Otoplasty

When a person’s ears are one of his or her most distinctive features, it can sometimes leave him or her feeling self-conscious. Many patients are surprised to find out that there is a simple outpatient procedure to return the ears to a more normal position. Otoplasty is a surgery for both younger and older patients alike.

Ideal Candidates

Ideal candidates for an otoplasty are unhappy with the look and shape of their ears. Usually for children, the ears are corrected prior to entering middle school. Candidates should have realistic expectations about the outcome of their results.

Procedure

A standard otoplasty takes about 2.5 to 3 hours to complete. It is usually done under IV sedation or general anesthesia. It is always an outpatient procedure. In most cases, the incisions are hidden behind the ear in the natural creases that already exist.

Costs

There are several factors that determine the total cost of otoplasty surgery, including:

• Facility fees
• Anesthesia fees
• Surgical fees
• Prescriptions for medication
• Post-surgery garments

Otoplasty is regarded as a cosmetic procedure and is not typically covered by insurance unless under special circumstances. Feel free to contact the surgical coordinator for pricing and to request more information about this or other cosmetic procedures.

Potential Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, there are certain risks associated with otoplasty, such as scars, infection, bleeding, asymmetries, postoperative discomfort, and adverse reaction to anesthesia. Although significant complications are uncommon, patients should understand that any surgery, performed for any reason, has risks and should not be taken lightly.

Dr. Mancoll prides himself on his ability to communicate with his patients and tailors each discussion to the patient’s individual needs. Dr. Mancoll and his staff will spend time helping you understand your procedure. You should feel free to ask questions at any time, and if you don’t understand the information, we will be more than happy to go over it again.

Costs

The total cost depends on several factors, including:

• Facility fees
• Anesthesia fees
• Surgical fees
• Prescriptions for medication

Even for patients who have considerable emotional distress over the shape of their ears, this procedure is considered a cosmetic operation and is not typically covered by insurance. We participate with many cosmetic surgery financing companies, including Care Credit, and would be happy to help you with this process. Call our office for assistance.

Recovery

Once surgery is complete, bandages will be applied to the incisions to minimize swelling. Ice packs and prescribed medication will be used to alleviate any pain or discomfort that exists during recovery. Most patients return to school or work within 2 to 3 days. They may resume low-impact activity in a few weeks and high-impact activity in 6 weeks.

Results

The results of an otoplasty are immediately apparent after surgery, but due to swelling and possible bruising, it may take 2 to 3 months to fully be appreciated. The results should last a lifetime.

We welcome you to schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. John Mancoll by calling Mancoll Cosmetic & Plastic Surgery at (757) 305-9185 or filling out our online contact form. Dr. Mancoll has been voted by his peers as one of Coastal Virginia’s Top Plastic Surgeons. He is devoted to helping each individual patient achieve the best results possible.