated with ear appearance
- Long-Lasting Results: The structural changes made during otoplasty are generally permanent
- Psychological Well-being: Especially for children, can alleviate social anxiety or teasing related to prominent ears
Who Needs Otoplasty?
Otoplasty is a suitable procedure for different age groups who are unhappy with the appearance of their ears. Ideal candidates typically include:
- Children: This procedure is usually performed after age five or six, when the ears have reached nearly their full adult size. Correcting prominent or misshapen ears early can prevent potential teasing and improve self-image during formative years.
- Teenagers: As self-awareness increases, teens may seek otoplasty to address long-standing concerns about their ears.
- Adults: Otoplasty can benefit adults of any age who desire ear correction for aesthetic reasons or to repair injury-related damage.
Candidates should be in good general health, have realistic expectations about the outcome, and, if children, be cooperative and able to follow post-operative instructions.
Types of Otoplasty Procedures
There are several techniques used depending on your specific needs:
- Ear Pinning (Setback Otoplasty)
This is the most common type of otoplasty, used to bring protruding ears closer to the head by reshaping cartilage through incisions hidden behind the ear.
- Ear Reduction Surgery (Macrotia Correction)
Reduces overly large outer structures (auricles) while maintaining natural contours.
- Reconstructive Ear Surgery
Used when correcting congenital conditions like microtia—or rebuilding an injured/missing part of an ear using grafts from other body tissues.
- Revision/Corrective Surgery
Performed if a previous otoplasty did not yield satisfactory results. This requires advanced skill due to scar tissue management and structural limitations.
The Otoplasty Procedure – What to Expect
During the surgery, anesthesia, either local with sedation or general, is administered for your comfort. Small incisions are typically made discreetly behind the ears. Dr. Joseph then sculpts the ear cartilage, securing it into the desired position, and may remove excess skin if necessary. Finally, the incisions are closed, and protective dressings are applied. The procedure usually lasts one to two hours, and patients can return home the same day.
Recovery After Otoplasty Surgery
Recovery after ear surgery in Orlando, FL, is generally straightforward. In the initial days, expect mild discomfort, which can be managed with medication while keeping bandages intact as instructed. During the first week, bandages are often replaced with a lighter headband, typically worn mainly at night. Swelling gradually subsides over the following weeks, and any non-dissolvable stitches may be removed around week two.
Light activities can usually be resumed as healing progresses. The final, refined results become apparent over several months as tissues settle and scars hidden behind the ears fade significantly over time. Following all post-operative instructions provided by our team is crucial for optimal healing.
How Much Does Otoplasty Surgery Costs?
The cost of otoplasty surgery is determined based on factors like medical examinations, post-surgery garments, and anesthesia. The exact techniques and the total time needed to perform the surgery will also impact the cost.
Why Choose Park Avenue Plastic Surgery
At Park Avenue Plastic Surgery in Winter Park, FL, your otoplasty will be performed by Dr. Brian P. Joseph, MD, FACS—a double board-certified plastic surgeon with decades of experience in facial aesthetics and reconstructive surgery. Known for his compassionate approach and artistic eye, Dr. Joseph has earned a reputation for delivering natural-looking results tailored to each patient’s unique features.
Our facility offers a welcoming environment with highly trained staff who will prioritize safety, comfort, discretion, and personalized care throughout your surgical journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Contact Our Office
If you’re ready to improve your ear shape or correct protruding ears, please contact Park Avenue Plastic Surgery in Orlando, FL, today. A board-certified and highly experienced surgeon, Dr. Joseph, and his friendly, well-trained staff can help you achieve the look you’ve always wanted.