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Ear Reshaping Surgery
Otoplasty is the general term for cosmetic and reconstructive ear surgery, and ear reshaping is one of its most common forms. The procedure brings balance to the ears in size, shape, angle, and overall contour — addressing ears that are misshapen, overly prominent, or asymmetrical. While these differences rarely pose a health concern, they can affect self-confidence at any age. Dr. Erez Dayan performs ear reshaping surgery for both children and adults at Avance Plastic Surgery Institute in Reno/Tahoe, NV.
Ear reshaping is performed by Dr. Erez Dayan, a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon and Medical Director of Avance Plastic Surgery Institute whose background in facial reconstructive and microsurgical technique is ideally suited to the delicate cartilage work otoplasty requires. Trained in the Harvard Plastic Surgery Program — where he served as Chief Resident in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Massachusetts General Hospital — and fellowship-trained in aesthetic surgery at the Dallas Plastic Surgery Institute, Dr. Dayan tailors each procedure to the patient’s anatomy and goals. Ear reshaping is one of several ear plastic surgery procedures he offers.
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Ear Reshaping for Children and Adults
Because misshapen ears are often noticeable from birth, many parents seek ear reshaping for their children to help them avoid teasing and self-consciousness. The procedure is possible once the ears have completed their initial development, usually by about seven years of age. Dr. Dayan also performs ear reshaping for adults who have lived with prominent or irregularly shaped ears and would like a more balanced, natural appearance.
“For a child, balanced ears can make a real difference in confidence before the teasing ever starts — and for adults, it’s often something they’ve thought about for years. Either way, the goal is a natural result that simply looks like it belongs.” — Dr. Erez Dayan
Balanced Ear Contour Surgery in Reno/Tahoe
Dr. Dayan uses different surgical techniques depending on the specific concern, determined after a physical examination and consultation. Generally, an incision is made at the back of the ear, giving access to the cartilage that needs work. The cartilage can be reshaped, repositioned, or even transplanted from another area of the body if needed to achieve the desired shape and size. When a patient has related concerns affecting hearing, Avance Plastic Surgery Institute can also coordinate with an otolaryngologist for any additional care required.
What to Expect During Ear Reshaping Recovery
Recovery generally lasts about a week, during which a bandage is worn around the head over the surgical sites, and any discomfort can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. Sutures and bandages are typically removed in about seven to ten days. Patients should avoid activity for at least a week and vigorous activity, such as sports, for at least six weeks. To protect the ears as they heal, a protective headband is worn during sleep for about six months.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ear Reshaping Surgery
At what age can a child have ear reshaping surgery?
Ear reshaping is possible once the ears have completed their initial development, usually by about seven years of age. Many parents choose this timing to help their child feel confident before school-age teasing begins.
Is ear reshaping only cosmetic?
It is primarily a cosmetic and reconstructive procedure to balance the size, shape, and position of the ears. When hearing concerns are involved, Dr. Dayan can coordinate with an otolaryngologist for any additional care.
What does the procedure involve?
An incision is typically made behind the ear to access the cartilage, which is then reshaped, repositioned, or transplanted as needed. Each procedure is tailored to the patient’s specific anatomy and goals.
What is recovery like?
Most patients recover within about a week with a head bandage, followed by suture removal at seven to ten days. Vigorous activity is avoided for about six weeks, and a protective headband is worn during sleep for roughly six months.
Can adults have ear reshaping surgery?
Yes. While often performed on children, ear reshaping is equally effective for adults who would like to correct prominent or irregularly shaped ears.
Will ear reshaping affect my hearing?
Ear reshaping addresses the outer ear and is not a hearing procedure. If hearing concerns are present, Dr. Dayan can work with an otolaryngologist so both are properly addressed.
Why Choose Avance Plastic Surgery Institute for Ear Reshaping
- Facial Reconstructive Expertise: advanced training in the delicate cartilage and facial techniques otoplasty requires
- Harvard Surgical Training: board-certified with Chief Resident experience at Massachusetts General Hospital
- Care for Children and Adults: ear reshaping tailored to patients of all ages
- Coordinated Care: the ability to work with an otolaryngologist when hearing concerns are involved
- Individualized Planning: every procedure customized to the patient’s anatomy and goals
Schedule Your Ear Reshaping Consultation in Reno/Tahoe
If you or your child would benefit from more balanced, natural-looking ears, Dr. Erez Dayan can help. Contact Avance Plastic Surgery Institute in Reno/Tahoe, NV at (775) 800-4444 to schedule an ear reshaping consultation. Virtual consultations are also available for patients traveling from out of town.
