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Reshaping the ears for greater confidence and a more attractive appearance

Ears that stick out, are oversized or are misshapen in any way can negatively impact the appearance, even when all other features are attractive. Protruding ears may cause undue teasing and ridicule for younger patients, as bullies tend to focus on traits that are outside the norm. In adults, disproportionately large ears can cause embarrassment and lowered self-confidence, and an unwillingness to appear in photographs. Luckily, there is an excellent cosmetic solution known as otoplasty, or ear pinning.

This procedure is very safe, straightforward and effective at correcting aesthetic flaws in the ears, reducing excess cartilage and reshaping the ear contours. Dr. Gabriel is a highly experienced and compassionate board certified plastic surgeon who is able to set his youngest patients at ease with humor and kindness, relieving their anxiety and delivering beautiful, natural-looking otoplasty results.

Ear surgery is an excellent treatment for any of the following:

  • Disproportionately large ears
  • Ears that stick out
  • Ear deformities
  • Pointy ears (Stahl’s ear)
  • Sagging earlobes
  • Cleft earlobes
  • Ear trauma and injuries
  • Cauliflower ear
  • Folded ears
  • Cupped ears
  • Ear asymmetry
  • Shell ear
  • Lop ear
  • Oversized earlobes
  • Missing ears

What are some advantages of ear pinning?

  • Minimized scars
  • Increased self-confidence in one’s image
  • Can help offset taunting and teasing for school-aged children
  • Can be performed on children as young as 5
  • Can correct ear injuries or deformities
  • Can help correct asymmetrical ears
  • Can help achieve facial harmony among the features
  • Can help diminish excess ear cartilage
  • In some cases, can improve ear functionality
  • Long-lasting, sustainable results

Who is a good candidate for ear surgery?

While otoplasty can be performed on children as young as age 5, they will need to be in good health with no ear infections or other medical conditions that may interfere with treatment. They must also be willing to follow Dr. Gabriel’s instructions, both before and after their surgery.

Teen and adult ear surgery candidates should be in good mental and physical health, be non-smokers, or willing to quit before surgery, and have realistic expectations for their outcome. Dr. Gabriel will meet with each prospective patient for a confidential consultation to determine whether ear surgery is a good fit.

After ear surgery

After otoplasty, Dr. Gabriel may suggest wearing a compression garment to help reduce swelling in the ears and to help them maintain their new, improved shape. Most patients can resume normal activities, work and school within 2 weeks of surgery, with full healing achieved at around 6 weeks.

If a young child is undergoing ear surgery, it is wise for them to do so during either summer or winter vacation so they can have the proper amount of time to heal and adjust to their new, more attractive appearance.

What's next?

Clients in the Vancouver, WA and Portland, OR areas and beyond should contact Dr. Gabriel today to learn more about how ear pinning can help reduce teasing, increase self-confidence and create a more pleasing overall aesthetic.

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