Otoplasty
Ear Reshaping
in Los Angeles
Transform Your Appearance with Expert Ear Surgery
Otoplasty, commonly known as ear pinning surgery, is a specialized surgical procedure designed to reshape the ear cartilage and improve the appearance of the ears. If you or your child has protruding ears, misshapen ears, or other ear structure concerns that affect self-confidence, Dr. Jeffrey Rawnsley offers advanced otoplasty techniques at his Los Angeles practice.
Understanding Otoplasty
- Prominent ears that stick out from the side of the head
- Misshapen ears due to birth deformity or ear injury
- Disproportionate ear size (ear reduction or ear augmentation)
- Cauliflower ear from trauma
- Underdeveloped or missing antihelical fold (the natural crease inside the outer ear)
Before & After
The Otoplasty Procedure
Consultation
and Planning
Your journey begins with a thorough consultation where Dr. Rawnsley evaluates the shape of your ears, discusses your goals, and explains how otoplasty can help achieve your desired outcome. This planning phase is crucial for ensuring optimal results that look natural and balanced.
Procedure Details
During the otoplasty surgery:
- Incisions are made behind the ear, where they remain hidden from view
- Dr. Rawnsley carefully accesses the ear cartilage
- The cartilage is precisely reshaped using specialized suture techniques
- In some cases, the surgeon removes small portions of cartilage to achieve the desired contour
- The incision is closed with fine sutures designed for minimal scarring
The entire ear is repositioned to sit closer to the sides of your head, creating a more harmonious appearance while maintaining a natural look. The procedure can take approximately 1-2 hours, depending on complexity.
For certain patients, Dr. Rawnsley may recommend incisionless otoplasty, which uses specialized suturing techniques without external incisions.
Recovery and Outlook
- Soft bandages will protect the ears initially
- You'll need to wear a loose headband at night for several weeks to protect the corrected ear position during sleep
- Most patients return to normal activities within 1-2 weeks
- Final results become apparent as swelling subsides, typically within 4-6 weeks
Is Otoplasty Right for You?
You may choose otoplasty if:
- You're bothered by ears that stick out too far from your head
- You feel self-conscious about the size or position of your ears
- You've experienced teasing or social discomfort due to ear appearance
- You're looking to improve the appearance of ear shape or size
- You have realistic expectations about what the procedure can accomplish
Children with ear concerns may undergo otoplasty once their ear growth is nearly complete, typically around age 5-6. Many adults also seek otoplasty to address lifelong concerns or to correct changes following an ear injury.
The Impact
of Otoplasty
The effects of ear pinning surgery extend beyond physical appearance. Many patients report:
- Increased self-confidence in social and professional settings
- Freedom to wear hairstyles that expose the ears
- Resolution of long-standing insecurities
- Improved quality of life and psychological well-being
FAQ About Otoplasty
Your Next Step:
Schedule a Consultation
If you're considering otoplasty to change the appearance of your ears, Dr. Rawnsley offers the expertise and artistic vision to help you achieve natural, balanced results. His background in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, combined with his position at UCLA Medical Center, ensures you receive the highest standard of care.