Name: Cheng Plastic Surgery
Address: 12945 Saratoga Ave, Saratoga, CA, 95070
Telephone: (408) 255-3223
Rating: 4.9

If you’re unhappy with the appearance of your ears, whether they are too prominent, in a position you don’t like, or you regret past piercings, ear surgery can effectively resolve your concerns, with minimal risk or downtime.

What is ear surgery?

Ear surgery, also known as otoplasty, improves the appearance of the ears, addressing shape, size, prominence, position, ear lobes, and other concerns. Other ear surgeries involve reconstructing or repairing ears. These ear surgeries can resolve trauma to the ear from a dog bite, accident or earring snag, and it can also fully reshape or reconstruct an ear that is too small or otherwise unusually shaped.

Prominent or protruding ears requires a precise, exact approach from a surgeon who is comfortable with the advanced techniques a proper otoplasty requires. The purpose of ear surgery is to make the ears less noticeable or unusual looking. The work of the surgeon must result in completely natural, perfectly-shaped ears that no longer draw attention away from your face and other features.

Who is a candidate for ear surgery?

Ear surgery is for men and women whose ears are concerning them, and who would like to improve the appearance of their ears or earlobes. Ideal candidates should meet the following requirements:

Are generally in good health
Do not smoke
Have realistic expectations about what ear surgery results
Do not have a history of severe scarring

How does ear surgery work?

Before your ear surgery procedure

Before your procedure, Dr. Cheng will have a thoughtful consultation with you to examine your ears and understand your aesthetic goals. Given that every individual’s ears and ear concerns are unique and may affect different aspects of the ear, each ear surgery is a custom procedure. The first step is to evaluate the ear shape and condition. From there, Dr. Cheng will design a surgical plan to create natural-looking improvements, balancing the ears and ensuring they are attractively sized, shaped, and positioned properly against the head.

During the procedure

The most common types of ear surgery take about two hours and are typically performed under local and intravenous sedation, depending on your preferences and age.

Ear pinning, which is the most common technique used for ears that protrude from the head, involves permanent sutures that hold the ears where they should be – flatter against the head.

For patients who need their ears reshaped in some way, some tissue might be removed to create a better shape. In rare cases, cartilage is grafted from one part of the ear to the other or from the ribs to the ear.

Incisions are placed to restructure ear shape or to pin the ears closer to the head (called ear pinning). In some cases, the procedure requires removing some cartilage to help the ear lie flat against the head.

Depending on your needs, the procedure may be more involved and require rebuilding or making the ear larger. This type of ear surgery may include using an implant or a part of your rib cartilage.

Recovery after ear surgery

You will be able to return home with a friend or family member a few hours after your surgery. Your ears will be bandaged for a couple of days. Expect some discomfort, swelling and bruising, and itching for about three weeks. Pain medication such as Tylenol can be taken to help with this.

It’s important not to touch the incisions or remove bandages too early, as this could damage your results. Sleep on your back with your head elevated for at least the first week, ideally three weeks, while your ears heal.

Most patients are able to return to work or school after about a week. You will not be able to use earbuds for at least one month. Also be careful during this time while putting your phone to your ear. Wait until Dr. Cheng gives the okay before exercising or playing sports. Most people return to work or school in a week, but there should be no participation in sports or exercise until approved by Dr. Cheng.

Why Choose Cheng Plastic Surgery?

At Cheng Plastic Surgery, our surgeons—double board-certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery—approach every ear surgery with a highly personalized, case-by-case strategy. We recognize that each patient is unique, with individual preferences regarding ear size, projection, and earlobe shape. Our doctors take the time to thoroughly understand your desired outcome and work with you to achieve results that meet your vision.

We have performed many successful otoplasty surgeries for our adult patients, providing a safe, satisfactory experience as you achieve your goals for your ears.

Cost of ear surgery

The cost of otoplasty varies from patient to patient depending on what type of procedure is required to achieve your desired outcome.

The complexity of the procedure will determine the cost. After your consultation with Dr. Cheng, your surgical plan will be created, and this will include the exact price for your procedure.

Risks and complications

Like any surgical procedure, there are risks involved, such as bleeding, infection, blood clots, pain, and anesthesia risks. However, ear surgery is generally considered a relatively safe surgery.

Before your procedure, we will go over your surgery with you in detail to ensure you fully understand what it entails and what the most likely risks and complications are, such as unfavorable scarring or asymmetry.

With board-certified facial plastic surgeons who specialize in procedures like ear surgery, your chance of complications are greatly reduced.

Otoplasty FAQ

Q: Will I experience any hearing changes after ear surgery?

A: No, ear surgery typically focuses on the external structure of the ear and does not affect hearing. The procedure is aimed at aesthetic changes to the shape, size, or position of the ears rather than altering any internal structures involved in hearing.

Q: Is ear surgery painful?

A: Most patients experience minimal pain after ear surgery, as the procedure is typically less invasive. Any discomfort is usually mild and can be managed with prescribed pain relievers. Most people feel comfortable within a few days to a week after the surgery.

Q: Are there any visible scars after ear surgery?

A: Scarring is minimal and typically well-hidden, as incisions are made behind the ear or within its natural folds. Over time, the scars usually fade and become barely noticeable. Your surgeon may also provide instructions or treatments to further minimize scarring.

Q: Can ear surgery be combined with other facial procedures?

A: Yes, ear surgery is often combined with other facial procedures like rhinoplasty, facelift, or chin augmentation to achieve overall facial balance and harmony. Combining procedures can optimize results and streamline recovery for patients seeking multiple cosmetic enhancements.

Q: Can ear surgery fix asymmetrical ears?

A: Yes, ear surgery can address asymmetry by reshaping, resizing, or repositioning the ears to achieve a more balanced appearance. During your consultation, the surgeon will evaluate your specific concerns and develop a custom plan to enhance symmetry.

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