Ear Surgery

EAR SURGERY

Conveniently located to serve Albany, Schenectady, Latham, & Troy.

Ear surgery (otoplasty) is used to reshape or reposition prominent or misshapen ears. At The Plastic Surgery Group in Albany, NY, ear surgery is performed by our highly trained and professional plastic surgeons.

Common Reasons for Ear Surgery

Otoplasty is most frequently used to correct prominent or protruding ears by “pinning them back” closer to the head, but it can also address other concerns such as deformities from injury, birth defects, or asymmetry. Even when only one ear appears to protrude, ear surgery is usually performed on both ears for better balance. 

Who is a Good Candidate for Otoplasty?

The most common candidates for otoplasty in Albany, NY, are children with protruding, misshapen, or noticeably prominent ears. Usually, a child’s ear is fully grown and developed by the time they are four years old. Any time after that is appropriate for ear surgery.

We also perform otoplasties on adults who have similar concerns about their ears. The best way to determine if you’re a good candidate for ear surgery is to make an appointment with one of our plastic surgeons at The Plastic Surgery Group. They will discuss the options available to you and answer your questions.

What Happens During Ear Correction Surgery?

Ear surgery is typically performed on an outpatient basis and takes about two or three hours to complete. In rare cases, it may be done in a hospital, requiring a brief stay.

Most children undergoing ear surgery will be given a general anesthetic so that they are completely asleep during the procedure. Adults having ear surgery will usually only require a local anesthetic. 

Ear surgery is performed as follows:

1. The incisions are typically made on the back surface of the ear.
2. A small portion of skin, sometimes with underlying fat, is removed.
3. The cartilage is either sculpted or folded back on itself to bring the ear into its correct position (supported with sutures).
4. Sutures are also used to close the incisions, leaving a faint scar that will fade with time.

After the Procedure

Following ear surgery, most patients are up and about in just a couple of hours. Some discomfort and soreness around the ears are normal. Your plastic surgeon can prescribe medications to help ease this discomfort.

For the first few days of recovery, the patient’s head may be wrapped in a bandage that will help protect the surgical area and keep the repositioning of the ears in place for the initial healing process. After a few days, these bandages will be removed and replaced by a lightweight band. Any stitches that were placed during the surgery will usually be taken out within a week or so.

Returning to school and work will be possible about a week after ear surgery. For about a month, avoid any activities that might cause the ears to bend (like sports or wearing headwear). Patients will be scheduled for follow-up visits to monitor the healing process following ear surgery.

Benefits of Ear Surgery

• Reduces the appearance of prominent ears
• Improves ear shape and symmetry
• Boosts self-confidence
• Corrects ear deformities or injuries
• Provides permanent, long-lasting results
• Can be performed on children and adults

How Much Does Otoplasty Cost?

The price of ear surgery depends on the exact surgical techniques used and other patient-specific factors. Anesthesia fees and facility fees can also affect the total cost.

Schedule a Consultation for Otoplasty

If you or your child are interested in ear surgery in Albany, our medical team may be able to help. Contact The Plastic Surgery Group today to set up your initial consultation!

Ear Surgery FAQs

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