Ear Surgery (Otoplasty) in Tucson, AZ

Ears that protrude outward, are misshapen and uneven, or look unnaturally big can negatively impact your self-confidence, especially when you're young. Otoplasty (ear reshaping) is a cosmetic treatment that helps to recontour the size, position, and shape of the ears to create a balanced look. Dr. Arun Rao is a board-certified plastic surgeon in Tucson, AZ who has helped countless women, men, and children overcome the embarrassment they feel when showing their ears after undergoing this surgery. Regardless of the cosmetic issue, ear surgery at Rao Plastic & Hand Surgery can allow you to show your face from any angle with newfound confidence. If you or your child are concerned with the shape or size of the ears, schedule a consultation with Dr. Rao to find out about your options for ear surgery.

Dr. Rao spends time with each patient before, during, and after ear surgery to ensure they are comfortable and informed throughout the process. We work to provide a safe and positive experience while delivering the best possible outcomes. Some benefits of working with our team include:

• Comprehensive care: We ensure you are well-informed during the entire process, from the first consultation to the final follow-up appointment.
• Natural-looking results: Dr. Rao is an experienced plastic surgeon who understands the importance of creating results that look natural and balanced.
• Personalized approach: We learn about your cosmetic goals for ear surgery to create personalized treatment plans.

Ear reshaping surgery can be done on patients of all ages; however, it is most common among young, school-aged children. From the age of six, this procedure is safe to be performed on a child. In Tucson, AZ, otoplasty with Dr. Rao is ideal for those who have any of these characteristics present with their ears:

• Stick out too far
• Irregular shape (congenital or due to trauma)
• Too big
• Asymmetrical

This treatment helps to improve the contours and general appearance of the ears, face, and head.

Ear reshaping surgery is completed using anesthesia, either general or IV sedation. Most often, the incision is made on the posterior surface of the ear. During surgery, cartilage will be manipulated to create a new contour and a natural-looking appearance. It's generally common for both ears to be altered during the procedure to ensure they look and appear symmetrical. After your surgery, the incisions are safely stitched together with sutures and wrapped so they are safeguarded for healing.

Once the procedure is finished and it is safe to leave the outpatient surgery center, you will heal and rest at home. Dr. Rao or a member of his team will send you home with recovery instructions. It is important to not pick at or touch the ears following your procedure. Also, you or your child should avoid laying on the ears and sleep propped up for the first few days. Dr. Rao recommends seeing his ear surgery patients back within 3 – 5 days. During this time, he will take off the dressings and monitor the ears for progress. Natural-looking ears are visible almost immediately, and your results will continue to look better as the ears heal and take to their new shape.

How much does ear surgery cost?
Costs for ear surgery will depend on what is being performed (ear shaping, pinning, earlobe repair, or a combination). Once Dr. Rao has listened to your concerns and goals, he can create your surgical plan and estimate costs. In order for you to focus on getting the results you need, Rao Plastic & Hand Surgery accepts many payment methods. Additionally, we can help you find low-interest financing.

Will the results of ear surgery last?
Normally, the ears mature faster than other parts of the face and body, which is why an otoplasty can be done on younger patients with long-lasting results. Dr. Rao will examine the ears and then talk about realistic expectations, as well as how long the results may last. Even as the face and body can change with age and gravity, the effect on the ears is usually minimal. If there are dramatic changes to the ears due to an injury, a second otoplasty can be performed.

How old should my child be to consider otoplasty?
Typically, children about 6 – 7 years of age are ideal candidates for otoplasty. While the ear is usually fully developed, the cartilage and tissue will still be soft, making it easy to change. This age is also good as it is early in their education, which can allow them to avoid teasing from their classmates. Although many otoplasty patients are young children, Dr. Rao also performs ear surgery for adult patients.

Do I need to have both ears done or just one?
The most common issues, such as ears that are oversized or stick out, occur in both ears so both will need to be fixed. During the surgery, Dr. Rao will shape both ears so they are as even as possible. However, if only one ear needs to be changed, the size and shape will be altered to match the other ear. After he has developed your personalized treatment plan, Dr. Rao will let you know whether or not both ears will be addressed.

The ears can be a constant burden for those who aren't happy with the way they look, or for those who experience teasing or bullying because of their ears. Otoplasty is a relatively simple procedure that corrects protruding ears and can be highly rewarding at any age. Contact Rao Plastic & Hand Surgery in Tucson, AZ to schedule your appointment with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Arun Rao and learn more about cosmetic ear surgery. We look forward to helping you achieve a balanced look you'll love.