A Delicately Crafted Ear for Exceptional Beauty
Prominent ears can be the cause of serious self-esteem issues, whether in a child or an adult. And for children especially, prominent ears can result in school-yard bullying—taunts of “dumbo” and “elephant ears” being all too common jibes among younger children. Fortunately, corrective ear surgery, or otoplasty, can be performed on children as young as five years old, and can help avert the life-long negative self-image that can result from school-age teasing. Additionally, ears that are misshapen or have suffered the effects of accident or injury can also be repaired at any age.
If you’re concerned about the appearance of your ears, a consultation at Plastic Surgery of Tuscaloosa can help you decide if otoplasty is right for you. Our aesthetic surgical center, along with the opulent Spa Belle La Vie, is located in the North River area of Tuscaloosa, where we provide a refined, sophisticated, and discrete environment.
Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ross Bunch, MD will listen carefully to your aesthetic needs and develop a treatment plan to achieve your desired goals while maintaining a focus on comfort and safety.
Ear surgery may be a good option for you if you’re concerned about:
- Prominent ears
- Cauliflower ears, or other injuries to the ear
- Ears that are too large or too small
- Ears that are out of balance with the shape of the face
- Ears that demonstrate folding or cupping defects
- Birth defects of the ear
- Lack of self-confidence from an aesthetically unappealing ear shape
Whether you, or your child, are suffering ill effects from an ear shape that is too large, too small, prominent, or aesthetically unappealing, ear surgery may be a good corrective option.
Ear Surgery—How it Works
No matter your concerns about the size, shape, or prominence of the ear, a personalized treatment plan will be developed to address your needs and aesthetic goals. There are many variations in surgical techniques, and most are conducted under local, IV, or general anesthesia depending on the scope of required remodeling. An incision is typically made behind the ear, where the contours of the face will hide it from view. In some cases, an incision will also be made within the fold of the ear, concealing any future scarring. The ear is then re-shaped—either enlarged or trimmed down, depending on your needs. Prominent ears will be pinned back with sutures to help maintain their new position. The ear cartilage will be contoured appropriately to develop the desired aesthetic effect.
Recovery time from ear surgery will vary depending on the nature and extent of your treatment plan. Many patients wear a compressive headband during the first critical days of healing, in order to encourage the new position of the ears to solidify. A light dressing is often worn for several days after the compressive headband is removed, usually within the first week following surgery. In most cases, sutures will be reabsorbed back into the skin and will not require removal. You should expect to return to your normal daily activities in about a week, taking care to avoid strenuous activity for several weeks thereafter. The effects of the surgery will be immediately evident, and a full recovery should take place within about three months, leaving you with ears that you no longer need to worry about trying to hide.
Read what our patients are saying!
"I would not have any other doctor other than Dr. Bunch! Professional Doctor, nurses, and staff! Everyone seems so happy, and I leave in the best mood! Dr. Bunch makes me feel like I’m his most important patient of the day!"
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Contact Plastic Surgery of Tuscaloosa
At Plastic Surgery of Tuscaloosa in Tuscaloosa, AL, Dr. Ross Bunch and his professional, caring staff stand out among local surgical practices for their dedication to the most advanced cosmetic and reconstructive procedures in the industry. We are well-established in the community and have built a reputation for high quality patient care and excellent customer service. Dr. Bunch is a Board certified plastic surgeon with extensive training and experience in microsurgery, facial and rhinoplasty surgeries, and endoscopic surgical techniques, and brings a specialized skill and artistry to every procedure he performs. Our mission is to restore form, function, and beauty to all aspects of your body so you look as gorgeous on the outside as you feel on the inside!
If you are interested in learning more about otoplasty or any of our facial rejuvenation procedures, please contact our office at 205.349.0049. We look forward to speaking with you and to scheduling your consultation with Dr. Bunch!
