What is Ear Surgery?
Otoplasty, commonly referred to as ear surgery, is designed to alter the shape, size, or position of the ears to achieve improved aesthetic balance or functional correction. The procedure can enhance facial symmetry, thereby contributing to increased psychological well-being and self-esteem. A variety of surgical techniques are available, and the optimal approach is determined collaboratively during the preoperative consultation, based on the patient’s unique anatomical features and treatment objectives.
The Aesthetica Difference
Our plastic surgeons at Aesthetica bring over 25 years of combined experience to the practice performing otoplasty procedures, helping patients achieve balanced and natural ear contours. Otoplasty, or ear reshaping surgery, requires a high level of surgical precision and aesthetic judgment to reposition or reshape the ears while preserving vital structures such as sensory nerves and ensuring minimal, well-concealed incisions.
Our Surgeons extensive experience and refined artistic approach enable them to deliver results that are both natural in appearance and tailored to each patient’s unique anatomy.
Journey To Confidence
At your consultation, you will meet with our patient care team to review your medical history as well as your goals for surgery. You will then meet with your surgeon to discuss the details of the procedure, recovery, and expectations as well as create a surgical plan to achieve results that improve facial balance and symmetry. Please come to the office with your hair pulled back. Our office staff will provide you with a surgical quote and assist in scheduling a surgery date.
You will have a pre-operative appointment three weeks prior to surgery. At this appointment, you will sign surgical consents, discuss any last minute questions and concerns, get your pre surgery goodie bag and get further pre- and post-surgery instructions. Photos will be taken at this appointment so please come with your hair pulled back.
You will arrive at our accredited surgery center about an hour before the procedure begins. You will meet with our incredible surgical team to get you comfortable in preparation for your upcoming procedure. The procedure typically takes between 2-4 hours after which you will recover in our post surgical recovery room until your caregiver arrives to pick you up.
After surgery, you may notice some bruising, swelling and inflammation. You may feel tightness and pressure around the ears that should subside over the next couple weeks. The procedure is a same day surgery. Make sure you are walking frequently, drinking lots of fluids and eating or drinking protein to aid in a smooth recovery.
Bruising and swelling will start within 1-3 days. Make sure to take your Bromelain and Arnica to minimize the effects of bruising and swelling. You may feel tightness, tingling, and numbness that should start to subside over the next few weeks. Most patients will wear a wrap around the ears for the first couple weeks day and night and then at night for an additional 6 weeks. You will need to avoid strenuous activity for the first 2-3 weeks. Make sure to keep your head elevated, stay hydrated and get plenty of rest to aid in healing.
Ear surgery commonly fixes protruding ears with visible results noticeable immediately after surgery. Patients love the improved facial harmony and balance as their reshaped and repositioned ears sit closer to the head.
Aesthetica Plastic Surgery Reviews
Dr Curiel does a great job at making sure everything looks good, even when something happens during the recovery time.
Dr. Curiel has been extremely professional and has made this experience better than I hoped. I would recommend him to anyone looking for a wonderful surgeon.
Dr. Curiel was fantastic to work with. He spent the time with me to talk through options to make sure I was going to get the exact result I wanted. He was very attentive and thorough with my medical history. Extremely happy with my results! I can’t recommend Dr. Curiel enough.
I had such a great experience!! I had stretched earlobes which I hated, and after this surgery my ear looks amazing!! I was able to get it re-pierced, and the scaring is super minimal and not noticeable. I’m super happy I chose to come to Dr. Curiel!!
THE BEST. 10/10 recommend. Changed myLifeDr. Curiel is amazing. He did the most amazing job. My before and after are LIFE CHANGING!! I am so grateful to him!!! And I’ve been healing AMAZING! Literally the best thing I’ve ever done.
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Total Reviews
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Average Rating
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Frequently Asked Questions
What concerns can ear surgery address?
- Overly large ears – a condition called macrotia
- Protruding ears occurring on one or both sides in varying degrees – not associated with hearing loss
Who is a good candidate for ear surgery?
Ear surgery is generally appropriate for healthy individuals aged 8 and older, as the ear cartilage has typically developed enough by this age to undergo corrective procedures. Ideal pediatric candidates are in good overall health, without serious medical conditions or unresolved chronic ear infections. Teenagers and adults seeking otoplasty should also be in stable health and free from illnesses or medical issues that could interfere with proper healing or recovery.
How long is recovery after ear surgery?
The recovery for ear surgery is often less than expected. Patients need to avoid strenuous activity and lifting items heavier than 5 pounds for 2 weeks after surgery. Patients will also wear an ear band day and night for 2 weeks and then just at night for an additional 6 weeks.
At what age do Salt Lake City patients typically consider ear surgery?
While ear surgery is commonly performed on children and teens, many adults also choose the procedure later in life to improve ear symmetry or correct concerns that have affected their confidence for years. Patients from Salt Lake City and throughout Northern Utah often consider ear surgery once they feel ready to achieve a more balanced facial appearance.