Ear Reshaping Surgery for a more Symmetrical, Proportionate Face
Overly large or protruding ears can be a major source of insecurity and embarrassment for children and adults alike. After all, no one likes being called Dumbo. Many adults and parents of children who have overly large or protruding ears seek surgical solutions like ear reshaping to address these imperfections.
Cosmetic ear surgery can correct a multitude of concerns including the shape, position and size of your ears for a more balanced face.
Find Facial Balance with Ear Surgery
Ear surgery also known as otoplasty is a cosmetic procedure that improves the shape, position and proportion of the ear. This reshaping surgery creates a more natural shape while bringing balance and proportion to the ears and face. It is usually performed on both ears to ensure symmetry. Candidates for ear surgery should be older 5 years old as the ears do not fully develop until age 4. Most patients are between 5 and 14 years old. However, adults can also benefit from ear reshaping if they are dissatisfied with their appearance such as:
- Protruding ears
- “Lop” ears where the tip of the ear seems to fold down and forward
- “Cupped” ears which are unusually small ears
- “Shell” ears where the curve of the outer rim (as well as the natural fold and creases) are missing
- Large or stretched earlobes
- Earlobes with large creases and/or wrinkles
Ear surgery at Artemedica in Santa Rosa
During the procedure, your cosmetic surgeon will begin by making an incision behind the ear at the point where the ear joins the head. They will then sculpt the cartilage and bend it back toward the head for a more streamlined silhouette. Occasionally, the surgeon may remove excess cartilage for a more natural-looking fold. Alternatively, your facial plastic surgeon may opt to remove excess skin to fold the cartilage back on itself and reshape the ear without removing any cartilage. Your surgery will depend ultimately on your cosmetic goals and your surgeon’s approach. Any scars will be hidden in the natural crease formed where your ear joins your head.
No two ear reshaping procedures are the same. Artemedica’s Dr. Lacombe tailors each surgery to meet each patient’s unique goals. Whether you’re looking to correct protruding ears or stretched earlobes, Dr. Lacombe will discuss your options with you to determine which technique best meets your needs. No matter what you’re looking to accomplish with surgery, Dr. Lacombe will work with you to make sure you are happy with your results.
The recovery process after surgery
Although individual results will vary, most adult patients can return to work within a day or two following surgery. Children, on the other hand, should wait a week or so before returning to school. They should be especially careful to take it easy especially concerning any playground or physical activities. You may want to inform your child’s teachers and ask for their participation in monitoring your child during school hours. Both adults and children should be sure to follow all instructions and guidelines given by their surgeon. This will ensure proper recovery.
Ear Reshaping Surgery with Dr. Lacombe
Dr. Lacombe has devoted his 30 year career to helping Santa Rosa residents reach their facial plastic surgery goals. In fact, he co-authored Lasers in Aesthetic Surgery which is considered a standard must-read textbook for aspiring plastic surgeons. Dr. Lacombe is certified by both the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery as well as the American Board of Otolaryngology (Head and Neck Surgery). Many men and women in Santa Rosa and throughout Sonoma County choose Dr. Lacombe as their plastic surgeon of choice because of his experience, his skill, and his passion for helping his patients.
If you are interested in ear surgery or other facial plastic surgery procedures, please contact our Santa Rosa surgical office at (707) 577-8292 for your free consultation.
