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For some men, misshapen ears can cause self-consciousness if they are large or protruding. If it’s present at birth, young boys are often made fun of because of their oversized ears. If you’re looking for effective cosmetic ear surgery that can reduce the size, shape, or projection of your ears, then Dr. DiFrancesco can help.
What is Otoplasty?
Otoplasty procedures are sometimes called ear correction surgery or ear ‘pinning’. During this procedure, the ears can be reduced and brought closer to the head. It can also be used to correct deformities or injuries that affect the ears. The otoplasty surgery takes anywhere from one to three hours depending on the ear deformity, ear cartilage, and otoplasty techniques. Often, it results in a high satisfaction rate since the ear reduction brings new ears into better harmony with the rest of the face.
Candidates for Otoplasty
Men who benefit most from reconstructive surgery for their out ear are those who are self-conscious about protruding ears, ear deformation, and large or stretched earlobes and can undergo ear reshaping surgery. Dr. DiFrancesco will discuss your health history and determine the right surgical plan for your ear goals and anatomy. Your ear problems must be fully developed and no longer changing so that you can enjoy your results for the long term. In your initial consultation, Dr. DiFrancesco will asses your ear deformities and ensure you have realistic expectations moving forward.
Otoplasty Procedure
Otoplasty is an outpatient procedure that can be performed with local anesthesia and sedation at our Atlanta office under the guidance of our board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. DiFrancesco. We tend to opt out of general anesthesia due to its recovery period. During these surgical procedures, your surgeon makes an incision in the natural folds at the back of the outer ear so that cartilage can be reduced. Then, the ears are brought closer to the head to diminish unnatural contours and prominent ears before the incisions are closed. Excess cartilage will also be removed if necessary– afterward, you can return home.
Otoplasty Recovery
Initial recovery from otoplasty involves one or two days of rest, after which you can return to work and social engagements. Bruising, numbness, and swelling are common and should fade in about a week– a more adverse reaction should be shared with Dr. DiFrancesco. During the first few days, it’s important not to touch or disturb the bandages which will help support your ears as they heal. You should avoid contact sports during this time and cover the otoplasty surgical site with a loose headband.
Dr. DiFrancesco will provide aftercare instructions on how to sleep, manage discomfort, and avoid other risks. To ensure the best healing process possible, follow these instructions to the letter. Your sutures will dissolve after a few weeks, and you can return to your exercise regimen within four to six weeks. You may have some follow-up appointments to assess your surgical tape, ear augmentation, blood flow, and how the surgical technique has settled. Although your ears can still change as time goes on, many men enjoy long-term results with ear surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions about Otoplasty for Men
How long do otoplasty results last?
Is otoplasty very painful?
Do you have to shave your head for otoplasty?
Is otoplasty surgery worth it?
How much does otoplasty cost?
How long does it take the ears to settle after otoplasty?
Can you sleep on your side after otoplasty?
Can your ears get wet after otoplasty?
Is otoplasty covered by insurance?
What is the ideal age to do otoplasty?
Schedule a Consultation
If you feel self-conscious about your ears, then it’s important to know that you have options. To meet with Dr. DiFrancesco and begin discussing how ear surgery can help, contact our Atlanta office by calling or filling out our online form.