Mild swelling, bruising, and tenderness are common for the first few weeks. A supportive headband or dressing may be worn, and most patients return to normal activities within a week. Full healing typically occurs over several weeks.
Otoplasty is a surgical procedure designed to reshape, resize, or reposition the ears to improve symmetry, proportion, and overall appearance. It is commonly performed to address prominent ears, asymmetry, or congenital ear deformities.
At Ottawa Derm & Surgery Centre, our surgeons focus on personalized care and natural-looking results. Each procedure is tailored to your anatomy and goals, helping patients feel more confident and comfortable with their appearance.
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Corrective Ear Shaping
Otoplasty can address prominent, asymmetrical, or misshapen ears, improving facial harmony and boosting self-confidence. The procedure can correct congenital ear differences, injuries, or ears that stick out, providing a more balanced, natural appearance that complements your facial features.
Improved Confidence
Correcting prominent, asymmetrical, or misshapen ears can help patients feel more comfortable and confident in their appearance. Many notice an improvement in self-esteem, and how they carry themselves in daily life, with results that are both natural and long-lasting.
Personalized Care
Every otoplasty procedure is tailored to your unique anatomy and goals. Your surgeon selects techniques such as cartilage reshaping, ear pinning, or size adjustment to achieve optimal symmetry and proportion while maintaining natural contours and ear function.
Otoplasty is performed through small, discreet incisions behind or within the ear to reshape cartilage and adjust positioning. Techniques may include:
Pinning prominent ears closer to the head
Reducing or reshaping cartilage for symmetry
Adjusting ear size or repairing congenital deformities
The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on patient preference and age. Incisions are carefully closed to minimize visible scarring.
Following otoplasty, patients may experience mild swelling, bruising, and tenderness, which usually resolve within a few weeks. A headband or dressing may be worn to support the ears during healing. Most patients can return to school, work, or light activities within a week, with full healing occurring over several weeks. Detailed post-operative instructions are provided to ensure safe recovery.
Otoplasty is suitable for:
Adults with prominent or asymmetrical ears
Individuals seeking improved ear shape or proportion
Patients in good overall health without medical conditions that could impair healing
A consultation with our surgical team helps determine the best approach for your anatomy and goals, ensuring results that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
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What is a otoplasty and who is it for?
Otoplasty is a surgical procedure to reshape or reposition the ears. It is commonly performed for prominent, asymmetrical, or misshapen ears in adults.
How is otoplasty performed?
Small incisions are made behind or within the ear to reshape cartilage, adjust positioning, and improve symmetry. The procedure can be done under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the patient’s needs.
What is recovery like after otoplasty?
Are otoplasty results permanent?
Yes. Otoplasty results are long-lasting, as the cartilage is reshaped and repositioned to maintain its new form.
Is otoplasty safe?
When performed by a board-certified surgical team, otoplasty is considered safe. Risks are minimized through careful planning, surgical precision, and personalized post-operative care.
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