Otoplasty (Ear Surgery) in NYC

Manhattan plastic surgeon, Dr. Kenneth Rothaus, performs otoplasty, also known as ear surgery, to reduce the appearance of prominently larger ears. Ridicule and teasing at school can obviously have a negative impact on the self-esteem of a child. For this reason, otoplasty is often performed on children as young as five years old, a time when the majority of the growth of the ear has ceased. We provide otoplasty procedures to residents of NYC, Manhattan, Westchester, and nearby areas of New York.

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What is Otoplasty?

Otoplasty, or ear surgery, is most frequently performed to reshape adult ears, increasing self-esteem and improving appearance in this case as well. Incisions are placed behind the ear, which limits visible scarring. This location allows Dr. Rothaus to gain access to the cartilage of the ears for contouring. An otoplasty will thus bring the ears in balance with the head and face.

Who is a Candidate for Otoplasty?

We work with children as early as five years of age so that their ears can be reshaped before they begin elementary school. However, individuals of any age can receive ear surgery. Fitting candidates are women or men who demonstrate:

  • Issues with self-confidence due to the shape or size of their ears
  • Ears that protrude out
  • Ears with congenital deformities of the cartilage

What is the Otoplasty Procedure Like?

An incision is made behind the ear so that the cartilage can be exposed. Cartilage is removed and/or shaped until the ear demonstrates a more fitting appearance. Any excess skin is removed. Permanent sutures will be used to repair and reshape the cartilage, but the hidden post-auricular (behind the ear) incision will be closed with absorbable sutures. The goal of otoplasty is to assess the many variables used to redefine the ears and produce a natural-looking and long-lasting result.

How Long is the Recovery from Otoplasty?

Swelling and bruising, which can be minimal, will begin to dissipate during the first couple weeks. A dressing is applied to the head immediately after the procedure and will be removed at the first office visit after surgery. Patients must continue an elastic headband to protect the ears for several more weeks. Strenuous activity must be avoided for at least one month after surgery. Parents must ensure that children do not scratch or pick at their ears during the healing process.

Plan Your Procedure

Recovery Time: 7-10 days

Average Procedure Time: 60-90 minutes

Procedure Recovery Location: Outpatient

Real Patient Testimonials

Not only is Dr. Rothaus incredibly experienced and knowledgeable, he is also incredibly personable. It’s so refreshing to have a doctor who is not only amazing at what he does, but also has your best interests at heart. I sincerely value that I’m being told all the facts before making any decisions. Highly recommend him!

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Show Your Face From All Sides

Otoplasty gives patients new confidence. We encourage you to contact us and seek advice from our plastic surgery office if you live with anxiety about the size or shape of your ears. Rothaus Plastic Surgery provides otoplasty surgery for patients living in New York, Manhattan, Westchester, the Upper East Side, and the neighboring New York communities.

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About Dr. Rothaus

Kenneth O. Rothaus, MD is a board-certified Manhattan and Westchester plastic surgeon offering cosmetic and reconstructive surgery for the face, breast, body, and skin. Educated at Yale College and Harvard Medical School, Dr. Rothaus’ general and plastic surgery training was at the Columbia and Cornell campuses of the New York Presbyterian Hospital. Dr. Rothaus values the wants and needs of his patients and strives to give them the best experience possible.

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