Is it Possible to Have Subtle/Minor Otoplasty? (photo)

Question

Hello, I'm a 46 y/o man. My ears are symmetrically protruding, but that is not really my issue. The problem is that both ears are flat with NO FOLDING whatsoever on the anthelix (spelling??) (picture attached.) What I'm interested in is a procedure that will just create a VERY SUBTLE change, i.e. create a little bit of fold on both ears so that they will look more natural. I don't need them pinned back all the way to the head. Is this possible? What'd be the cost for both ears? Thank you

Matthew Bridges, MD, FACS · Answer

It is definitely possible to do as much or as little as you want with otoplasty.  I would tell you with the limited view of your ear, however, that you would probably need at least some reduction or modification of the concha (or "bowl" part) of the ear as well as creation of an anti-helical fold.  This is commonly done along with creation of the anti-helical fold to maintain a normal ear shape.

Jason Lichtenberger, MD · Answer

Incisionless Otoplasty is perfect for quickly and easily adding a fold in the upper part of the ear. There is certainly a range of options to reshape the ears - and with what you are seeking to achieve, it probably is not necessary to remove cartilage.  Find a surgeon with experience in incisionless techniques.

Anil R. Shah, MD · Answer

Otoplasty procedure can be varied to your individual anatomy and aesthetic.  Discuss with your surgeon about the position and shape of your ears are seeking and how much change you  are seeking.

	 

	Many patients are not as specific on how they want the ears to look (i.e. I want Brad Pitt's ears) but  rather know they want the ears closer to the head, look natural.  The degree of these changes is discussed as some patients want the ears tight to the head while others prefer just an overall less prominent ear.

Mark Beaty, MD · Answer

Otoplasty can address a number of issues with your auricular cartilage.  I agree that you have a flattened anthelical fold and creation of a more normal contour would be a nice improvement.  How far you set the ears back is a function of both the degree of anthelical fold created and reduction and setback of the conchal bowl.  Discuss what your wishes are with your surgeon, an experienced otoplasty surgeon can certainly obtain the result you are looking for.

Lorelei Grunwaldt, MD · Answer

It is absolutely possible to create a subtle fold.  It makes sense to see your surgeon to have them look at and examine your ears to determine how stiff the cartilage is and what would work best.  Often this type of surgery requires over correction because the ear wants to go back to where it was before surgery.  Therefore the ear may look like it is more “pinned back” initially and will relax with time.

Is it Possible to Have Subtle/Minor Otoplasty? (photo)

Answers (10)

Answer: Discussing otoplasty options with your surgeon

Answer: Discussing otoplasty options with your surgeon

Answer: Otoplasty for fold

Answer: Otoplasty for fold

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Ear Surgery

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Is it Possible to Have Subtle/Minor Otoplasty? (photo)

Answers (10)

Answer: Discussing otoplasty options with your surgeon

Answer: Discussing otoplasty options with your surgeon

Answer: Otoplasty for fold

Answer: Otoplasty for fold

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Ear Surgery

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.