Otoplasty (Ear Surgery) in Virginia Beach
CONVENIENTLY LOCATED TO SERVE VIRGINIA BEACH, NORFOLK, AND CHESAPEAKE
Why consider otoplasty? No one enjoys having a feature that calls unwanted attention to them or makes them the subject of ridicule. Children with protruding ears, especially, can be hurt by the teasing of their peers. As adults, their self-confidence can often be greatly diminished by the continued awareness of their ears being a focal point. Oftentimes, even hair or a hat cannot hide the prominence.
Repositioning of prominent or protruding ears (otoplasty) is a common facial plastic surgery procedure. It can be performed at any time on patients from age 5 into adulthood.
The goal of an otoplasty is to create an ear as normal in structure and balanced in proportion to other facial features as possible. Each case of ear surgery (otoplasty) is highly individual and requires a unique plan so as to avoid an unnatural “pinned back” look.
Good Candidates for Otoplasty
Otoplasty is a popular procedure for children and teenagers with malformed ears. Commonly, ear surgery is used to treat concerns like macrotia, a condition where the ears are overly large or protruding. Otoplasty is also recommended in cases where injuries have caused issues with the shape of the ear.
The best candidates for otoplasty are age 5 or older. This is because, by the age of 5, the development of the outer ear is 90 percent complete.
It is essential that people undergoing this treatment are in good overall health to avoid the risks of complications in surgery and recovery. For smokers, the recovery procedure is very slow, since smoking decreases the blood flow to the treated area.
Otoplasty Options
There are a number of otoplasty techniques available depending on the details of each case. The most popular kinds of otoplasty are related to ear pinning, ear augmentation, and ear reduction.
When people have protruding ears that stick out from the sides of the head prominently, ear-pinning otoplasty results in drawing the ears closer to the head. People opt for ear augmentation when they have underdeveloped or very small ears. Lastly, in the case of macrotia, ear reduction helps in reducing the size of the ears.
How Much Is Otoplasty in Virginia Beach?
Otoplasty cost depends on the surgeon’s fees, anesthesia, facility charges, and post-operative medications or garments. A full breakdown is provided after your consultation with Dr. Hugo. Financing is available through CareCredit, with low monthly payments and no up-front costs. Call (757) 496-4801 for details.
The Otoplasty Consultation
Before a date is set for the operation, Dr. Hugo meets with the patient for a consultation. It is important to be open and honest during consultations. The patient will discuss their medical history and Dr. Hugo will closely examine the shape, size, and position of the ears.
The Procedure
The operation is usually done under local anesthesia as an outpatient procedure. A general anesthetic is recommended for young children. An incision is made behind the ear to access the underlying cartilage. The procedure is performed in our fully accredited surgery center in Virginia Beach. The cartilage is carefully weakened or trimmed to bend the ear back the proper amount. Internal non-removable sutures are used to secure the shape, and the skin is closed with dissolving sutures.
Otoplasty Recovery
A dressing is worn for four to six days after surgery to protect the site and support the new position. Oral pain medication controls discomfort, and an elastic headband is worn at night for two months. Patients can usually return to work or school after one week. Contact sports should be avoided for three to six months.
About Dr. Ben Hugo
Dr. Ben Hugo is a board-certified plastic surgeon serving Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, and Hampton Roads. His approach centers on precision and proportion—creating an ear shape that looks natural, not operated on. To schedule a consultation, call (757) 496-4801 or submit an online request.
FAQs About Otoplasty
What are the risks of ear surgery?
As with any surgery, otoplasty carries general risks including infection, bleeding, scarring, and anesthesia reactions. Specific risks include asymmetry, changes in skin sensation, and suture-related complications. These are uncommon. Dr. Hugo will review all risks with you during your consultation.
