Ear surgery, also known as otoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to reshape and reposition the ears. It is commonly performed on patients who are unhappy with the size, shape, or protrusion of their ears. Ear surgery is a safe and effective way to improve the appearance of the ears, and can be performed on adults and children as young as 5 years old.
Dr. Michael S. Fozo, MD, FACS, is a highly experienced facial plastic surgeon who specializes in ear surgery. He has performed numerous successful ear surgeries and is dedicated to helping his patients achieve their aesthetic goals. Dr. Fozo's approach to ear surgery is highly personalized, and he works closely with each patient to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to their unique needs and desired outcome.
Procedure
Ear surgery is typically performed on an outpatient basis under local or general anesthesia, depending on the patient's preference and the extent of the surgery. The procedure usually takes 2-3 hours to complete.
During the procedure, Dr. Fozo will make a small incision behind the ear, exposing the cartilage. He will then sculpt and reshape the cartilage to create the desired look. In some cases, Dr. Fozo may need to remove a portion of the cartilage to reduce the size of the ear. Once the cartilage has been sculpted, he will use stitches to hold the ear in its new position.
In cases where the ears are protruding, Dr. Fozo will use stitches to create an anti-helical fold, which is a natural fold in the ear that helps it lay flatter against the head. He may also use stitches to reduce the size of the conchal bowl, which is the deepest part of the ear.
Recovery
After the procedure, the patient's head will be wrapped in a bulky bandage for several days to protect the ears and promote healing. The bandage will be replaced with a lighter one, which the patient will need to wear for several more days.
Patients may experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising in the first few days after the surgery. Pain medication and cold compresses can help manage these symptoms. Most patients can return to work or school within a week or two, but should avoid strenuous activities and contact sports for several weeks.
Patients should also avoid sleeping on their side or rubbing their ears during the recovery period. It is also important to avoid wearing hats or glasses that rest on the ears until Dr. Fozo gives the okay.
Risks and Complications
As with any surgery, there are potential risks and complications associated with ear surgery. These can include bleeding, infection, poor wound healing, scarring, asymmetry, numbness or tingling in the ears, recurrence of the original problem, and anesthesia complications.
It is important for patients to discuss these risks with Dr. Fozo prior to the procedure and follow all pre- and post-operative instructions to reduce the likelihood of complications.
Choosing Dr. Fozo
When considering ear surgery, it is important to choose a qualified and experienced surgeon who specializes in facial plastic surgery. Dr. Fozo is board-certified in facial plastic surgery and has extensive experience performing ear surgery. He is dedicated to providing the highest level of care to his patients and is committed to helping them achieve their aesthetic goals.
Cost
The cost of ear surgery can vary depending on several factors, including the surgeon's experience, the extent of the surgery, and the geographic location of the practice. In general, ear surgery can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $8,000, with an average cost of around $4,500.
As a highly experienced facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Michael S. Fozo, MD, FACS, is dedicated to helping his patients achieve their aesthetic goals. He specializes in a range of procedures, including ear surgery, which can be tailored to each patient's unique needs and desired outcome. Dr. Fozo is committed to providing the highest level of care to his patients and is passionate about helping them look and feel their best. He takes a personalized approach to each procedure and works closely with his patients to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to their individual needs.