Otoplasty
in Springfield, MO

If you’re bothered by the appearance of prominent ears or feel self-conscious about their shape, otoplasty can offer a lasting solution to help you feel more confident in your profile. Many patients come to Bailey Cosmetic Surgery & Vein Centre seeking a way to correct ear asymmetry or reduce the prominence of their ears, which can affect both children and adults. Our experienced team in Springfield provides personalized care to address these worries with precision and artistry, ensuring natural-looking results that enhance your overall facial harmony.

table of contents

What Is Ear Surgery (Otoplasty)?

Otoplasty Procedure

Benefits of Otoplasty

Types of Otoplasty

Recovery After Otoplasty

Cost of Otoplasty in Springfield, MO

Consultation & Preparation for Otoplasty

Am I a Good Candidate for Otoplasty?

What Makes Our Plastic Surgery Different From Others?

Table of contents

What Is Ear Surgery (Otoplasty)?

Types of Otoplasty

Consultation & Preparation for Otoplasty

Otoplasty Procedure

Recovery After Otoplasty

Am I a Good Candidate for Otoplasty?

Benefits of Otoplasty

Cost of Otoplasty in Springfield, MO

What Makes Our Plastic Surgery Different From Others?

What Is Ear Surgery
(Otoplasty)?

Otoplasty is a type of cosmetic surgery focused on reshaping the ears to improve their appearance. It is commonly performed to address prominent ears that stick out more than usual. The procedure typically takes about one to two hours to complete. Dr. Bailey carefully adjusts the cartilage to create a more balanced and natural ear shape. This surgery helps achieve symmetry and proportion without altering the ear’s basic structure.

Types of Otoplasty

Ear Pinning Surgery

Ear pinning surgery is designed to correct protruding ears by repositioning them closer to the head. This procedure reshapes the ear cartilage to create a more balanced and natural appearance, reducing the noticeable projection of the ears.

Ear Reduction

Ear reduction targets large ears by carefully removing or reshaping excess cartilage and skin to achieve a smaller appearance. This type of otoplasty aims to create ears that are more proportionate to the rest of the face while maintaining a natural contour.

Ear Augmentation

Ear augmentation involves enhancing the size or shape of the ears using cartilage grafts. This procedure is often chosen to address microtia (underdeveloped, small ears) or to restore ear volume lost due to injury.

Earlobe Reduction

Earlobe reduction focuses on refining the size and shape of the earlobes. It is ideal for patients who feel their earlobes are too large or elongated, resulting in a more aesthetically pleasing and balanced ear shape.

Earlobe Repair

Earlobe repair is performed to restore damaged earlobes by repairing torn or stretched skin. This procedure can correct issues caused by trauma, heavy earrings, or aging, helping to rejuvenate the overall appearance of the ears.

Consultation &
Preparation for
Otoplasty

Preparation for otoplasty begins with a thorough consultation, during which patients discuss their goals and medical history. Our triple-board-certified surgeon, Dr. Bailey, evaluates the ear structure and explains what to expect from the cosmetic procedure. Patients receive detailed instructions on preoperative care, including guidelines on medications and lifestyle adjustments. This careful planning ensures the best possible outcome and helps patients feel confident before surgery.

Otoplasty Procedure

Anesthesia

Otoplasty can be performed using either general anesthesia or local anesthesia with IV sedation, depending on the patient’s age, preference, and the complexity of the procedure. General anesthesia ensures the patient is fully asleep throughout the surgery, while local anesthesia with IV sedation provides relaxation and numbness without complete unconsciousness.

Incisions

Dr. Bailey typically makes an incision behind the ear or within the natural folds to minimize visible scarring. This incision allows access to the underlying cartilage and tissue that need reshaping or removal.

Cartilage and Tissue Adjustment

Once the incision is made, Dr. Bailey carefully sculpts the cartilage and adjusts the surrounding tissue to achieve the desired ear shape and position. This step is crucial in correcting prominent ears, reducing size, or restoring symmetry.

Closure

After reshaping the ears, the incisions are closed using fine stitches, which help promote healing and reduce scarring. These stitches are often designed to be absorbable or may be removed during a follow-up visit.

Recovery After
Otoplasty

First 24 Hours

During the first 24 hours after otoplasty, patients typically experience some swelling and mild discomfort around the ears. The head is usually wrapped in a protective bandage to support the new ear shape and minimize swelling. Pain medication may be prescribed to manage any discomfort during this initial period.

Week 1

In the first week following surgery, patients should keep their heads elevated as much as possible to reduce swelling. The bandages are often replaced with a lighter dressing or headband to protect the ears. Most patients can return to light activities but should avoid any pressure or trauma to the ears.

Several Weeks

Recovery continues over several weeks as swelling and bruising gradually subside. During this time, patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities and sleeping on their sides to prevent damaging the healing ears. Full results become more apparent as the ears settle into their new position and the tissue heals completely.

Am I a Good Candidate for Otoplasty?

Candidates for otoplasty come from a range of age groups and backgrounds, reflecting the diverse reasons people seek this cosmetic procedure. This surgery can address various concerns related to ear shape and structure across different life stages. Candidates may include:

Children with prominent or misshapen ears
Adults seeking correction of ear asymmetry
Individuals of any age with congenital ear deformities

Patients with ear changes caused by injury
Young patients experiencing self-consciousness due to ear appearance

Benefits of
Otoplasty

Otoplasty offers a variety of positive outcomes that can significantly impact a patient’s overall well-being and satisfaction. The changes made through this procedure often extend beyond physical improvements.

Enhanced self-confidence in social and professional settings
Correction of ear prominence or asymmetry
Improved balance and harmony of facial features
A life-changing boost to personal image
Long-lasting enhancement of ear appearance

Cost of Otoplasty in
Springfield, MO

The cost of otoplasty in Springfield ranges from $3,500 to $6,000, depending on the complexity of the procedure and the patient’s specific needs. To receive an accurate price quote tailored to your individual goals, we recommend scheduling a consultation. This allows Dr. Bailey to evaluate your case and provide a detailed cost estimate.

What Makes Our Plastic Surgery Different
From Others?

Every procedure performed by Dr. Bailey reflects his extensive expertise and dedication to patient care. With triple board certifications in cosmetic surgery, phlebology, and general surgery, along with fellowship training and years of surgical experience, Dr. Bailey ensures precision and artistry in all treatments. Supported by a compassionate team, patients receive personalized attention and privacy within a safe and comfortable environment. This commitment to excellence and individualized care distinguishes the services offered at Bailey Cosmetic Surgery & Vein Centre.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does it take to perform otoplasty?

Otoplasty typically takes one to two hours to complete, depending on the patient’s specific needs and the extent of the required corrections.

Is the surgery painful?

The procedure is performed under anesthesia, so patients do not feel pain during surgery. Afterward, any discomfort is typically mild and can be managed with prescribed pain medication.

Can otoplasty help address chronic ear infections?

Otoplasty is focused on reshaping the ears and is not intended to treat chronic ear infections or other ear problems related to the ear canal or middle ear.

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