Do you feel self-conscious about your ears? At FacesFirst, our goal is to transform your idea of what you look like and give you self-confidence no matter the situation. An otoplasty, a procedure used to “pin back” or reposition protruding ears, is one of our most rewarding surgeries for patients in Denver and Lone Tree. The results of this minimally invasive cosmetic ear surgery can dramatically enhance the look of your face as well as your self-esteem.

If you want to feel confident in your appearance, call our Denver facial plastic surgery office today at 303-744-2300. Our experienced surgeons will talk through your options and address any of your concerns. Ear pinning surgery can be performed at either of our Lone Tree or Denver, CO locations, which makes the procedure that much more convenient for patients.

What is Otoplasty?

Otoplasty is a cosmetic surgical procedure used to accomplish a variety of aesthetic goals. Often, otoplasty is also referred to as ear pinning or simply ear surgery. Characteristics like overly protruding ears, large ears, or misshapen ears can cause emotional distress in both children and adults. Because the visual and psychological improvement following the operation is usually dramatic, it is one of the most rewarding procedures for both the patient and our surgeons. For this reason, the board-certified facial plastic surgeons at FacesFirst are proud to offer quality, effective Denver ear surgery for both children and adult patients.

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Gallery

Before and After

Otoplasty (ear pinning surgery) reduces the size of prominent ears that stick too far out from the head. Ear cartilage will be stitched, or pinned, closer to the head so that the ears no longer detract from your facial features.

 

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*actual patient of Otoplasty / Ear Pinning Cosmetic Surgery

Otoplasty for Children and Adults

In children, otoplasty is not able to be performed until the ears are fully developed and the ear structure has set, which usually happens around five years of age. Prior to this age, the only other option for reshaping the ears is shortly after birth with EarWell ear molding treatment. Once the ears have developed, otoplasty can be done at any time, even in adulthood, to correct protruding ears.

In younger children, general anesthesia is given to complete the otoplasty. Adults who are comfortable with it and don’t require extensive techniques typically receive twilight sedation unless they are pairing their otoplasty with another type of plastic surgery. There is little pain after surgery and the recovery takes about a week before going back to school or work. In adults, an otoplasty may be performed on an outpatient basis at our Denver or Lone Tree office or at the hospital.

Who is a Candidate for Otoplasty?

Most people over the age of five who have ears that protrude or other ear shape or size concerns are good candidates for otoplasty. Patients should also be in overall good health and have realistic expectations for the surgery. Patients should also have fully developed ears. During a consultation at our Denver or Lone Tree office, one of our board-certified facial plastic surgeons will evaluate your medical history and examine your ears to determine if otoplasty is a suitable procedure for you.

The Otoplasty Procedure

First, otoplasty patients are administered general anesthesia or twilight sedation, depending on the advice of their facial plastic surgeon. Incisions are then made directly behind the ear in the crease where the ear meets the head or the back side of the ear. Excess cartilage and other tissue may be removed to revise the ear’s projection and move it closer to the head. When your board-certified facial plastic surgeon is satisfied with the position and size of the ear, internal permanent sutures are used to keep the cartilage in its new position. Following these steps, incisions are closed with sutures. The entire ear surgery procedure is completed relatively quickly and simply.

 

Recovery After Otoplasty

To protect patients directly after otoplasty surgery, a bandage is worn around the head for a few weeks to cover the ears. Once this is removed, the patient should wear a flexible headband or hat pulled down over their ears while sleeping to protect them for another two weeks. Most patients may return to work or school in 5-7 days following their facial plastic surgery. Be sure to follow your surgeon’s instructions regarding when it is OK to return to activity, as certain activities, such as contact sports, should be avoided until the ears have fully healed. With an otoplasty procedure, the thin scars resulting from the incisions are located behind each ear and are automatically hidden by them. It is rare that anyone will notice these scars.

What is the Cost of Otoplasty?

The price of an otoplasty surgery varies depending on various factors. These include surgical techniques, the extent of the procedure, and additional fees that can impact the overall cost. For more detailed information regarding neck lift pricing, please contact our practice today.

We offer financing through CareCredit to make paying for your procedure less of a stressor. CareCredit offers 6-12 month financing options at 0% APR. We can provide you with more accurate pricing information at the time of your consultation.

Schedule a Consultation in Denver & Lone Tree

The first step in any otoplasty procedure is to schedule a consultation with a qualified, board-certified facial plastic surgeon. To schedule a consultation for your ear surgery in Denver or Lone Tree, call our offices or request your appointment online.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive after ear surgery?

Driving after ear surgery depends upon the type of anesthesia that is used. If any anesthesia is used beyond local anesthetic, then it is generally safe common sense to have a ride home immediately after your procedure. You will be able to drive within short time though.

Does otoplasty affect hearing?

No, when performed properly, otoplasty does not impact hearing. The procedure is performed on the external ear and does not involve the inner structures responsible for hearing. Patients may experience temporary sensitivity or mild numbness in the ears during the healing process, but these effects do not interfere with hearing function.

Does otoplasty last forever?

In general, otoplasty can last a lifetime after the initial healing process has matured. Since cartilage is re-shaped with sutures and other techniques during the surgery, this living tissue does need a few months to heal before it can permanently stay in the shape. Most surgeons think within 3 to 6 months it is unlikely that an auto plasty results will revert to the old shape. However this does require the patient to be careful with their ears during the healing process. Certain activities could lead to some trauma to the year that could revert the ear to its old shape and may require a revision. So talk to your surgeon about how to be careful during the healing process to minimize any problems. This is a highly satisfying procedure for most patients with long lasting results.

How dangerous is ear surgery?

Ear surgery to reshape the ears, called otoplasty is generally quite safe and highly satisfying for the patient. Any surgical procedure can't have risk such as bleeding, infection or unsatisfactory healing. Be sure your surgeon has plenty of experience performing this operation. Your individual health condition could affect how things heal or how well you tolerate the anesthetic portion of the procedure. Be sure your whole health history is reviewed and you feel well prepared for surgery.

How do you sleep after ear surgery?

After ear surgery called otoplasty is done to reshape the ears, the ears may be swollen and tender for a period of time. So you were sleeping there are a few things that can be done to protect the ears and be comfortable. Initially there may be a large padded dressing that will protect the ears and minimize any direct pressure and discomfort on the ears. Most patients will feel comfortable sleeping on their back with their head slightly more elevated to help with swelling. When the large dressing comes off you may be asked to wear a headband that also protects the ears and hold them against the side of the head during sleeping. this will prevent you from rolling over on the ear and folding it in an unnatural way. You do have to be careful because there are sutures that could release with too much trauma or pressure. Having some tenderness in the operated air is a natural protective mechanism that will discourage you from putting unhealthy pressure on the ears as well Having some tenderness in the operated air is a natural protective mechanism that will discourage you from putting unhealthy pressure on the ears as well.

How ear surgery is done?

Otoplasty is a cosmetic procedure to reshape the ears. It is most commonly done under local or general anesthesia depending on the age and preferences of the patient. Typically, an incision is made behind the ear and sutures are used to reshape the cartilage. There are some procedures that use smaller incisions or no incisions depending on the individual case. When someone has a congenitally malformed ear there may be completely different surgical considerations. Otoplasty might take 1 to 3 hours to be completed and you can typically recover at home.

How is ear surgery done?

Your surgery that is done to shape the ears is called otoplasty. Most otoplasty is done on normally form ears that have prominence of certain cartilage areas of the year or flattened folds that caused the ears to stick out. The procedure can be done under local anesthesia or general anesthesia depending on patient age and preferences. In most cases an incision needs to be made behind the ear to get access to the cartilage. Some cartilage may be removed to allow movement of the ears. Long lasting sutures are used to create folds that change the shape and reposition the ears as desired. Careful measurements are taken to match symmetries of the left and right ears. The incisions are closed behind the ears and are generally very well hidden and hard to see even with short hair or hair that is put back. A well executed auto plasty can look natural and be a very highly satisfying procedure.

How long after otoplasty can I exercise?

Light activity, such as walking, can typically be resumed within a few days after surgery. However, patients should avoid strenuous exercise, including running and weightlifting, for at least three to four weeks to prevent swelling or complications. Contact sports or activities that may put pressure on the ears should be avoided for at least six weeks or until cleared by your surgeon.

How long does it take to recover from an ear surgery?

Most people can return to nonstrenuous desk work or school after 2-4 days, but full healing, including the final refined results, can take up to three to six months. Most visible swelling from otoplasty resolves within two to six weeks. There may be precautionary measures at this time. Swelling and bruising peak in the first few days and gradually subside over the following weeks.

How long is ear surgery?

Ear surgery to reshape the years is called Otoplasty and can take one and a half to three hours of time depending on the individual circumstances of the patient's ears as well as the techniques that the surgeon may use to achieve the result. Ask your surgeon what they predict the time will be for your operation.

How long is otoplasty surgery?

Otoplasty can take 1 to 3 hours to perform. This may depend on individual patient factors and the surgical techniques used. Ask your surgeon what they predict the amount of time your operation will take.

How long should I wear headband after otoplasty?

Following otoplasty surgery, it is typically recommended to wear a headband continuously for the first 1-2 weeks. This is to maintain the new shape of the ears and protect them as they heal. Our team will provide you with detailed instructions regarding when you can remove your headband.

How much does ear surgery cost?

The cost of otoplasty may vary depending on the complexity of the procedure. To learn more about pricing, please contact FacesFirst Cosmetic Surgery in Denver and Lone Tree today.

Is otoplasty a safe procedure?

Ear surgery to reshape the ears, called otoplasty is generally quite safe and highly satisfying for the patient. Any surgical procedure can't have risk such as bleeding, infection or unsatisfactory healing. Be sure your surgeon has plenty of experience performing this operation. Your individual health condition could affect how things heal or how well you tolerate the anesthetic portion of the procedure. Be sure your whole health history is reviewed and you feel well prepared for surgery.

Is otoplasty permanent?

In general, otoplasty can last a lifetime after the initial healing process has matured. Since cartilage is re-shaped with sutures and other techniques during the surgery, this living tissue does need a few months to heal before it can permanently stay in the shape. Most surgeons think within 3 to 6 months it is unlikely that an auto plasty results will revert to the old shape. However this does require the patient to be careful with their ears during the healing process. Certain activities could lead to some trauma to the year that could revert the ear to its old shape and may require a revision. So talk to your surgeon about how to be careful during the healing process to minimize any problems. This is a highly satisfying procedure for most patients with long lasting results.

What is ear surgery called?

Ear surgery to reshape the ears is called otoplasty.

What kind of doctor does ear surgery?

Facial plastic surgeons, general plastic surgeons and ENT doctors that are trained in otoplasty generally perform most of these surgeries. It is important to discuss with the individual surgeon their experience performing these surgeries. Ask how many ear surgeries they have performed and what kind of training they had specifically in ears during their career.

What should I do after ear surgery?

Following ear surgery, you should take any pain medication as directed, follow your surgeon’s instructions regarding bandage and headband use, keep the head elevated while resting, and keep the surgical area clean and dry.

Why do my ears stick out?

When a persons ears stick out they may be called prominent ears. The most common reasons that people have prominent ears is because they may have a fold in the ear called the anti-helical fold that is weak and causes the outer parts of the ear to stick out. Another very common reason is because the inner bowl of the ear near the ear canal called the Conchal bowl is larger and also causes the ears to stick out. There are a multitude of other subtle problems that might occur as the year develops and can be described by a well-informed surgeon. Surgery to correct these deformities is called otoplasty and is usually a very highly satisfying procedure for a patient to undergo.

Will ears relax after otoplasty?

Yes, the ears may relax following otoplasty surgery, settling into a more natural position over time. This process may take several weeks to months.

Will my insurance cover otoplasty?

Most otoplasty is not covered by insurance these days. It has been covered many decades ago but this is typically no longer a benefit and it is elective cosmetic surgery. Your surgeon should be able to provide cost for this procedure.

Will otoplasty sutures be removed?

For Otoplasty there are some permanent sutures that are buried underneath the skin to hold the cartilage in its new shape and those will not need to be removed in most instances. Along the skin incision we usually use dissolvable sutures that do not require removal.

What kind of headband do you recommend after otoplasty?

After otoplasty a headband is recommended to protect the ears from any trauma or irritation while they are healing. A good headband will be soft and adjustable and something you're willing to wear all day even for a few weeks. We do have some specific headbands we will recommend but you can also choose your own and check with the surgeon that it will be OK to wear. For up to three months you want to avoid trauma to your ear that could pull any sutures out of position and compromise your results.

How often do I need to wear a headband after ear surgery?

We usually recommend you wear a headband to cover your ears all day for the first week after otoplasty. After that time. You will want to wear a headband in activities or situation where you were concerned your ears could be pulled and a suture could be compromised. This may be necessary for up to three months

How often do I need to change the donut dressings and apply mupirocin ointment?

During the first week after otoplasty you should be cleaning your wounds at least twice a day and applying the antibiotic ointment followed by the dressings as directed.

When can I wear glasses after otoplasty?

When wearing glasses after otoplasty you want to be sure the glasses are not resting on or irritating any of the wounds. Otherwise it would certainly be important for you to wear glasses so you can see!

When can I ski or wear a ski helmet?

We do not recommend you wear a ski helmet or even ski for at least six weeks after otoplasty. Such activity could pull the ear or irritate the ear and compromise your result. Beyond that there may be still some precautions that you should speak to the surgeon about.

How long will my ears be swollen after otoplasty?

Swelling is most noticeable in the first one to two weeks after surgery and gradually subsides over the following month. By six weeks, most of the swelling is resolved, though subtle residual swelling may persist for a few months. The final results become fully apparent around three to six months post-surgery.

Why would you choose to undergo otoplasty surgery?

Otoplasty is performed for both cosmetic and functional reasons. Some people choose ear surgery to correct prominent or protruding ears, improve asymmetry, or address congenital deformities. Others may undergo otoplasty to repair ear damage caused by trauma or previous surgeries. The procedure helps create a more natural ear shape and improves self-confidence for those who feel self-conscious about their ears.

Testimonial

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Dr. Cote and all staff genuinely care about their patients and the experience they have. Their priority is to make sure everyone is happy with their procedure and understands the whole process.

-Jodee D.

Dr Picerno is amazing and I adore her!
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