What is an Otoplasty?

Ear surgery, or otoplasty, can help to improve the shape, position, or proportion of the ear. Otoplasty can be done to correct a defect in the ear structure that is present at birth. The surgery can also be used to treat misshapen ears caused by injury. Improving protruding, overly large or disfigured ears can help adults and children with self-image and confidence. For this reason, the procedure is often performed on both adults and children to create a more flattering look. To determine which treatment plan is right for you, Falcon Plastic Surgery has offices in Monroeville and Natrona Heights ready to serve patients.

Who is a Candidate for Ear Surgery?

Most patients who have protruding ears are good candidates for otoplasty. The procedure can be performed on young children as long as the cartilage of their ears has completed development; this can occur as young as about five years old. Often, parents choose otoplasty for their children so they can avoid bullying by their peers when they start school. Before otoplasty, you should be generally healthy overall. Dr. Falcon will examine your ears and review your health history to determine whether you are a good candidate for the surgery.

“Dr. falcon and his staff have been caring for me over 20 years. He is caring compassionate knowledge and goes above and beyond for every patient.”

What is Recovery Like After Otoplasty?

Most ear surgeries are completed with just local anesthetic, meaning that you will be awake throughout the procedure but won’t feel the ears. Despite this, it’s possible that you will still feel groggy after surgery, so it’s important to have someone drive you home after. Following your otoplasty, you should take care to keep your head elevated as much as possible. This can help alleviate any swelling. You will have bandages and surgical dressings or headbands placed over the ears and should care for them as directed. Pain medication or other medications may be prescribed to keep you comfortable. Most patients need 5-7 days away from work, school, or other normal routines. Healing usually takes about six weeks to complete, but you should notice your results immediately following surgery. Dr. Falcon can offer advice regarding caring for your ears, returning to strenuous activity like exercise, and other concerns after a post-op appointment.

Is Ear Surgery Covered by Health Insurance?

Otoplasty is typically considered cosmetic and is therefore not covered by health insurance plans. In some less common cases, otoplasty is performed to correct a congenital deformity or abnormality or the results of an injury. For these patients, health insurance may cover some of your costs. To be sure, you should contact your health insurance provider prior to your otoplasty. If you have any questions regarding insurance or financing, feel free to contact our office.

Schedule a Consultation

To learn more about otoplasty, schedule a consultation with Dr. Falcon. Call our office at (724-226-3900) or contact us online to get started. Falcon Plastic Surgery’s Monroeville Office is conveniently located 16 miles from Downtown Pittsburgh and 10 miles from Delmont.

State-of-the art, on site surgical suite located in Natrona Heights, PA

Our suite is certified with the highest level of accreditation by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities, Inc. (AAAASF).

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