Ear Plastic Surgery (Otoplasty)
Dr. Michael A. Epstein is a gifted Chicagoland plastic surgeon who offers a variety of facial plastic surgery procedures, including non-invasive facial rejuvenation and anti-aging treatments. In the paragraphs below, he explains the Otoplasty (ear plastic surgery) procedure, how the procedure is performed, and the expected recovery time.
What is Otoplasty?
An Otoplasty (commonly referred to as Ear Surgery) is performed to set prominent ears back closer to the head or to reduce the size of large ears.
How is an Otoplasty performed?
Otoplasty is an outpatient surgical procedure performed at our facility, Northbrook Plastic Surgery. A small incision is made in the back of the ear to expose the ear cartilage. The cartilage will then be sculpted and bent back toward the head. Stitches will be made to maintain the new shape.
Another technique that can be performed is placing a small incision in the back of the ear, skin is removed and stitches are used to fold the cartilage back on itself to reshape the ear. It is not necessary to remove any cartilage for this technique. The Otoplasty procedure takes approximately 2-3 hours, but may vary.
What to expect during the recovery period:
- The head will be wrapped in a bandage for several days to promote the best healing and molding
- Ears may ache or throb a little for the first few days, but can be controlled with medication
- Stitches will be removed or will dissolve in approximately 1 week
- Any activity involving the ear being bent should be avoided for at least 4 weeks
In private practice since 1992, Dr. Michael A. Epstein has received critical acclaim for his exceptional results and advanced surgical techniques. An active member of the prestigious American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, he has been featured on numerous television programs and quoted in dozens of newspapers and magazines nationwide. A trusted resource who is highly respected by both the media and his peers, Dr. Epstein’s training, education and surgical skills have made him one of Chicagoland’s leading and most gifted plastic surgeons. His offices are in Northbrook, Illinois.
