Would I be a good candidate for an otoplasty? Can my helix be reduced vertically? (photos)

Question

While my ears don't seem extremely large, they prevent me from feeling as confident, feminine and elegant as I would like. Would I possibly be a candidate for surgery? Is there a way to reduce helix size vertically. I can't imagine pinning would be the answer... Would be grateful to learn doctors thoughts if it is worth a consult and if anyone can see what I mean. Thank you

Robert N. Severinac, MD · Answer

You may had had your surgery by now but I just had to answer your intriging question. you are right, your pinning or otoplasty would not reduce the height of your ear. Ear height and width can be addressed through cartilage excisional techniques that conceal the repairs within natural anatomic folds of the ear.
I hope you’re able to have your surgery and thank you for your question.

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

The size of your helix can be reduced with surgical ear reshaping. Setback otoplasty would not be necessary. Please seek an assessment by a board certified plastic surgeon experienced in cosmetic ear surgery.

Tanveer Janjua, MD · Answer

You are a candidate for both Otoplasty which will pin back the ears and Earlobe reduction that will reduce the vertical height. There are some more aggressive approaches but they leave a scar on the Helix that is visible.

OTOPLASTY is the medical term used for pinning back the prominent or protruding ears. The procedure is done under local or general anesthesia. Incisions are made behind the ear only. Permanent sutures are used to reshape the ear cartilage. Small amount of extra skin is removed from behind the ear as well. The ear is then stitched closer to the scalp permanently. The procedure takes one to two hours and recovery takes one week. 
Regards
Dr. J

Jeffrey H. Spiegel, MD · Answer

Your ears can be reduced vertically or brought closer to the head (or both). This will deemphasize them and likely help you feel more comfortable.  For the most part this can be done under local anesthesia right in the office!

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

Rather than reduce the helix, which is difficult to do with a good result, you may want to consider earlobe reduction. Simpler procedure with more predictable outcome

Would I be a good candidate for an otoplasty? Can my helix be reduced vertically? (photos)

Answers (8)

Answer: Several options

Answer: Several options

Answer: Otoplasty

Answer: Otoplasty

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Everything you need to know about Ear Surgery

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Would I be a good candidate for an otoplasty? Can my helix be reduced vertically? (photos)

Answers (8)

Answer: Several options

Answer: Several options

Answer: Otoplasty

Answer: Otoplasty

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.