Roseville Otoplasty (Ear Surgery) at Roseville Facial Plastic Surgery

Otoplasty is a satisfying procedure that restores the ears to a normal appearance. We can perform this surgery on adults or children as long as the child’s ears are fully developed. In some children, ear surgery is possible when they are as young as five years old, preventing them from having to endure bullying in school.

The procedure might include reshaping a portion of the ears, reducing the size of the ears, repairing an injury, or moving protruding ears closer to the head.

Dr. David J. Kiener, M.D.

We have the experience to evaluate the ear problem and determine a surgical plan to make the ears look more normal. Sometimes, this may involve grafting cartilage from one part of the ear to the other. In more severe cases, such as with a condition called microtia in which the ear didn’t develop normally, cartilage may be grafted from the ribs, although this is unusual.

—Dr. David J. Kiener, M.D.

We will spend time with you in consultation, answering all of your questions so that you feel confident about your ear surgery and fully understand what Dr. Kiener plans to do to improve the look of your ears.

What can be accomplished by a Roseville Ear Surgery?

While many people seek otoplasty because their ears stick out, Dr. Kiener also corrects a number of other ear abnormalities. These include:

  • Torn earlobes and elongated piercings (usually from earrings)
  • Misshapen ears
  • Ears that are considered too large
  • Asymmetrical or mismatched ears
  • Injuries to the ear

How does Roseville Facial Plastic Surgery Approach Otoplasty?

If the patient is a child, otoplasty is performed using general anesthesia. Adults can opt to have the surgery done under a local anesthetic and sedation. The surgery takes 1 to 1-1/2 hours

Ears that protrude are “pinned” to the deep tissues behind the ears with permanent sutures that hold them in place. In addition, cartilage is often trimmed from a prominent conchal bowl (the area immediately behind the ear canal) to set the ear back. Permanent sutures are also often used to create a typical “anti-helical fold” that may be absent or reduced in many patients.

No two otoplasties are precisely the same. Procedures are performed to correct the abnormality after a candid discussion with the patient or the child patient’s parents.

The incisions are made behind the ear, so they are almost impossible to see after recovery.

Otoplasty is an outpatient procedure which means you can go home a few hours after the surgery has been completed, provided someone drives you home.

What is Recovery Like After Roseville Otoplasty?

You will need about seven to ten days off from work or school for recovery. There is, of course, some mild swelling, bruising, and tenderness after the surgery. You can keep swelling down to some degree by sleeping with your head elevated during your recovery period. We will prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection, as well as pain medication to ease discomfort.

You will be sent home with bandages over the ears, which will be removed in about a week. Sutures are generally removed around seven to ten days after surgery. In some cases, especially in children, the skin sutures may be absorbable or placed in a way that they do not need to be removed. After that, you will wear a headband as much as possible for four to six weeks. You should avoid using ear buds for at least a few weeks.

Your ears must be carefully protected for at least a month after the surgery. For this reason, it is important to avoid vigorous exercise and sports during this healing period.

You will follow up with us several times after your surgery to ensure that you are healing well and that you are happy with your results.

Schedule an Otoplasty Consultation

Call us for a consultation appointment to discuss how otoplasty can improve the appearance of your ears or your child’s ears.

Call us at 916.773.0395 or
Request a Consultation

 

Roseville Otoplasty FAQs

Q. WHO IS A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR ROSEVILLE EAR SURGERY?

Patients who feel uncomfortable about their ear size or shape are good otoplasty candidates. These surgeries are typically performed as early as possible in a person’s life. However, most people’s ears are fully developed at five or six, so any older child can receive the surgery. In addition, completing this procedure while the patient is young can minimize teasing, bullying, and self-esteem issues for the child in the future. We will review this information in detail during your consultation.

Q. WHEN IS EAR SURGERY NOT OPTIMAL?

Any person whose ears are not mature is not a candidate for otoplasty. During the consultation stage, Dr. Keiner collects enough information about why your child needs this surgery. He may suggest this procedure will not provide adequate aesthetic alteration to their ear(s) in some cases, recommending that the surgery should not be considered. Our top priorities are the safety and overall health of the patient.

Q. DOES INSURANCE COVER EAR SURGERY? HOW MUCH DOES OTOPLASTY COST?

In most cases, insurance companies do not provide coverage for this type of cosmetic surgery. However, some carriers may cover the cost of the ear issues arising from trauma or a genetic dispensation. Before considering the operation, you should talk with your insurance company.

Ear surgery costs vary when considering anesthesia, operating room facilities, and other related expenses. Therefore, a detailed estimate for the operation will be provided after your consultation.

Q. WHY SHOULD I CHOOSE DR. DAVID KEINER FOR MY CHILD’S EAR SURGERY?

Dr. Keiner has undergone extensive training and performed countless facial plastic surgeries over more than twenty-five years. He is certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology.