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Ears that are unusually large or oddly shaped can be very uncomfortable for people of any age, from childhood on. Sometimes ears may protrude from the head in a way that draws the attention of people who may not be very polite about it.
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Table of Contents
- Otoplasty for Children and Adults
- When to Consider a Otoplasty
- The anatomy of the protruding ear
- The Ear Surgery Consultation with Plastic Surgeon Dr. Bared
- Dr. Bared’s Approach to a Surgical Otoplasty Procedure
- Recovery and Results from an Ear Surgery
- Otoplasty Post-Surgical Care
- Frequently asked questions about Otoplasty
Otoplasty for Children and Adults
Miami Otoplasty (Ear Surgery) to improve the Shape, Position, and Proportion of the Ears
With children, it can be even worse and result in pointing, teasing, and name calling. It is a very unpleasant situation no matter who is suffering from it, and you may feel that it is time to make a change. Fortunately, there is a surgical procedure developed to alleviate this problem, and make it easier for you or your child to fit in and feel comfortable with your own ears. It is called an otoplasty, and it can successfully reduce protrusion and ear size to more average standards.
Dr. Bared at Facial Plastic Surgery Miami is fellowship-trained and highly skilled in otoplasty procedures. With his help, adults and children alike can have the chance to feel more comfortable about their own appearance, and avoid cruel teasing or attention.
Otoplasty Before & After Photos
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Each patient is unique and individual results may vary*.
When to Consider a Otoplasty
If you or your child is discouraged because of ear size, shape, or protrusion, this can cause psychological and emotional problems. This unhappiness with your own appearance is the first thing that makes you a candidate for otoplasty with Dr. Bared. Some of the ear characteristics that can be altered are:
- Size
- Shape
- Protrusion (sticking out)
- Deformities
- Disproportion

There are some important considerations to be made about age and health before this cosmetic ear surgery can be performed. One of the first is that if the surgery is for a child, it is recommended to be deferred until at least 6 years of age or older. By this age, the cartilage in his or her ears will be stable enough for corrective surgery. The doctor can discuss this with you to be sure that your child has reached an age safe for the procedure.
It is also important that the individual receiving surgery be healthy, with no chronic ear problems. They should also be old enough to cooperate and follow instructions for the healing process. If you are an adult seeking this surgery, you should also be a non-smoker, as this can slow the healing process. When you decide that you are a candidate for surgery, or would like to discuss your candidacy with a professional, you can set up a consultation in South Miami with Dr. Bared.
The anatomy of the protruding ear
Our ears take on their shape during gestation (when we are in our mother’s womb) and continue to grow throughout our early childhood. At about the age of 6, our ears reach a size that is about 80% of what they will be as adults. During our development, an extremely complex system of signals triggers the growth of the ear as well as determines the shape of the ear. The appearance of the ear may take on different degrees of malformation, ranging from the most apparent to minimal. The most apparent form of ear malformation is what is called microtia—whereby the ear fails to form. The complex formation of the ear relies on the formation of specific creases and folds in order for the ear to take on a normal appearance. The most common form of ear malformations is the protruding ear. The protruding is a result of two etiologies: the ear fails to form a specific fold referred to as the antihelical fold and an excess of cartilage which forms the ‘bowl’ of the ear called conchal excess.

At what age can an ear be setback?
Typically, ears can be setback any time after the age of 6 years. At the age of six, the ear has nearly reached its adult size. It is also the age before children enter school and a possible appropriate time for kids to avoid the potential social stigma of protruding ears.
The Ear Surgery Consultation with Plastic Surgeon Dr. Bared
Not only is Dr. Anthony Bared extensively trained and experienced with all forms of facial plastic surgery, he is also an ear, nose, and throat specialist. You can trust him to offer you professional service and provide you with the results you desire. As soon as you are ready to get some professional answers about otoplasty and want to consider going through with the surgery, you can schedule your consultation at Facial Plastic Surgery Miami. He will discuss with you:
- If you or your child is a candidate
- What results you want
- Medical history information
- Current state of the patient’s health
- The reasons for getting the surgery

Surgery to alter the appearance of your ears is highly individualized, so the doctor will discuss what specifically bothers you or your child, and what changes you would like to see. Dr. Bared will then discuss with you if your goals are realistic. It is a good idea for you and your child to make a list of questions and concerns, which you can bring with you to discuss. This way, you won’t forget to ask anything important, and you can feel fully informed and prepared to go forward. At the end of your consultation, you and the doctor will have determined whether otoplasty is the right course of action, and you can schedule a procedure.
Call today to schedule your consultation
305-359-7299
Dr. Bared’s Approach to a Surgical Otoplasty Procedure
Because issues people have with the appearance of their ears vary from case to case, each one works a little differently. Even so, there is a basic set of steps that takes place during an otoplasty. The surgery with Dr. Bared will include:
Anesthesia used in an Ear Surgery
This can be administered in various ways, including local, general, or intravenous sedation. The doctor will discuss these with you during the consultation, and decide what will work best in your situation.
Incision done during a Otoplasty
The location and number of incisions will depend on the type of alteration you are looking for. They are usually made on the back of the ear, or in a natural fold which will conceal any scarring that occurs after the procedure is finished. The doctor may also use internal, non-removable sutures which will create and shape cartilage.
External Sutures in an Ear surgery
These will be put into place after the reshaping and resizing is complete, and may need to be removed in a follow up appointment.
After the surgery is complete, the patient will be able to go home the same day. You will be given detailed instructions for the care of your child’s ears, and these need to be followed very carefully for a successful recovery.
My visit to Dr. Bared, was excellent, before the surgery was started I was feeling comfortable and after the surgery I was more motivated that he would do a perfect job in which he did.
- Real patient
Recovery and Results from an Ear Surgery
It is imperative that the surgery sites be taken care of as instructed by Dr. Bared. Some things to expect:
- Dressings
- Itching
- Discomfort
- Medication
- Avoiding strenuous activity
- Time out of school or work
During this time, it is important to reassure your child, and talk to them about the positive changes they should expect after healing. Typically a head wrap dressing is placed for the first several days after surgery. It is typically removed on the first day after surgery then replaced for several days thereafter. Once the dressings can be removed, you will be able to see immediate results of the surgery. You will have one or two follow up appointments to check on the healing process and remove stitches if necessary. After the dressing is removed a lighter, sports band dressing is used all day for the first week and then only at night for several weeks. This ensures that the ears are protected when sleeping. If you follow the instructions, you can expect a full recovery and enjoy the results freely.
Otoplasty Post-Surgical Care
A degree of temporary discomfort, swelling, and tenderness are common after surgery. Pain medication may be prescribed to you by Dr. Bared.
A thick dressing will be used to cover your ears after the surgery; this needs to be worn throughout the day for one to two weeks. After it is removed, you will need to use a broad headband to cover your ears and to push them back. Wear the headband day and night for a week or two. Once the ears begin to heal, you can wear it only at night for a month.
Keep your head elevated and do not sleep on your sides during the entire month of healing. When bathing, pour water over your ears gently, and when dressing, choose shirts that won’t necessitate you touching your ears.
The results of otoplasty last a lifetime. As you age, the cartilage may lose its elasticity and the ear may change subtly. However, it will never revert to the same shape or size it was before the procedure.
Frequently asked questions about Otoplasty
What Otoplasty office is near me?
If you live near Miami, FL, Dr. Anthony Bared offers Otoplasty among its services and is conveniently located at 6280 Sunset Dr #506, Miami, FL 33143.
Why Choose Dr. Anthony Bared
- Dr. Bared’s training was first in Otolaryngology at the University of Miami, followed by the awarding of a highly competitive fellowship by the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at the University of Illinois-Chicago.
- He is Double Board Certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology.
- Dr. Bared has numerous publications and has lectured at various nationwide scientific meetings.
- He also serves as a clinical voluntary Assistant Professor at the Florida International University, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine.
Otoplasty Surgery Resources
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FAQs
How much does otoplasty cost in Miami? ›
The typical otoplasty Miami cost for ear surgery is $2,500-$4,700 with an average cost of $3,550.
What is the average cost of otoplasty in Florida? ›Otoplasty Cost in Tampa FL
The otoplasty cost in Tampa, FL, is around $4,000 – $6,000. The price will be higher if the surgery is combined with other procedures such as rhinoplasty or chin augmentation. During your consultation, we will provide you with a personalized estimate for your procedure to take with you.
During otoplasty, your doctor will surgically change the shape, position or size of your ears. Incisions can be made on the backs of the ears, as shown above, or within the inner creases of the ears. Otoplasty — also known as cosmetic ear surgery — is a procedure to change the shape, position or size of the ears.
What if I am unhappy with my otoplasty results? ›Can Otoplasty be revised? Yes, if you are unhappy with the results of your Otoplasty, revision is possible after your ears are completely recovered from the first surgery.
What is the failure rate of otoplasty? ›Otoplasty has a fairly high recurrence rate, but that doesn't mean you won't see the results you want. Revisions are common to fine-tune the results of otoplasty, and these are often performed in-office under local anesthetic. Still, 80% of otoplasty procedures have a successful outcome.
What is the best age for otoplasty? ›Otoplasty is best performed on younger children whose ears have fully developed. This typically occurs around the age of five. While otoplasty can be performed on adults, most plastic surgeons recommend children undergo otoplasty while younger to minimize risk and allow for quicker healing.
How much is otoplasty in Mexico? ›Procedure | USA price | Our price |
---|---|---|
Otoplasty | $10,271 | $1,200 |
In general, post-operative pain is fairly minimal with most Otoplasty (Ear Pinning) Surgery. Often over-the-counter painkillers and anti-inflammatory medicine is all you'll need to address the pain. However, like any surgical procedure there are inherent risks involved.
What is the success rate of otoplasty in adults? ›Although there are risks involved, Dr. Weinstein's success rate for Otoplasty or ear pinning is 99%.
Can I reshape my ears without surgery? ›The only non-surgical technique which may be applicable is ear splinting, such as the use of ear buddies. Ear splints work best for misshapen ears and are less successful for prominent ears.
Can ears stick out again after otoplasty? ›
As you age, the stitch made to the side of your head might loosen slightly, allowing the cartilage of the ear to move towards its previous position. This movement is usually very small, however, and a complete return to the previous position is rare.
Can you go deaf from otoplasty? ›The purpose of ear surgery is to alter the shape of the ear. Therefore, it cannot change or improve hearing.
How long do you have to sleep upright after otoplasty? ›You should rest with your head elevated in a recliner or with at least 2 pillows for at least the first week after surgery. Try not to sleep on the side of your face but rather sleep with the back of your head on the pillow for about two weeks.
Do they shave your hair for otoplasty? ›There is no need to shave any hair during this procedure. After this the surgeon according to what he/she sees fit, will take out or rearrange cartilage, soft tissue of the ear and skin. The surgeon may also place sutures in the ear to achieve the desired shape.
Can you fix a botched otoplasty? ›Unpleasant sharp edges and bends can be corrected, for example, by a repeat suture of the cartilage edges and a subsequent revision otoplasty with suture techniques.
How long does otoplasty surgery last? ›An otoplasty usually takes 1 to 2 hours. If local anaesthetic is used, you'll be able to go home the same day. You may need a bandage around your head to help your ears heal in their new position and protect them from infection.
Is ear otoplasty worth it? ›If the size or position of your ears is affecting your self-confidence, you may benefit from ear surgery or otoplasty. This surgical procedure is carried out to reduce the size of your ears, or to move them closer to the side of your head. Otoplasty surgery has a high success rate and is commonly performed.
How do you sleep with otoplasty? ›Sleep with pillows propping your head up In order to keep pressure off of your ears, you should sleep in your bed with pillows propped up under your head,back and on your sides. This will keep your head elevated and also help you stay in a neutral position throughout the night.
Can otoplasty be covered by insurance? ›In most cases, otoplasty surgery is not covered by insurance since it is considered an elective or cosmetic procedure. However, if the procedure is recommended to ease medical symptoms, insurance may cover a portion.
How long does it take to see results from otoplasty? ›WHEN CAN I EXPECT TO REACH MY FINAL RESULT AFTER OTOPLASTY? Within 2 weeks, my ear surgery patients notice a significant improvement. Most of the postoperative swelling is gone by 6 weeks, but 100% is usually gone after 6 months, achieving the final result.
What is otoplasty recovery like? ›
One to two weeks: By now, your ears won't be noticeably swollen to other people and you will feel comfortable resuming much of your daily (and social) activities. By three months: While you'll feel healed sooner than the three-month mark, you'll need to wait up to three months for your swelling to be completely gone.
How much is otoplasty in LA? ›On average, Otoplasty can cost between $3,000 to $9,000, depending on the type of procedure you need.
Why is plastic surgery cheaper in Mexico? ›Because medical care, living costs, and medical supplies are significantly cheaper than in the United States. Besides, post-op care makes a difference since any procedure in Mexico. Regardless of how complex or simple it might be, a patient will receive the necessary care at a low cost.
How long do I have to wear a headband after otoplasty? ›Most otoplasty patients wear the headband for 6-8 weeks after ear surgery while they are sleeping and during sports activities.
How soon after otoplasty can I shower? ›You can shower on the second day after your surgery. Please avoid rubbing the back of the ears when showering as aggressive rubbing in these areas may disrupt the skin stitches and/or cause harm to the otoplasty result.
What are the problems with otoplasty? ›Complications of otoplasty have been reported in multiple studies, including hematoma, bleeding, infection, recurrence, skin/wound healing problems, scarring, suture-related problems, pain, and itchiness.
Can I walk after otoplasty? ›You can start walking immediately. You can begin exercise and/or lifting in two weeks. Additionally, you should ensure that you avoid all contact sports or rigorous activities for several weeks to avoid disruption of the healing process.
How long does incisionless otoplasty last? ›Permanent Results for Incisionless Otoplasty
The results are permanent for incision otoplasty, as the cartilage will conform to its new shape after 3 to 6 months, which ensures that the correction lasts.
Surgery of this nature is typically done an outpatient procedure with the use a general anesthetic applied to the ear to ease discomfort. During the procedure, the abnormal cartilage is either removed or sutured (closed up) to change the shape of the ear so that it is no longer pointed.
How long after otoplasty can you wear earrings? ›Do not wear earrings for 7 days. Avoid scratching or manipulating your ears for 2 weeks following surgery and strenuous activities and contact sports for 3 weeks. During healing the ears may appear slightly asymmetric due to swelling – this is transient and will usually subside within 6 months.
Why is there a lump behind my ear after otoplasty? ›
Keloid scar- this can occur in 3% of people. It is where the scar on the back of the ear keeps on growing forming a large lump. A keloid can be difficult to remove because there is a chance it may grow back. Numbness- the ear ay feel numb afterwards.
Can otoplasty cause nerve damage? ›Risks associated with ear surgery include:
Nerve Injury/Loss of Sensation: Some patients may experience temporary or permanent loss of sensation in or around the treated area. (However, there are comparatively few nerve endings in the ear that are susceptible to this kind of damage.)
You may shampoo your hair after the dressing has been removed the day after surgery. Use baby shampoo only and do not blow dry your hair or use styling products for one week. immediately after surgery. Some swelling and bruising may last 10-14 days.
How do you shower after ear surgery? ›- ALWAYS keep the inside of the ear dry.
- Shower or bathe 48 hours after surgery, but do not soak or scrub the wound.
- Place a cotton ball coated with Vaseline or an earplug in the outside bowl of the ear (don't use cotton without lubricant or push on packing inside the ear)
The good news is that, in most cases when performed on adults, otoplasty is performed under local anesthesia only. Your ear and the area around your ear will be numbed with an injection, and you may be given a sedative to calm your nerves, but you will remain awake throughout the procedure.
How can I speed up my otoplasty recovery? ›- Avoid Rubbing Your Ears. You'll need to be careful not to rub or touch your ears after your surgery. ...
- Avoid Smoking. ...
- Eat a Well-Balanced, Healthy Diet. ...
- Avoid Sun Exposure. ...
- Keep Your Head Elevated.
The cost of otoplasty at Unique Aesthetic Center is $1700- $7000 based on the type of procedure/technique used, patients' anatomy, previous injuries, and individual goals. We offer financing plans for local and out-of-town patients alike.
Is otoplasty ever covered by insurance? ›In most cases, otoplasty surgery is not covered by insurance since it is considered an elective or cosmetic procedure. However, if the procedure is recommended to ease medical symptoms, insurance may cover a portion.
How painful is otoplasty? ›Pain from an otoplasty is usually minimal. It is worst in the first 24 hours, but then it rapidly improves. It is impossible to predict a persons pain level. If you have done well with surgery in the past, you will likely be fine after this surgery.
How long is otoplasty recovery? ›Complete otoplasty recovery can take up to six weeks and during that time, you can gradually start to resume your normal activities under the guidance of your otoplasty surgeon.
How long does ear pinning last? ›
What happens during ear pinning? The entire procedure takes about two hours. You'll most likely receive general anesthesia, which puts you to sleep so you don't feel anything.
Can I drive home after otoplasty? ›Do not drive until you are no longer taking any pain medications (narcotics). Children can go back to school after 7 days, if they are careful about playground activity. Adults can go back to work approximately 5 days after surgery, depending upon the occupation. You may resume full social activities in 5-10 days.
Does otoplasty last? ›This procedure usually creates permanent changes in your ears. If you follow our instructions after you get this procedure, your ears should maintain their new appearance for the rest of your life.