Do you think I should proceed with otoplasty? I'm 16 years old & I am very self conscious about my ears.

Question

I dislike the size & the way the cartilage flaps at the top of the ear. I've also noticed that my left ear looks way better than my right ear.

Marc Pacifico, MD, FRCS(Plast) · Answer

Dear CynthiaMany thanks for posting your question.First of all, it is important to say that your ear is completely normal. Whilst you have not posted a picture of your other ear, no-one has identical or symmetrical ears, so a degree of difference between both ears is normal.You do have a very mild prominence of the upper pole of the ear, however, my personal view would be to leave it alone. The risk is that correcting such a subtle prominence results in over-correction, pulling the ear flatter against the head in an unnatural way.I hope this helps

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

You appear to have a nice right antihelical fold, and your photos that exclude your left ear, makes it difficult to comment on your candidacy for otoplasty surgery. You may want to  re-ask your question including photos of your left ear, and a frontal view visualizing both of your ears.Hope this will help you.Dr Joseph

Waldemar Merck, MD · Answer

In the photos one can’t exactly judge whether an otoplasty is necessary. Could you please post photos from the front and from the back, taken exactly from the middle of the head and in which both ears can be seen at the same time in each of the photos.

Randolph Capone, MD, FACS (in memoriam) · Answer

Otoplasty is a 2 hour operation that brings your ears closer to your head. For individuals with prominent ears that stick out, it can be a very satisfying surgery to have. It's difficult to tell from the photos you sent, but get a consultation with a certified plastic surgeon in your area who can show you photos of happy otoplasty patients they've operated on. Good luck!

Somyos Kunachak, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi Cynthiam,Since we do not have full photos, I cannot give full evaluation about your ears, but basically, otoplasty or ear pinning surgery can be done conservatively if you are really concerned. This procedure will involve an incision at the back of the ear which usually heals without visible scarring.

Do you think I should proceed with otoplasty? I'm 16 years old & I am very self conscious about my ears.

Answers (5)

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