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Otoplasty (Ear Pinning) in Conroe, TX
Ear Pinning Surgery Can Minimize Teasing & Boost Self-Confidence In The Early Childhood Years!
During the early years of school, ears that stick out can lead to teasing for children, and as we age, large or abnormally shaped ears can leave us feeling self-conscious with low self-esteem.
While prominent ears are often an inherited trait, there’s a simple solution to help you feel more confident.
Michael J. Streitmann, M.D., a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon, offers cosmetic ear surgery in Conroe, Texas to reposition the ears closer to the head while recreating the proper curvature at the top of the ears. To learn more, give us a call at 832-664-7297 or send us an email at mjs@houstonplasticsurgery.net.
What is Otoplasty Surgery?
Ear Pinning Surgery, also known as otoplasty, is a procedure wherein the shape, position, or size of the ears is altered, whether you’re simply bothered by large or abnormally shaped ears or your ears have been misshapen due to an injury. Many otoplasty patients in Conroe, TX notice the following benefits:
A Sense Of Normality:
Once the surgery is performed and the patient’s ears are reshaped, a sense of normality can begin due to less teasing throughout the childhood years – enabling a better self-image and self-esteem.
A Boost In Self-Confidence:
For many individuals with irregularly shaped ears, teasing, staring, and social discrimination are common experiences leading to a lack of self-confidence; however, after surgery, the patient is able to feel more confident.
Dr. Michael J. Streitmann will consult with you to discuss your expectations and desired outcome, as well as any potential risks or concerns, in order to ensure the success of the surgery. Once the cosmetic ear surgery is complete, the results will be well-shaped ears that help you feel more confident!
What Is the Otoplasty Procedure?
The otoplasty involves making a surgical incision behind the ear. From there, the cartilage of the ear is bent, reduced, and/or reshaped to change the appearance of the ear. The specifics of the procedure depend on what the patient’s goals are.
One of the most common goals of otoplasty is ear pinning. This involves reshaping the structure of the outer ear to position it closer to the head. Dr. Michael Streitmann will discuss the specifics of your procedure with you during your consultation.
The procedure usually takes between one and four hours, depending on the extent of the reshaping. It will be performed in a surgical operating room. Patients usually receive either general anesthesia or sedation and can go home after the procedure is complete.
Will I Make a Good Candidate for the Otoplasty?
Typically, any patient who is in good overall health and who wants to reshape his or her ears can be a candidate for otoplasty. This procedure can be done at any age. Many parents decide to do this prior to the child entering school. Patients usually have large, protruding, or mismatched ears. The best candidates are those with specific and realistic goals for the procedure.
What Is the Recovery Time for Otoplasty?
The recovery process for otoplasty takes around six to nine weeks. However, most patients return to their daily lives after about a week.
Most patients experience mild to moderate pain that can be controlled with over-the-counter medicine. There will usually be mild swelling and bruising that may persist for up to a few weeks. If you experience significant pain or excessive swelling, contact our office.
The incision site will be sutured with stitches and bandaged. You will need to continue wearing the bandages for several days. You will be given specific instructions at the time of your procedure. Additionally, you may need to return to have the stitches removed about a week after the procedure.
You should avoid wearing glasses or any other items that rest on the ears for one to two weeks after the surgery. Similarly, it is best to avoid any activities that may irritate the ears, such as firm hair grooming, wearing headphones, or side sleeping.
Most patients return to work between seven and ten days. Exercise should be avoided for four to six weeks. The full recovery will be complete within six to nine weeks.
Schedule Your Otoplasty Consultation in Conroe, TX
If you are interested in an otoplasty surgery, call us at 832-664-7297 or send us an email at mjs@houstonplasticsurgery.net to schedule your consultation. Dr. Michael J. Streitmann will discuss your goals and health with you and determine if you are a good fit for this procedure.
Otoplasty FAQs
Are there different types of Otoplasty?
The specifics of your procedure will depend on what your goals are. It may involve correcting the deep concha (the cup of the ear), the development of folds, and various cartilage abnormalities. Your otoplasty may be different if it is following an accident or injury.
How much does Otoplasty cost?
The cost depends on the specifics of the individual. This procedure may be performed as either a cosmetic or reconstructive surgery. This, along with the extent of the procedure, can significantly impact the cost. It also has implications for insurance. We will discuss the cost to you following your consultation. We are committed to helping you achieve your plastic surgery goals.
Does insurance cover Otoplasty?
Typically, insurance will not cover cosmetic procedures. If the otoplasty is being performed on an adult to change the appearance of the ear, it will likely not be covered. However, it may be covered by insurance if it is related to an injury or correcting a defect in a child’s ear. We encourage patients to contact their insurance to determine coverage.
How Should I Prepare For Ear Pinning Surgery?
You will be given instructions to prepare. This may include fasting for several hours before the procedure. It is imperative to follow these instructions to the letter. Beyond that, simply eat healthily, get plenty of rest, and exercise. We also encourage smokers to quit as this can increase the risk of infection and lengthen the recovery process.
Are There Risks of Otoplasty?
All surgeries have risks. However, Dr. Michael Streitmann and our team use the best surgical practices to minimize those risks. Significant complications are infrequent, and other side effects can be managed with medication and following post-procedure instructions. In rare cases, the otoplasty may revert, which can require a follow-up procedure. We will inform you about all the associated risks before the surgery.
What are the benefits of Ear Pinning?
Patients can significantly improve their self-esteem by altering the look of their ears. Many people with large or misshapen ears get into the habit of hiding their ears with hats, hair, and hoods. Addressing the issue and getting the ears you have always wanted can also be a very freeing experience. Most patients are very happy with the results of their otoplasties.
Does Otoplasty Hurt?
During the procedure, you will either be under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation. So, there will be no pain at the time of the surgery. Afterward, there may be some discomfort. This can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. If necessary, we may provide prescription pain medication.
Get the results you’ve always desired
Michael J. Streitmann, M.D., a board certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon , offers a wide range of cosmetic procedures. To learn more, give us a call at 713-667-4600 or contact us.