Introduction to Ear Surgery (Otoplasty)
At the Nikolov Center for Plastic Surgery in Beverly Hills, otoplasty is the most common plastic surgery procedure we perform on the ears. Ear surgery is usually done to set prominent ears back closer to the head or to reduce the size of large ears. For the most part, the operation is done on children between the ages of four and 14. Ears are almost fully grown by age four, and the earlier the surgery, the less teasing, and ridicule the child will have to endure. Ear surgery on adults is also possible, and there are generally no additional risks associated with ear surgery on an older patient.
If you’re considering ear surgery for yourself or your child, this page will give you a basic understanding of the procedure, when it can help, how it’s performed, and what results you can expect. It can’t answer all of your questions since a lot depends on your circumstances. If you have any questions or would like to book a consultation, please contact us today!
What is Ear Surgery?
Otoplasty, otherwise known as Ear Surgery, is a procedure to change the shape, position, or size of the ears. Reasons for choosing Otoplasty may include cosmetic reasons, based on how far your ears stick out from your head. A patient might also consider otoplasty if their ear or ears are contorted due to an injury or birth defect. Otoplasty can be done at any age after the ears have reached their full size.
What are the Benefits of Ear Surgery?
Getting an otoplasty in Beverly Hills by Dr. Nikolov comes with a favorable amount of benefits. Here are the main advantages that Otoplasty can offer:
- Corrects Numerous Issues – Reconstructive and cosmetic ear surgery are performed to treat a number of deformities, such as cupped, folded, protruding, ‘cauliflower’, large, or very small ears.
- Restores Self-Confidence – Research shows that individuals with different-looking ears have significantly less confidence and overall self-esteem. Otoplasty can restore confidence in these people by permanently correcting ear abnormalities.
- Renews the Sense of ‘Normalcy’ – After the procedure by Dr. Nikolov, most patients feel an intense emotional release when their bandages are removed along with a strong sense of new normalcy.
What’s the First Step?
If you’re interested in getting an otoplasty in Beverly Hills, the first step is scheduling a consultation with Dr. Nikolov. It’s always recommended that parents stay alert to their child’s feelings about protruding ears. Children who feel uncomfortable about their ears and want the surgery are generally more cooperative during the process and happier with the outcome.
During the consultation, Dr. Nikolov will evaluate your child’s condition, or yours if you are considering surgery for yourself, and recommend the most effective technique. You will receive instructions from Dr. Nikilov on how to get ready for the procedure. Included in this will be specific guidelines on drinking, eating, smoking, and avoiding certain medications and vitamins.
Following these specific instructions will help ensure a smooth surgery and quick recovery. Please make arrangements for someone to drive you home when the surgery is completed and also have them available to assist you for a day or two.
*Pro tip – If your hair is currently short, you may want to let it grow as much as possible prior to surgery so that while the scars are healing, it will be long enough to hide them as best as possible.
What to Expect on the Day of Ear Surgery
Before your Ear Surgery, we ask that you are aware of some minor preparation. This may include getting off of blood-thinning medications, organizing a friend or caretaker after the procedure, and getting the proper medications to take after your surgery, which our team will provide the information for. During the procedure, you’re placed under general or sometimes local anesthesia – depending on the extent of your surgery.
Once you are under sedation, Dr. Nikolov will make strategic incisions on the back surface of your ear. These incisions help correct the protruding ears by creating or increasing the inside rim of your ear (the antihelical fold), and reducing the deep concavity of your external ear (conchal cartilage). If incisions are necessary on the front of the ear, Dr. Nikolov will hide them within the folds. Some excess cartilage and skin may be removed if required.
After adjusting your ears to a natural-looking appearance, he will use internal, nonremovable sutures to secure the newly shaped cartilage in place. Finally, Dr. Nikolov stitches the incisions closed, taking extra care not to distort any other structures of your ear or create a “pinned back” look.
The whole surgery will take about two hours.
Who are the Best Candidates for Ear Surgery?
While anyone can benefit from Otoplasty, the operation is primarily performed on children, however, older patients can receive the surgery without any added risks. Characteristics that make up a good candidate for Otoplasty are:
- Able to communicate their feelings and not voice objections when surgery is discussed
- At least 5 years of age or at least have ear cartilage is stable enough for correction
- Cooperative and follows instructions well
- Healthy, without a life-threatening illness or untreated chronic ear infections
Older patients, including teenagers, should also be nonsmokers and have a positive mentality with realistic expectations to be considered good candidates. If you’re considering ear surgery for yourself or your child, it’s important to understand the full process and steps for a basic understanding of the procedure.
Ear Surgery Recovery
Adults and children are usually up and moving around within a few hours after surgery, although you may prefer to stay longer with a child until all the effects of general anesthesia wear off.
The patient’s head will be wrapped in a bulky bandage immediately following surgery to promote the best molding and healing. The ears may throb or ache a little, but this can be relieved by medication.
Within a few days, the bulky bandages will be replaced by a lighter head dressing similar to a headband. Be sure to follow Dr. Nikolov’s directions for wearing this dressing, especially at night. Stitches are usually removed or will dissolve, in about a week.
Any activity in which the ear might be bent should be avoided for a month or so. Most adults can go back to work about five days after surgery. Children can go back to school after seven days or so if they’re careful during playground activities. You may want to ask your child’s teacher to keep an eye on the child for a few weeks.
How Much Does Ear Surgery Cost in Beverly Hills?
The cost of Otoplasty in Beverly Hills is determined by a number of factors, such as what kind of work or technique is required to achieve your desired appearance. The most suitable way to understand the price of your procedure is to come in for a consultation and allow Dr. Nikolov to give you an examination. Once our team knows best how to help you, you will be provided with a cost breakdown for your entire treatment.
Why Choose Dr. Nikolov?
Dr. Nikolov is world-renowned for his keen aesthetic sense that emphasizes facial harmony and subtle changes to create a fresh appearance. Whether he’s performing plastic surgery or an in-office aesthetic procedure, he uses his skills to help every patient enhance their natural beauty.
As a leader in the field of plastic surgery for more than twenty years, Dr. Nikolov has consulted for television programs and publications and has been featured on CNN, CBS, NBC, and the Discovery Health Channel. He has published and lectured extensively in his field and often hosts other doctors to help them learn about his techniques and procedures.
“My goal is to help all those under my care achieve better harmony, feel youthful, and gain more confidence in their appearance while retaining a natural look.” — Dr. Nikolov
Get in Touch
Your ears do not need to define you in any way other than what you want. If you or your child has misshapen or overly large ears, Otoplasty in Beverly Hills can be the solution. Our team works around the clock with each patient individually to determine the most adequate treatment plan for his or her needs. Contact our office today at (310) 247-1932 or request your consultation through this website, and someone will be in touch with you shortly!
