What is Involved in Ear Surgery?
Otoplasty is the medical term for ear surgery, but more specifically for the pinning back of prominent ears. Sometimes a different type of ear reconstruction is necessary, but it all falls under the umbrella of ear surgery.
Otoplasty can be used to correct deformities or defects of the outer ear, called the pinna, or may involve true ear reconstruction, such as what’s needed following an accident or other type of trauma.
Otoplasty is also often used to improve the appearance of the ears, sometimes by reshaping oddly shaped ears, pinning prominent ears closer to the head, or reducing the size of overly large ears.
How Much Does Ear Surgery Cost?
Ear surgery costs vary from one procedure to the next based on the scope and extent of the surgery, along with other variables that can contribute to the final cost.
board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Contogiannis will thoroughly discuss your specific case during your initial consultation and should be able to give you a more accurate cost assessment and breakdown at that time.
Insurance will typically only cover otoplasty done for functional reasons, so it’s important to check with your insurance provider to find out their policy regarding the ear surgery you’re planning to have done.
At The Renaissance Center for Plastic Surgery & Wellness, we try to keep our procedures affordable for all of our clients. We’re pleased to offer financing as an option for your ear reconstruction surgery through Alphaeon® or CareCredit®.
How Does Ear Surgery Work?
During your private consultation with Dr. Contogiannis, she’ll discuss the realistic goals of your ear surgery, and together you’ll decide which procedures will best help you achieve your desired outcome.
What Are the Benefits of Ear Surgery?
Ear surgery benefits go much further than the visible changes seen. Otoplasty can help transform a person’s life. Some common benefits include:
- Significant increase in confidence, self-image, and overall self-esteem
- Improved shape or position of the ears
- Improved proportion of ears to face and head
- Can be done on children as young as four, or as an adult
- Results are natural-looking, and scarring is minimal or well-hidden
Am I a Good Candidate for Ear Surgery?
If you’re unhappy with the way your ears look and you’re in good health, you’re likely a good candidate for ear surgery. Children can also benefit, especially if they’re teased or picked on for the size, shape, or position of their ears.
Dr. Contogiannis will help set your expectations about what’s realistic for your specific circumstances, so you’ll be delighted with the results.
What Can I Expect During Recovery Following Ear Surgery?
Some amount of discomfort is considered normal following ear reconstruction. You may experience itching beneath the bandages, but it’s important not to disturb the bandages so there’s no interference with the end results.
Any external sutures will usually be removed within about 10 days. Before you leave, Dr. Contogiannis will provide you with detailed instructions for recovery and aftercare.
To find out more about how you can benefit from ear surgery, contact our office to set up a private consultation with Dr. Contogiannis. The Renaissance Center for Plastic Surgery & Wellness is pleased to offer our services to residents in Greensboro, NC, including Winston-Salem, High Point, Burlington, and other area communities.
