Back to treatments

Ear Surgery (Otoplasty)

Otoplasty is a surgical procedure that reshapes or repositions the ears for improved symmetry and proportion, creating natural-looking results that enhance facial balance and confidence.

Overview

What is Otoplasty?

Otoplasty, also called ear surgery or ear pinning, is a cosmetic procedure that reshapes, resizes, or repositions the ears to achieve better facial balance. It is commonly performed to correct protruding ears, large ears, or asymmetry, and can be done for both children and adults. By sculpting cartilage and adjusting ear position, surgeons create a more natural and proportionate look.

This outpatient procedure is performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on age and complexity. Patients often choose otoplasty to reduce self-consciousness and improve confidence. Recovery is relatively quick, with most people resuming normal activities within a week. Otoplasty provides long-lasting, natural results, and many patients report a significant boost in self-esteem after surgery. Because ears are fully developed by age five, children and teens are often excellent candidates.

Find a Provider
Professional headshot of a man in a light blue suit and patterned tie, smiling against a neutral background.

Dr. David Robbins

MD
Dr. David Robbins

Cost of Otoplasty

The cost of otoplasty varies depending on the surgeon, location, and complexity of the case. While often elective, many patients consider it a worthwhile investment due to its long-lasting, transformative impact on facial harmony and confidence.

90-95% patient satisfaction

Success rates

$3,500-$5,000

Average cost (USD)

25,000+

Procedures performed annually

1-2%

Complication rate

Average cost (USD)

$3,500-$5,000

Cost Range (USD)

$3,000-$8,000

Otoplasty pricing reflects surgeon expertise and surgical complexity. While costs can vary, patients benefit from permanent results. Some providers offer financing options to make the procedure more accessible.

Pros and Cons of Getting Otoplasty

Pros

  • Permanent results
  • Improves ear symmetry and proportion
  • Boosts confidence and self-esteem
  • Outpatient procedure with relatively quick recovery
  • Suitable for children and adults
  • Customizable to each patient’s needs

Cons

  • Requires surgery and anesthesia
  • Downtime of about 1-2 weeks
  • Risks of scarring or asymmetry
  • Cost is not always covered by insurance
  • Swelling and bruising may last several weeks
  • Revision surgery may be needed in rare cases

How it Works

Otoplasty is a surgical procedure designed to reshape or reposition the ears, improving symmetry and proportion with the face. By adjusting cartilage structure, surgeons create a more natural, balanced appearance; helping patients feel more confident in their appearance without altering their overall identity.

What it Treats

Otoplasty treats protruding, large, or asymmetrical ears by reshaping cartilage and adjusting ear position for better proportion with facial features.

Procedure Time

Surgery typically takes 1-2 hours, performed under local or general anesthesia depending on age and case complexity.

Eligibility

Suitable for children (age 5+) and adults with prominent, large, or asymmetrical ears seeking improved balance and proportion.

Recovery & Downtime

Most patients return to work or school in one week. Swelling and bruising may last several weeks but results are visible immediately.

What to Expect Before, During, and After Otoplasty

Before Otoplasty

Your surgeon will review your ear anatomy, discuss goals, and explain the procedure. Patients may need to avoid certain medications and arrange for transportation on surgery day.

During Otoplasty

Under anesthesia, small incisions are made behind the ears. The surgeon reshapes or repositions cartilage, suturing ears closer to the head for improved symmetry. The procedure takes about 1-2 hours and is typically outpatient.

After Otoplasty

Patients wear headbands or bandages for support. Swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort are common but improve within weeks. Most patients resume normal activities in one week, with results visible once healing is complete.

Potential Risks and Side Effects from Otoplasty

Scarring or Asymmetry

Incisions are hidden behind the ear, but scarring or slight asymmetry can occur. Skilled surgeons minimize these risks, and scars typically fade well over time.

Infection or Poor Wound Healing

As with any surgery, infection or poor wound healing is possible. Following post-op care instructions reduces risks and ensures the best recovery.

Changes in Sensation or Discomfort

Some patients experience temporary numbness or tingling after otoplasty. These usually resolve as healing progresses. Permanent changes in sensation are rare.

Related Concerns to Ear Surgery (Otoplasty)

Ear surgery reshapes the cartilage of the ear to correct its position, size, or shape, most often for ears that protrude more than a patient would like. A surgeon works to create a natural, well-proportioned result. Below are the concerns this treatment addresses, each explained on its concern page.

Asymmetry

Ears can differ noticeably from one side to the other in shape, size, or how far they protrude from the head. Ear surgery can correct one or both ears independently, working toward better balance and proportion rather than an identical mirror match.

Asymmetry

Early Signs of Aging

Protruding or misshapen ears aren't caused by aging, but they're often one of the earliest features patients want addressed, sometimes in childhood. Ear surgery corrects the underlying cartilage structure at any age, providing a lasting change rather than a temporary adjustment.

Early Signs of Aging

Scarring

Incisions for ear surgery are placed in the natural fold behind the ear, where they heal discreetly and are largely hidden from view. A surgeon's technique and incision placement play a major role in how minimal the resulting scarring ends up being.

Scarring

Frequently Asked Questions

Most children experience only mild discomfort after otoplasty, which is usually well managed with over-the-counter pain relievers prescribed by the surgeon. Tenderness or tightness around the ears is common in the first few days but improves quickly. Most kids resume normal activities within a week.

Yes, otoplasty results are permanent. Once cartilage is reshaped and sutured, ears remain in their new position. While rare, revision surgery may be required if asymmetry develops or if healing does not progress as expected.

Yes, otoplasty can correct ear asymmetry. The surgeon carefully reshapes cartilage and repositions each ear to create balance and harmony. While perfect symmetry is not guaranteed, the goal is natural, proportionate results that enhance facial appearance.

Most patients return to work or school in about one week. Bandages or headbands are worn for support. Bruising and swelling may last several weeks, but improvements are visible immediately, with full results once healing is complete.

Scars from otoplasty are typically well hidden behind the ear. Over time, they fade and become barely noticeable. Following aftercare instructions helps minimize scarring and ensures the best cosmetic outcome. Skilled surgeons carefully place incisions to keep scars discreet.

Sources & Studies

The information presented on this page is supported by data and insights from the following trusted sources:

Systematic Review of Otoplasty Outcomes – PMC (2024)

Found recurrence or reoperation in ~4.3% of cases, with low complication rates such as suture erosion (2.5%) and hematoma (1.3%).

Cost of Otoplasty – ASPS (American Society of Plastic Surgeons)

Lists average U.S. cost at $3,500–$5,000, with total range $3,000–$8,000 depending on complexity, surgeon expertise, and location.

All sources are reviewed for accuracy and credibility to ensure the content remains reliable and up to date.

Providers for Ear Surgery (Otoplasty)

headshot of Dr. Kaveh Alizadeh

Dr. Kaveh Alizadeh

MD, MSC, FACS

Dr. Kaveh Alizadeh is a board-certified plastic surgeon, clinical researcher, and founder of Cosmoplastic Surgery, with offices in Long Island and New York City.

New York, NY

View More
Dr. Mariotti smiling in headshot

Dr. Eric Mariotti

MD, FACS

Dr. Eric Mariotti is a board-certified plastic surgeon and founder of Dr. Mariotti Plastic Surgery & M Spa in Walnut Creek, California.

Concord, CA

View More

Brittany Blaire

PA-C

Brittany Blair, PA-C, brings a calm, clinical presence to aesthetic medicine with a focus on precision, trust, and patient comfort.

Concord, CA

View More

Dr. Heather Furnas

MD

Dr. Heather Furnas is a board-certified plastic surgeon and co-founder of Plastic Surgery Associates of Santa Rosa, one of Northern California’s most established and respected centers for aesthetic excellence.

Santa Rosa, CA

View More

Dr. Eric Culbertson

MD

Dr. Eric Culbertson is a double board-certified plastic surgeon and partner at Plastic Surgery Associates of Santa Rosa, where he brings a refined, evidence-based approach to aesthetic and reconstructive surgery.

Santa Rosa, CA

View More

Locate a Certified Clinic for Ear Surgery (Otoplasty)

Discover trusted, world-class clinics verified for safety, expertise, and patient experience.

Explore Directory