Cosmetic surgery is a big decision, but it comes with surprising mental health benefits. Many people choose surgery to address an aspect of their appearance that has made them self-conscious or anxious for years. Once the surgery is complete, people report that they are less depressed and anxious and feel more confident.1
One type of surgery that can improve self-esteem and confidence is ear surgery or otoplasty. Otoplasty is any procedure that changes the shape, position, or size of the ears. The procedure is relatively simple and has immediate results. Most people who opt for ear surgery are happy with the decision and feel more confident afterward.2
Types of Otoplasty
Otoplasty is any type of surgery that alters how your ears look. Some people get otoplasty to correct significant physical abnormalities. Other people are seeking small changes to make the ear more symmetrical. Otoplasty can be performed any time after the ears have reached their full size, which is usually around the age of five.
Generally, otoplasty falls into three categories.3
Ear pinning: Ear pinning corrects prominent ears that stick out. Your plastic surgeon can bring your ears in closer to the sides of your head.
Ear reduction: Surgeons can reduce the size of oversized ears, sometimes called macrotia. The surgeon removes excess tissue and reshapes the ears to make them proportional to the rest of the head and face.
Ear augmentation: In the case of small or misshapen ears, also called microtia, a surgeon can correct the shape and increase the size of the ears. This typically requires grafting cartilage and other tissues from another part of the body to the ear.
What To Expect At Your Otoplasty Appointment
Before you have otoplasty, your surgeon will discuss your medical history, risks, and instructions for before and after the procedure. You may need to stop taking certain medications, such as over-the-counter pain medication, to reduce your risk of excessive bleeding.
You may need general anesthesia during otoplasty, though some people only need sedation and local anesthesia. Depending on the type of anesthesia, your doctor will tell you if you can eat or drink before the procedure. The surgery usually takes about two hours.4
Otoplasty Costs
Otoplasty is usually done as an outpatient surgery, and you can go home the same day. Your ears will be bandaged, and you will need to keep them clean and dry for a few days. Your doctor will suggest some pain medications to help with the discomfort. After the bandages come off, you may need to wear a headband to cover your ears while you sleep. Your doctor will tell you when the stitches can come out and when you can resume strenuous activities like exercise.
Otoplasty is costly, and most insurance plans do not cover the procedure. The average cost for the surgery is about $3,700. There are usually additional expenses for anesthesia, facilities fees, and post-op care.5
If you are considering otoplasty, talk with a qualified plastic surgeon. They can help you decide if otoplasty is the right procedure for you.
SOURCES:
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons: “Inner beauty meets outer confidence: The connection between mental health and cosmetic procedures for young women.”
- Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery: “The psychological, social and educational impact of prominent ears: A systematic review.”
- Cleveland Clinic: “Otoplasty (Ear Reshaping).”
- Mayo Clinic: “Otoplasty.”
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons: “How much does ear surgery cost?”
