Otoplasty Before & After Case 183

The ears have several standard features in addition to individual characteristics for each person. The ears, however, should blend in with the rest of the face and not draw unnecessary attention. Protruding or large ears may draw one's eye toward the side of the head instead of the central face and eyes, which is more desirable.

Cosmetic surgery to reshape the ear, also known as otoplasty, is performed by cosmetic surgeons to make the ears less noticeable. Modification of the underlying ear cartilage reshapes the ear for a more balanced appearance, so as not to just "pin" the ears back. Some patients with prominent ears will have surgery as a child, but those who see Dr. Chaboki have waited until adulthood to have cosmetic surgery.

This patient wanted to reduce the size of the ears in order to draw less attention to them. Cosmetic otoplasty surgery was performed in the office via local anesthesia with Dr. Chaboki, a board certified Washington DC facial plastic surgeon. The vertical height remained the same while the ears were reshaped for a natural appearance. The patient now reports more confidence and is very happy with the improvement.