Otoplasty

Conveniently located to serve the areas of Kansas City, MO

Otoplasty, otherwise known as ear surgery, is an in-office procedure that can fix the overall appearance, shape, proportion, and position of your ears. Men have numerous reasons why they would want to undergo an otoplasty. Some were born with a natural defect that affects the structure, size or protrusion of the ears. Others have experienced an injury that damaged the ear, or they would like to repair the earlobes after years of wearing gauges. If you’re dissatisfied with the look of your ears, consider otoplasty at Vargas Face & Skin Center in Kansas City.

Why Otoplasty?

Ear surgery can be performed on almost anyone, even children. As long as the ears are fully formed (which happens around age 5 or 6), anyone with the following conditions may be considered candidates for ear surgery:

  • Cagot ear: little to no earlobe is present
  • Shell ear: the curve in the outer rim or natural folds are missing
  • Lop ear: the top appears to fold forward and downward
  • Cauliflower ear: the result of repeated injury to the cartilage of the ear
  • Ears that are folded forward (much like those of a cat)
  • Small or underdeveloped ears
  • Abnormally large or protruding ears
  • Overly large or stretched earlobes

The Otoplasty Procedure

Otoplasty is a fairly simple procedure, depending upon the needs of the patient. In most cases, once the patient is under twilight sedation, Dr. Vargas will make an incision behind the ear, in the fold of skin that joins the ear to the head. From there, Dr. Vargas will remove or trim any necessary cartilage or skin to achieve the desired effect. She will then place internal sutures to secure the shape. Additional stitches will be used to close the incision.

In addition to this standard approach, Vargas Face & Skin Center also offers earlobe reduction and repair.

After the Procedure

After you’ve undergone ear surgery, you’ll receive bandages on your ears for protection. Avoid applying any pressure to your ears (like sleeping on your side or rubbing your incisions) until the bandages are removed and Dr. Vargas gives you permission to resume normal activities. Ear surgery does not affect hearing in any way.

Scheduling Your Otoplasty

Elective ear surgery is a highly individualized procedure that requires a personal consultation with Dr. Vargas. You’ll come in and sit down with Dr. Vargas to discuss the procedure, your needs and the desired outcome for your ears.