Otoplasty (Ear Surgery) in Virginia Beach, VA
Also serving Chesapeake & Norfolk
If your or your child’s ears protrude or are misshapen, otoplasty is the surgical solution to reshape and size your ears. Led by board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Kevin Bounds, Plastic Surgery of Virginia Beach offers ear surgery to the residents of Norfolk, Chesapeake, Newport News and surrounding communities in Virginia.
What is Otoplasty (Ear Surgery)?
There are a number of ways to dramatically change your appearance. Sometimes however, a simple, minor change can make all the difference. Because your ears are a very visible part of your body, if they stick out too far or are odd shaped, they can be the source for ridicule, teasing or jokes.
Why Would You Need Ear Surgery?
Otoplasty corrects overly large or misshapen ears on children and adults. The earlier in life the procedure is performed, the better. The cartilage of the ear is usually fully developed by four years of age, but remains relatively pliable in children, which makes shaping the ear much easier for the surgeon.
The primary goal of otoplasty is to create a normal size and shape to overly large or misshapen ears. “Ear pinning” refers to the common surgical procedure in which protruding ears are brought closer to the head.
The Otoplasty (Ear Surgery) Procedure
Ear surgery is usually performed on an outpatient basis. In many cases, otoplasty for children is performed under general anesthesia to avoid any fear associated with the surgery. In older patients, the procedure is usually performed using local anesthesia combined with mild sedatives. Techniques vary depending on the structure of the ear and the goal of the surgery.
Recovery from Otoplasty
Children generally require two to three weeks of moderate activity if for no other reason than to exercise care not to injure the ear after surgery. Adults can typically resume normal activities after just three to five days. In either case, the patient is cautioned not to bend or pull on the ears for at least four to six weeks.
Torn Earlobe or Split Earlobe Repair Surgery
Most earlobe tears can be surgically repaired with very good results. Earlobes contain no cartilage, which simplifies the procedure and minimizes any risks.
Most procedures are completed with local anesthesia in the surgical suite and usually take less than an hour. Very fine sutures are used which helps to reduce the appearance of scars.
Recovery time is usually quick, and your sutures are typically removed within two weeks after surgery. You may be able to have the ear re-pierced, but you should avoid heavy jewelry that could re-injure the earlobe.
How Much Does Otoplasty (Ear Surgery) Cost in Virginia Beach?
The price of your ear surgery will vary based on the treatment plan determined at your initial consultation. Because each case is unique, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Bounds to evaluate you individual situation and explore the cost associated with the surgery.
Depending on the circumstances for surgery, insurance may or may not cover the costs. Inquire with your insurance company to determine if otoplasty is part of your coverage. On all procedures, we are proud to offer CareCredit® and ALPHAEON financing to our clients whom wish to use convenient monthly plans. For more information, visit our financing page.
Plastic Surgery of Virginia Beach is passionately committed to reflecting your inner beauty. Using the latest and most advanced procedures for cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, Dr. Kevin Bounds and his team offer ear surgery to the residents of Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Newport News and the surrounding communities in Virginia. Contact us today!
