Ear Surgery in New York, NY

Ears that protrude outward, are misshapen and uneven, or look unnaturally big can negatively impact your self-confidence, especially when young. Otoplasty (ear reshaping) is a cosmetic treatment that helps to recontour the size, position, and shape of the ears to create a normal look. Dr. Michael Koch is a skilled plastic surgeon with three facilities in New York who has assisted countless women, men, and children to overcome their embarrassment about showing their ears by undergoing this surgery. Regardless of the cosmetic issue, ear surgery allows an individual to show their face from any angle with a newfound confidence. If you or your child are concerned about the shape or size of their ears, make a consultation with Dr. Koch to find out about your options for ear surgery.

Ear reshaping surgery can be done on patients of all ages; however, it is often most common among young children and is suggested before the start of elementary school. By age six, this procedure is safe to be performed on a child. If you feel embarrassed from the shape and size of your ears because they stick out or are too large, otoplasty can be considered to attain a natural-looking appearance. If you suffer from a torn, stretched, or damaged earlobe, you are also a candidate for otoplasty.

Ear reshaping surgery is completed using anesthesia, either general or IV sedation. Most often, the incision is made around the back portion of the ear or inside the inner folds. During surgery, cartilage will be manipulated to create a new contour and natural-looking appearance. It's generally common for both ears to be altered during the procedure to ensure they look and appear symmetrical. After the procedure, the incisions are safely stitched together with sutures and wrapped so they are safeguarded for healing.

Once the procedure is finished and it is safe to leave the outpatient surgery center, you will heal and rest at home. Dr. Koch or a member of his team will send you home with recovery instructions. It is important to not pick at or touch the ears. Also, you or your child should avoid laying on the treated ear/ears, instead sleeping propped up for the first few days. Dr. Koch recommends seeing his ear surgery patients back within a week of their procedure — during this time, Dr. Koch will take off the coverings and check you or your child's ears. Natural-looking ears are visible almost immediately and the results will continue to look better as the ears heal.

How much does ear surgery cost?
Costs for ear surgery will depend on what is being performed (ear shaping, pinning, earlobe repair, or a combination). Once Dr. Koch has listened to your concerns and goals, he can create your surgical plan and estimate costs. In order for you to focus on getting the results you need instead of costs, our practice accepts many payment methods and we can help you find low-interest financing.

Will the results of ear surgery last?
Normally, the ears mature faster than other parts of the face and body, which is why an otoplasty can be done on younger patients with long-lasting results. Dr. Koch will examine the ears and then talk about realistic expectations along with how long the results may last. Even as the face and body can change due to age and gravity, the affect on the ears is usually minimal. If there are dramatic changes to the ears due to an injury, a second otoplasty could be performed.

How old should my child be to consider otoplasty?
Typically, children about 5 – 6 years of age are ideal candidates for otoplasty. While the ear is usually fully developed, the cartilage and tissue will still be soft, making it easy to change. This age is also good as it is before they start school or early in their education, so they can avoid teasing from their classmates. Although many otoplasty patients are young children, Dr. Koch also performs ear surgery on adults.

Do I need to have both ears done or just one?
The most common problems, including ears that are oversized or stick out, occur in both ears, so both will need to be fixed. During the surgery, Dr. Koch will shape both ears so they are as equal as possible. However, if only one ear needs to be changed, the size and shape will be altered to match the other ear. When he develops your treatment plan, Dr. Koch will let you know whether or both ears will be addressed.

What about fixing stretched or torn earlobes?
The popularity of ear gauges and big earrings have made earlobe repair a popular surgery at our practice. If you are interested in having earlobe reconstruction or repair, schedule a consultation with Dr. Koch. He will examine the damage and explain what might be done to restore your earlobes.

While the ears are small, an unusual size, position, or shape can make a significant difference in one's appearance. Otoplasty (ear surgery) can help your child avoid teasing at school, or help you if you have always felt unhappy with your ears. Contact one of our New York locations to schedule your appointment with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Koch and learn more about cosmetic ear surgery. We look forward to helping you gain a look you can be proud of and the confidence to flaunt it.