Otoplasty Surgeon Bellevue and Kirkland
Recovery Time
3-7 days
Your Trusted Eastside Otoplasty Surgeon
Large, protruding ears can affect the self-esteem of anyone, at any age. Women with protruding ears may lack the confidence they need in social gatherings. Children with large ears may experience teasing at school. Men with projecting ears may turn down opportunities to date or interact with others in public. For the large ears that you have, you may consider surgical options with a trusted Bellevue otoplasty surgeon. At Kirkland’s Northwest Face & Body, Dr. Ludwig A. Allegra performs otoplasty surgery, while helping to remove the stigmas attached to enormous ears, that hinder confidence and self-esteem. Northwest Face & Body provides the best otoplasty Bellevue and Kirkland offers.
Otoplasty, often referred to as ear pinning, is a surgical technique that reshapes a person’s ears and places them closer to the head. Dr. Allegra a board-certified cosmetic surgeon has the tenacity, skillset, and diligence to help restore the natural balance and symmetry to your ears while making them proportionate to your head and face. While adults do undergo ear pinning surgery in adulthood, it is common for children as well as adolescents to have effective and successful otoplasty surgeries. At Kirkland’s Northwest Face & Body, we provide a complete and comprehensive otoplasty surgery to residents in a safe and comfortable medical environment. Dr. Allegra treats each ear pinning candidate with the respect, care, and compassion they need and deserve, regardless of age or gender.
Why Choose a Facial Plastic Surgeon to do my Otoplasty?
Most plastic surgeons today perform a range of procedures, including both face and body, but only a few dedicate their entire practice to the face. In many cases, they devote their time to performing liposuction, breast procedures, and tummy tucks.
In contrast, Dr. Ludwig A. Allegra has dedicated his entire practice to facial plastic surgery, including otoplasty. This specialized focus is one of the key reasons he is consistently recognized by patients in Seattle as a top facial plastic surgeon. His expertise attracts patients from around the world, with many traveling from across the USA and internationally to undergo surgery with him.
Types of otoplasty
Depending on your ear shape and concerns, otoplasty can be done to build, reposition, or reduce the ears. The most common techniques performed at Northwest Face & Body include ear augmentation for small or underdeveloped ears, ear pinning for ears that stick out, and ear reduction for overly large ears. All of these types are discussed below:
Ear Augmentation
Ear augmentation is a procedure used to treat underdeveloped or small ears, a condition known as microtia. It involves using tissue grafts or implants to build up the outer ear and create a more natural size and shape. This surgery can be performed at any age, depending on the individual’s needs and ear development.
Ear Pinning
This is the most well-known form of otoplasty, performed to correct ears that stick out prominently from the sides of the head. During the procedure, Dr. Ludwig A. Allegra reshapes or folds the cartilage and secures it with sutures to reposition the ear closer to the scalp.
It’s often done through incisions hidden behind the ear and is ideal for children and adults seeking a more balanced facial profile. The results are permanent and can significantly improve self-confidence.
Ear Reduction
Ear reduction is suitable for patients who feel their ears are disproportionately large, even if they don’t stick out. This procedure focuses on reducing the height or width of the ear, particularly the upper portion known as the pinna. Dr. Ludwig A. Allegra removes excess cartilage and skin to achieve a more proportionate size while preserving the ear’s natural shape.
Otoplasty, or often referred to as ear pinning or ear shaping surgery, is a surgical procedure used to improve and correct the position of the ears, thus giving the patient a more proportionate look. Most commonly performed on children, many adult individuals can benefit from ear pinning surgery. Some of the benefits include:
Otoplasty can correct an array of structural problems. Ear pinning surgery is largely elective that can help with oversized ears. During this procedure, Dr. Allegra removes excess cartilage and skin, and the ears are pinned back and reshaped. Otoplasty is perfect for individuals with folded, misshaped, cupped, or overly large ears.
Otoplasty Benefits For Children
- Patients can regain self-assurance and confidence. Although the ears are not considered one of the most prominent features on the head, they are very noticeable. Individuals with large ears can draw unwanted attention to themselves. An individual with imbalanced, prominent excessively large ears, can become a target of teasing, bullying, or prejudices. As a result, those large ears can lead to diminished self-confidence. With otoplasty surgery, balance can be brought to the face and head, leading to a more poised and even more assertive individual.
- Otoplasty can restore normalcy. It can help a person feel normal, especially children. Generally, men and women may not experience teasing from peers. For children, however, the issue may hinder learning, and bring a real sense of doubt, sadness, and even stress in public and amongst peers.
- At Northwest Face & Body, we can perform otoplasty on patients as young as five as long as the parent or guardian approves it.
Benefits Of Ear Pinning For Adults
- Ear pinning surgery can help to reshape the earlobe. The lobe is an aspect of the ear that can show wear and tear over time, especially among women, who wear heavy earrings or ear decorations. Because of the extra weight of certain jewelry, the earlobes can stretch or even tear. Enlarged lobes can also cause soft tissues to become displaced. Thankfully, otoplasty can correct these conditions and more. During the procedure, the top layer of the skin that surrounds any rip or hole can be removed, allowing the surgeon to reposition the remaining tissues for a more aesthetically pleasing and natural look.
- Otoplasty can obtain improved marketability. For many adults opting to have otoplasty surgery, appearance is paramount. In the realms of professional marketability, an ear pinning surgery can help in reaching new heights! It’s a given that people are now becoming ever-increasingly aware and mindful about how they look. An ear pinning surgery can provide you with the self-assurance you need while speaking and interacting with others!
Am I a good candidate for otoplasty?
For healthy persons seeking to improve their appearance with smaller and more proportionate ears, otoplasty may benefit. The procedure is a successful one, for children, pre-teens, teens, and adults. Ear reshaping surgery can also help to lessen the emotional and psychological stresses that having large ears can bring. So, if you are in stellar health, a non-smoker, and have healthy ears, then otoplasty may benefit you tremendously!
What does my otoplasty surgery consultation include?
During your consultation at Northwest Face & Body, we will begin by discussing your goals and objectives for your ear pinning surgery. Next, we will then take measurements of your ears, marking their size and shape. You will sit with Dr. Allegra and share with him your likes and dislikes about your ears. Next, we will discuss the otoplasty procedure in detail. Northwest Face & Body will ensure you leave fully informed about what will happen on the day of your surgery and what you can expect. We will then move forward with providing detail about each surgical incision made during your particular surgery, as no two ear pinning surgeries are the same. We will also discuss recovery time, cost, and what to expect after your otoplasty surgery.
For individuals who wish to wear earrings, earpieces, or apparatuses, it may prove beneficial to bring them to your consultation, or at least a picture of them. Doing such will provide Dr. Allegra an opportunity to discuss when you can resume wearing them. He will discuss the weight of your earpieces and decorations and provide sound advice about when you can wear them again, post-surgery.
What happens during the ear pinning surgery?
During your ear pinning surgery at our Seattle area medical offices, our team of board-certified physicians will use local anesthesia with sedatives for adults and general anesthesia for children.
Your surgery will take between one to two hours and will involve small incisions behind and within the natural folds and contour of your ear. To reduce the projection of the ears, Dr. Allegra will remove small slivers of cartilage for proper symmetry and balance. Once Dr. Allegra approves the new position of your ears and achieves balance, he will close the incisions with fine sutures or stitches. This type of sutures promotes minimal scarring during recovery. This technique results in the ears sitting closer to the sides of your head.
FAQ
What is the ideal age for otoplasty surgery?
Otoplasty is a surgical procedure that should be performed on persons with fully grown ears. For many individuals, this age is around four. There are many benefits to having the surgery at an early age; the avoidance of bullying and teasing about the ears in school is one advantage among many.
Where will my otoplasty be performed?
Your ear pinning surgery will be performed in a safe, secure, and private surgical suite. Dr. Allegra will ensure that your wellness is taken care of and all safety measures are implemented.
Will there be pain afterward?
After otoplasty surgery, you may experience some throbbing or shooting pain. Dr. Allegra can prescribe medications to help keep it at bay. Dr. Allegra will also offer additional directives that ensure a successful recovery and healing. It’s important to follow all instructions and take all prescribed medications.
Will there be any scars on my ears?
Although incisions are made during the otoplasty surgery, those scars are hidden and virtually undetectable.
What can I expect during the recovery phase of my ear pinning surgery?
Patients can expect a recovery time of about a week after your ear pinning surgery. It is common to have some aching pain after surgery. Usually, patients can manage with prescribed medication and by following the instructions of Dr. Allegra. Some patients report experiencing swelling, numbness, and redness after the surgery. Dr. Allegra can help you manage these side effects. You will also have bandages applied after your otoplasty surgery that are lightweight and will function more like a headband. Dr. Allegra will remove these a few days after your surgery. If you received stitches, he will remove them within about a week. For patients who received the dissolvable stitches or absorbable sutures, they will begin to dissolve on their own, in due time. For any problems, issues, or concerns during your recovery, contact our Kirkland offices immediately so that we can examine you and make the necessary adjustments.
Why should I choose Northwest Face & Body for my otoplasty surgery?
Northwest Face & Body is a facility renowned for respectable, safe, secure, and private cosmetic procedures and body enhancements. We have provided an array of procedures to residents in Kirkland and the greater Seattle area for years. Furthermore, we pride ourselves on offering patients the care, understanding, compassion, and information they need and deserve.
Dr. Ludwig Allegra is not only a board-certified cosmetic surgeon but one of the most sought-after cosmetic surgeons in Seattle, Kirkland & Bellevue. He brings over three decades of experience, skill, and cosmetic surgery successes, treating patients for the medical ailments and concerns they have. In a safe, secure, private, and non-judgmental environment, you will receive a level of care and treatment, that will exceed your expectations, not simply meet them. Dr. Allegra will work to ensure otoplasty results that you will love for years to come.
When will I be able to return to work, or when will my child be able to return to school after the surgery?
Patients often return to work and school within five to seven days after their Eastside ear pinning surgery procedure.
When can I return to the gym or when can my child return to sports or extra-curricular activities after otoplasty surgery?
Generally, it is advised that for individuals who participate in contact sports, intense physical activities, and strenuous programs, a two-month waiting period is generally advised. Dr. Allegra can provide specific instructions and recommendations for you about returning to your sports or any other physical activity.
When can I wear my earrings again after my otoplasty surgery?
After your ear pinning surgery, it is best to wait a few months to wear earrings and earpieces. Dr. Allegra will provide you with specific directives about when you can wear your earrings, ear decorations, and apparatuses post-surgery.
Can I clean my ears with cotton swabs after my surgery and during my recovery?
It is never recommended to insert cotton swabs and other items into the ear to clean the inside of them, whether an ear pinning surgery is in your future or not. Therefore, it is advisable that you never insert anything in your ear as you prepare or recover from your otoplasty surgery. Doing so may hurt your eardrum or rupture your inner ear. Dr. Allegra will provide you with specific details about the care and cleaning of your newly positioned ears as well as how to maintain their health and wellness.
Contact Your Seattle Otoplasty Cosmetic Surgeon Today!
Whether you or your child desire otoplasty here in the Seattle area, we here at Northwest Face & Body stand ready as the medical professionals ready to assist. We’ll treat you with the warmth and respect you need and deserve.
Located conveniently in Kirkland, minutes away from downtown Kirkland and Bellevue, Northwest Face & Body is accessible from both major Eastside cities. To schedule a consultation, call us at (425) 786-1266. You can also contact us online via the contact form or Price Simulator™.