Otoplastyin Albany, NY

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Although the ears are not the most centrally located feature, they can still have a significant effect on a person’s appearance and confidence if they are not proportional to the rest of the face.

Ears that are too large or that stick out too far from the head are common concerns.

These problems can be frustrating, causing a person to feel as though their ears are detracting from their appearance or unbalancing the rest of their facial features.

In turn, their ears can limit the hairstyles, jewelry, or headwear they feel comfortable in, and can impact their self-confidence and lifestyle.

In addition, children often struggle with concerns about ear size and shape, and they may experience teasing from their peers that results in persistent self-esteem issues.

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Cosmetic Ear Surgery for All Ages

The most direct and effective way for people of all ages to address cosmetic concerns about the ears is through a specialized plastic surgery called otoplasty (ear surgery).

Otoplasty is a surgical procedure in which prominent ears are set back closer to the head and/or large ears are reduced in size. Ear surgery is a highly targeted procedure that only addresses large or protruding ears. If you struggle with these specific concerns and are otherwise healthy and happy with your appearance, you may be a good candidate for otoplasty.

The procedure is most often performed on children between the ages of four and fourteen, but otoplasty can also be an option for teens and adults of all ages.

 

 

 

The expert team at The Williams Center provides cosmetic ear surgery in Albany, New York, with exceptional otoplasty results for patients of all ages. We can work with you or your child to reshape the ears for a balanced, natural appearance, restoring self-confidence and sparing younger patients from the effects of teasing.

Find out more about otoplasty at The Williams Center by scheduling a consultation today.

The Otoplasty Procedure

What Is Otoplasty?

Otoplasty is a targeted surgical procedure designed to reposition or reshape the outer ear, also known as the auricle or pinna. The goal is to reduce prominence, correct asymmetry, or refine size without altering your overall look.

Our surgeons take a conservative, artistic approach to enhance facial symmetry while preserving what makes you unique. Though commonly performed on children, otoplasty is also a life-changing option for teens and adults.

What Concerns Can Otoplasty Treat?

Depending on your needs, the surgery may include:

  • “Pinning back” prominent ears
  • Reshaping or resizing the auricle via cartilage removal
  • Correction of asymmetries in the auricles or earlobes
  • Correction of enlarged or elongated earlobes

We focus not on perfection, but on natural proportion. We aim to create balance, not draw attention.

The Otoplasty Surgical Process

Ear surgery focuses on the visible outer “shell” of the ear or ears. This includes the outer curve of the ears (the helix), the surrounding contours, and the earlobe. Otoplasty most often addresses the upper auricle, particularly when it bends away from the head. Every otoplasty is customized to the patient’s anatomy and goals.

There are several different techniques for otoplasty. Two approaches are most common: otoplasty with and without cartilage removal. Your surgeon will determine which one is best for you, most often based on whether the ears need resizing (with cartilage removal) or whether the patient only requires pinning back (without cartilage removal).

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Otoplasty With Cartilage Removal

An incision is made on the back of the ears, along the upper portion of the auricle, and hidden where the ears meet the side of the head. The exposed cartilage is sculpted and repositioned, then secured with non-removable stitches to hold the new shape. In some cases, a larger piece of cartilage may be removed to create a more natural-looking fold below the helix.

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Otoplasty Without Cartilage Removal

For patients who do not require reshaping or resizing, a small amount of skin is excised instead of cartilage. The incision is made behind the ear, and when sutured, the skin holds the ear closer to the head. This method results in a natural appearance with minimal, well-concealed scarring.

Who Can Benefit from Otoplasty?

Children

Otoplasty is often performed on children ages four and older, especially before starting full-time school. Early intervention can prevent teasing and long-term self-consciousness.

Teens and Adults

Adults may pursue otoplasty to correct long-standing concerns or age-related changes. Whether from natural shape or damage due to heavy earrings or trauma, adult ear surgery can offer transformative results.

Ideal Candidates

Ear surgery is a relatively simple procedure that comes with few risks compared to more intensive cosmetic surgeries. 

The ears are composed of easily manipulable cartilage, and otoplasty does not require close contact with key nerves or blood vessels. It is a viable option for patients of many ages, lifestyles, and skin types.

Candidates should be:

  • In good overall health
  • Non-smoking at the time of the procedure
  • Realistic about results and recovery

Recovery & Results

Most patients return home the same day with a protective head wrap. Common side effects include mild swelling, soreness, and numbness in the first few days.

At your first follow-up, the wrap is replaced with a lighter dressing. Stitches may dissolve or be removed within a week. Most patients return to school or work within 5 to 7 days.

Post-Op Care Guidelines:

  • Avoid bending the ears for 4 to 8 weeks
  • Refrain from contact sports and tight headwear
  • Wear compression bandages as advised

Long-Term Results

In most cases, the results of otoplasty are permanent. A small percentage of patients may experience a recurrence of ear protrusion, but most enjoy long-lasting improvements in appearance and confidence.

Risks of Otoplasty

While otoplasty is low-risk, potential complications include:

  • Infection or scarring
  • Asymmetry or recurrence
  • Numbness or skin sensitivity
  • Reaction to anesthesia

At The Williams Center, we work closely with each patient before their surgery and during their recovery to ensure that risks are kept to a minimum, to monitor their healing, and to address any possible complications as soon as possible. 

We provide our patients with thorough aftercare instructions, see patients regularly for follow-up appointments, and are always available to address any concerns that arise.

 

Why Choose The Williams Center?

Call us today at (518) 786-7000

With decades of experience in facial plastic surgery, our board-certified team provides:

  • A conservative, natural aesthetic
  • Extensive experience in pediatric and adult otoplasty
  • Accredited facilities and compassionate care

We would be happy to work with you to determine if otoplasty is right for you, and we will guide you through the process of ear surgery with your safety and satisfaction as our priority.

Contact us now to request a consultation for your otoplasty in the New York area. You can reach the Williams Center for Plastic Surgery online or by phone.