Washington, DC
Otoplasty

Otoplasty, also known as ear pinning or ear setback, is a plastic surgery procedure which can improve the appearance of protruding or large ears. During the procedure, the skin and cartilage behind the ears are reshaped, and the size and shape of the ears can be altered as well. Candidates for otoplasty include healthy patients over the age of four who have protruding ears.

Dr. Naderi performs otoplasty at one of the INOVA system hospitals, which include Fair Oaks Hospital, Loudoun Hospital, Fairfax Hospital, and Mt. Vernon Hospital. The procedure takes thirty minutes to an hour to complete and can be performed with local anesthesia or MAC (monitored anesthesia care). Hidden incisions which are located behind the ears are used for the procedure.

Once the incisions are made, sutures may be used to create anti-helical folds, extra large “bowl” cartilage may be shaved, and sutures are used to set back the ears. Select patients may be candidates for the newer, cutting-edge “incision-less” technique which relies on sutures threaded through and under the skin. This technique not only creates no incisions, it is also associated with decreased bruising and swelling and a quicker recovery. Dr. Naderi is one of a small handful of surgeons trained in this technique, which was developed at the Indiana University School of Medicine by one of Dr. Naderi’s mentors - Dr. Michael Fritsch. Dr. Naderi has taught this procedure to other resident surgeons at Indiana University.

Recovery after otoplasty generally takes seven to ten days. Patients may experience some discomfort as the ears may throb or ache for the first few days, though medication can help to control this. Swelling, redness and numbness may occur. Soft dressings applied after surgery are worn for about one week and will then be replaced with a sports headband which is worn for up to two weeks at bedtime. Stitches dissolve in about seven to ten days. Most patients are able to return to work or school within a week, though more strenuous activities will need to be postponed for about three weeks.  Contact sports must be avoided for up to 3 months.

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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.

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