Ear Surgery

Abnormally shaped or large, protruding ears can be the cause of embarrassment and self-consciousness in some adults, as well as children. For those who would like to alter the shape or reduce the prominence of their ears, Dr. Clark can perform ear surgery. Sacramento women, men and children with noticeably protruding ears can enjoy improved self-esteem after ear surgery, technically called otoplasty.

Dr. Clark takes the time to get to know you and understand your lifestyle and your needs. She is committed to helping you achieve results you’ll love from otoplasty in Sacramento. Contact us for more information about Dr. Clark or the procedures she offers.

Is Ear Surgery for You?

Ear surgery can help both adults and children feel less self-conscious and may improve their overall quality of life. If you or your child has large, protruding or abnormally shaped ears, this simple surgery can make a distinct and noticeable change to their appearance. Unlike most cosmetic surgeries, the procedure can be performed on children as young as 7, assuming their ears have fully developed and they are mature enough to handle surgery. During your consultation with Dr. Clark, she will evaluate you and your goals, and together, you will decide the proper course of treatment.

Dr. Clark also performs earlobe repair surgery for people whose earlobes have been stretched or torn through injury or use of earrings or gauges.

Ear Surgery Explained

Ear surgery begins with Dr. Clark making one or more incisions along the skin of the ear, depending on your needs. Once the incisions are created, Dr. Clark has access to the underlying tissue and cartilage and can begin reshaping and forming the ear into its desired shape and size. The most common ear surgery involves pulling the ear closer to the head by placing sutures within the ear cartilage and/or trimming excess cartilage and skin so that it heals that way. This procedure is also called “ear pinning.”

After the reshaping process and removal of excess is complete, the incisions are closed using absorbable sutures. The entire procedure takes between 1 and 3 hours, depending on complexity.

Recovery and Results

Most ear surgery patients are able to return to their normal routine within 1 to 2 weeks following surgery. A headband is typically worn mainly at night during this period to ensure proper healing of the ears. Ear surgery can also be combined with other plastic surgery procedures to greater enhance the face and overall appearance.