Otoplasty in Los Altos, CA
Protruding ears are a common cause of lack of self-confidence and social anxiety. Located in Los Altos, Mittelman Plastic Surgery, led by board-certified facial plastic surgeon Harry Mittelman, MD, offers otoplasty for men and women who live in and around San Jose, Palo Alto and the surrounding communities of California to correct deformed ears.
What is Otoplasty?
Otoplasty is a surgical procedure performed on the ears in order to tuck them back, reduce their size or create a symmetrical look between the two ears. Commonly, patients are four to 14 years old, though otoplasty can be performed at most any age to reshape the ears.
Benefits of Otoplasty
Ear surgery reshapes the ears to enhance their appearance and symmetry. Otoplasty may be used to tuck back ears that protrude, reduce the size of the ear or to develop a balance between both ears.
How Do I Know If I’m A Good Candidate for Otoplasty?
If you are unhappy with your ear shape or size and are in good health, you may be a good candidate for ear surgery. It is important that your expectations be realistic. We recommend otoplasty be performed at younger ages to avoid the negative social effects of large, unbalanced or protruding ears, though we do perform the surgery on adults and older children.
At What Age Can Otoplasty Be Performed?
Otoplasty is recommended for children as young as four years of age, as the cartilage is more flexible in younger children. Having the surgery performed early in life can help your child avoid the teasing that often comes with large ears or those that stick out.
What Will Happen During A Consultation For Otoplasty?
When you consult with Dr. Mittelman, he will discuss your goals for surgery and the aesthetic concerns you want to address. He will examine your ears and evaluate your medical history in order to create a surgical plan that will best address your concerns. He will discuss the techniques which will be used, recovery, anesthesia, risks and the procedure costs. Before photos may be taken at this time.
What Type Of Anesthesia Will I Receive For My Otoplasty Procedure?
In younger patients, general anesthesia is typically given, though older children and adults may only require local anesthesia paired with sedation.
How Is The Otoplasty Surgery Performed?
Incisions are made behind the ear in most cases. Dr. Mittelman will use approved techniques in order to reshape the ear and alter its appearance to produce the desired results. Cartilage may be reshaped or removed, or even folded or pinned back. Stitches could be applied to reshape the ear, and the ear may be pinned back via sutures to improve its position. In most cases, both ears will undergo surgical enhancement to achieve symmetry. A bandage will be applied following the procedure.
How Long Is The Surgery For Otoplasty?
Most otoplasty procedures last two or three hours.
Where Are The Incisions Located For Otoplasty?
In most cases, incisions will be made behind the ears.
Will I Have Scars After My Otoplasty Procedure?
Scars will result from the otoplasty incisions, but they are usually small and well hidden.
What Should I Expect Of The Recovery After My Otoplasty Procedure?
Heavy bandages may be required for several days following the otoplasty procedure. A lighter dressing may be applied later to promote healing.
How Much Time Should I Plan To Take Off From Work After My Otoplasty Procedure?
Following otoplasty, allow five to seven days at minimum to recover. Plan to return to school or work after this time, but do not resume sports or other physical activities for one to two months following the surgery.
How Soon After My Otoplasty Procedure Will I Be Able To Exercise?
Contact sports and heavy exercises should be avoided for one or two months. Stay away from any activities which could cause the ear to bend for a minimum of one month.
When Will The Stitches Be Removed After My Otoplasty Surgery?
Stitches may be taken out about one week after your surgery.
Will My Otoplasty Surgery Be Covered By Insurance?
Sometimes, otoplasty is covered by insurance. Patients should contact their insurance provider to learn about their benefits.
How Much Does Otoplasty Cost in San Jose?
Our goal at Mittelman Plastic Surgery is to make otoplasty available and affordable to each patient. We accept cash, credit cards, and personal checks.
Harry Mittelman, MD, is recognized as a pioneer in facial plastic surgery. As a board-certified facial plastic surgeon, specializing in both surgical and non-surgical or non-invasive cosmetic surgery and plastic surgery procedures, Dr. Mittelman provides his patients with exceptional skills and results that last. For more information on otoplasty or to schedule a private consultation at Dr. Mittelman’s office, please contact us today. We serve the entire Southbay and Bay Area including Los Altos, Palo Alto, Menlo Park, Redwood City, Mountain View, San Mateo, San Jose, Santa Clara, Sunnyvale and the surrounding areas.
