Otoplasty Questions

Q - What is otoplasty?
Otoplasty, also known as ear setback or ear pinning, is a plastic surgery procedure designed to improve the appearance of protruding ears. The procedure can also change the size and shape of the ears.

Q - Is otoplasty right for me?
If you are healthy and looking to improve the appearance of protruding ears, otoplasty may be right for you. The procedure can be performed on patients over the age of four.

Q - At what age can otoplasty be performed?
Dr. Naderi performs otoplasty on patients over the age of four before the child has started school to avoid teasing and embarrassment.  

Q - What does a consultation for otoplasty entail?
During a consultation for otoplasty, Dr. Naderi will examine your ears, take a thorough medical history, and discuss your goals. All aspects of the otoplasty surgery will be explained including the technique, the anesthesia, the facility, the recovery, the risks, the costs and so on. Ask to see if you are a candidate for the “incision-less” technique.

Q - Where is otoplasty performed?
Dr. Naderi performs otoplasty at INOVA system hospitals, including Fair Oaks Hospital, Loudoun Hospital, Fairfax Hospital, and Mt. Vernon Hospital.

Q - What type of anesthesia is used for otoplasty?
Local anesthesia or MAC (monitored anesthesia care) may be used for otoplasty although general anesthesia is safer for children. .

Q - How is otoplasty performed?
For otoplasty, incisions are made behind the ears. The exact nature of the surgery will depend upon the particular patient. Sutures may be used to create antihelical folds or set back the ears, and extra large “bowl” cartilage may be shaved. Some patients may be candidates for an “incisionless” technique in which sutures are threaded through and under the skin, leaving no scarring and resulting in decreased swelling, bruising and recovery time. This technique was developed at the Indiana University School of Medicine and Dr. Naderi is one of a small handful of surgeons who perform it.

Q - How long does otoplasty take to perform?
Otoplasty usually takes thirty minutes to an hour to complete.

Q - Where are the incisions made for otoplasty?
The incisions for otoplasty are located behind the ears. There is a new “incisionless” technique which does not require incisions and is appropriate for select patients.

Q - Does otoplasty leave scars?
With the new “incisionless” technique for otoplasty, which is appropriate for select patients, there is no scarring. Otherwise, a small incision is made on the back of the ear resulting in a hidden scar.

Q - Does otoplasty involve much pain?
The ears may throb or ache during the first few days after otoplasty surgery. Medication can help to control any discomfort that patients experience.

Q - What is the recovery like after otoplasty?
Recovery after otoplasty takes about seven to ten days. Patients should expect some swelling and redness, and numbness may occur as well. Soft dressings applied after surgery are removed in about one week, after which time a sports headband is worn for up to two weeks.

Q - When will I be able to return to work after undergoing otoplasty?
Patients can return to work or school within a week.

Q - How soon will I be able to exercise after my otoplasty procedure?
Patients will need to wait at least three weeks after the otoplasty procedure before partaking in strenuous activities and exercise.

Q - When will my stitches be removed after my otoplasty procedure?
Stitches are removed in seven days.

Q - What are the risks or complications associated with otoplasty?
All surgery carries potential risks. Those associated with otoplasty include fluid collection (1%) and infection.

Q - Is otoplasty covered by insurance?
Otoplasty is sometimes covered by insurance and patients should be sure to check with their own insurance companies.

Q - Can I finance my otoplasty surgery?
Financing is available for many plastic surgery procedures.

Dr. Naderi's office in Herndon, VA is conveniently located near the following: