Upturned ears, also called “lop ear,” “bat ear” or “elfin ear,” is a common problem that affects both children and adults. 15% of the general U.S. population has protruding ears. Otoplasty (ear pinning) is commonly performed on patients with prominent ears who are bothered by their appearance and/or feel that their large ears make them unattractive or uncomfortable to be seen in public. We successfully perform otoplasty in Princeton, New Jersey, for patients looking for a solution to their cosmetic issues.
What is Otoplasty?
Otoplasty is a procedure for correcting prominent ears. The procedure makes the ear(s) more proportionate to the head. Otoplasty of one ear or both ears may be performed as an outpatient, same-day surgery under local anesthesia or IV sedation in our office in Princeton, NJ.
Otoplasty can be considered a form of cosmetic surgery / plastic surgery, but it is much more than that. It is also a reconstructive procedure (to improve the appearance or function of a body part). People who have prominent ears experience significant psychological stress and are often afraid to show their ears. By correcting protruding ears with otoplasty, they can regain their self-esteem, improve their appearance, and/or simply improve their comfort with the way they look.
Otoplasty Before and After Photos
* Each patient is unique and individual results may vary.
Benefits of Otoplasty
Properly performed otoplasty can improve appearance, relieve physical discomfort and help patients develop a more positive self-image. During an otoplasty procedure, our surgeons use advanced surgical techniques that make ear pinning surgery safe and effective for adults as well as children. Our pain management techniques also ensure that we minimize postoperative discomfort so you can be more ready to enjoy the benefits of otoplasty.
Candidates for Ear Surgery
People of all ages who have protruding ears can benefit from otoplasty. It is typically performed on teenagers and adults, as well as some younger children with chronic ear infections or facial asymmetry due to a lop ear.
- Adults and children who are self-conscious about their protruding ears
- People with significant discomfort due to pressure exerted on the ears by helmets, glasses, or other headgear
- Patients who desire more proportionate ear(s) in relation to the size of their head.
Preparation
Be sure to mention any medications you are currently taking as well as allergies. Also give the names and dosages of all your current medications, including herbal medicines. It is important that we have this information before surgery so that we can discuss possible interactions with anesthesia or prescribe additional preventive measures.
How Otoplasty is Performed
Otoplasty is performed under local anesthesia or IV sedation as an outpatient procedure, and usually takes about two hours to complete, but this may vary depending on the size of the ears and the particular needs of the patient. In adults, this two-hour procedure takes place in our office, while the patient is under mild sedation with local anesthesia or IV sedation. The incisions, closed with dissolvable sutures, are made in the crease behind the ears so that they are well hidden. Protruding ears are caused by the loss of the natural fold in the cartilage and/or having a deep ear cup. The surgery recreates a normal fold and resets the ear closer to the head. Our goal is to produce a natural-looking ear.
We can perform ear pinning surgery on young children once their ears are fully developed. In these cases, the surgery occurs while they are under general anesthesia or IV sedation, in an outpatient facility.
After their surgery, patients return home wearing a light dressing that remains on for a few days. About a week after surgery most individuals can return to their normal activities.
What To Expect After Surgery
Patients spend 30 minutes-1 hour at our Princeton office recovery room after their procedure. Patients will have pain medication for 24 hours after the surgery, followed by Tylenol (or similar) for one week following surgery. Most of the swelling is gone in two weeks, but the ears will remain mildly swollen until completely healed 4-6 months later.
After otoplasty, some temporary throbbing, aching, swelling, redness and numbness can occur. Though patients are typically able to return to work or school within a week, more strenuous activities and contact sports will need to be postponed for one to two months.
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What is the Cost of Otoplasty in New Jersey?
Otoplasty cost starts at $5800.00 and includes the surgeon fee, anesthesia charge, and a facility charge. The fee depends on whether you have insurance coverage that will help pay for this procedure.
For patients who do not have health insurance or only limited benefits, we offer flexible financing options.
In order to calculate the cost for otoplasty or any other procedure at our Princeton plastic surgery office, it is necessary to determine if you desire a primary or secondary procedure. The best way to do this is by scheduling an appointment with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons.
Why Choose Glasgold Group
Otoplasty is a complex and custom procedure that requires a high level of skill and knowledge to perform properly. At the Glasgold Group, our surgeons have decades of experience while patients and peers alike respect them for the beautiful, natural-looking results they produce consistently. By choosing the Glasgold Group for your procedure, you can expect results of the highest caliber and the knowledge that your safety and satisfaction are top priorities.
- Dr. Robert Glasgold has an American Board of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery Certification.
- Dr. Robert Glasgold is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons.
- Dr. Robert Glasgold is a co-director of the Facial Plastic Surgery Fellowship Program of AAFPRS.
- Dr. Robert Glasgold has an American Board of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Certification.
- Dr. Mark Glasgold is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons.
- Dr. Mark Glasgold is a co-director of the Facial Plastic Surgery Fellowship Program of AAFPRS.
- Dr. Mark Glasgold has an American Board of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Certification.
- Dr. Mark Glasgold has an American Board of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Certification.
Frequently Asked Questions
The swelling is gone in two weeks, but the ears will remain mildly swollen until completely healed 4-6 months later.
Typically, the ear surgery takes about two hours, though it varies from person to person.
Most people return to work or school within one week following the surgery, though results won’t show for months after.
Local anesthesia is used to numb the ears during surgery. Most people do not require any other type of sedation or pain medication for their otoplasty procedure.
You sleep with your head elevated on pillows. Most people wear a headband at night to keep the ears in place and speed up the healing process.
Yes. When you first return home, we suggest gently washing your hair with a soft washcloth and mild shampoo. Alternative methods of washing your hair that minimize water exposure include using a wet towel or shower cap.
Call (732) 846-6540 or fill out our contact form to schedule your appointment with The Glasgold Group for some of the most natural-looking otoplasty results in Princeton, New Jersey.
ADDRESS:
4390 US-1 #100
Princeton, NJ 08540
PHONE:
732-846-6540
HOURS OF OPERATION:
Mon-Thurs: 09:00 AM – 5:00 PM EST
Friday: 09:00 AM – 1:00 PM EST
Sat-Sun: Closed
PROCEDURES
Our high level of training and experience allows us to provide each patient with results that look natural and rapid recovery in the safest environment.
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