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

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

Based on your pictures, it looks like you are a good candidate for an otoplasty.

Regarding the helix, which is the outer rim of the ear, it is possible to address its size vertically through otoplasty. A plastic surgeon can evaluate the specific characteristics of your ears and discuss the techniques that would be most appropriate to achieve your desired results. They may recommend cartilage reshaping or other methods to reduce the size of the helix while maintaining a natural and aesthetically pleasing appearance.

If you are concerned about your ears and feel that they impact your confidence and self-image, it could be worth scheduling a consultation with a plastic surgeon who specializes in otoplasty. During the consultation, you can discuss your goals, have your ears evaluated, and learn about the available options for addressing your concerns. The surgeon can also show you before and after photos of previous patients to help you visualize potential outcomes.

I hope this helps,
Best of luck !

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

Jacob Tower, MD · Answer

Hello, hope you are well. Here's a nuanced answer. Otoplasty is usually done to reduce ear prominence / protrusion that is visible from the frontal view (looking directly at your face). However, if vertical height is your concern, a different and more customized surgical approach can be taken. Just understand that there are limitations in reducing size without changing the fundamental appearance of the ear and its normal contours/folds. At the end of the day, you still want your ear to appear 'normal' without notching, deformity, or overt signs that you had surgery. (In other words, there is room for reduction in some parts of the ear, but not others). And yes, it's worth a consult, virtual or in-person to discuss precisely what that would entail. 
Cheers,Dr. Tower

Scott E. Kasden, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi Kerasoft.

I will base my answer on photos only, without the ability to examine you and importantly, make measurements.

You appear to have "macrotia" or enlarged or hypertrophied ears.  You may also have prominent ears as well.  This can be treated with an otoplasty quite nicely.  I would suggest carefully selecting a board certified plastic surgeon (only) who has a lot of experience with otoplasties, and also, a passion for the procedure.
All the best.

sek

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

Answers (8)

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