Ear Surgery in Houston, TX

Large, protruding, uneven, or misshapen ears can present a self-esteem challenge to patients of any age, but this is especially true during the formative years of childhood where a positive self-image is critical to a child’s personal and psychological growth. Otoplasty (also known as ear reshaping surgery) corrects the size, shape, and position of the ears, including protruding or deformed ears, with ease and relatively little discomfort. The set-back otoplasty by double board-certified facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Eugene "Gene" Alford, involves either removal or reconstruction of the cartilage and skin of the ear through an incision that’s placed at the back of the ear. Otoplasty at Alford Facial Plastic Surgery in Houston, TX can be performed on patients of any age, starting as young as 5 or 6, but it can have dramatic psychological and physical benefits in both children and adults. Dr. Gene can also help patients who need repair or reconstruction on their ear or ear lobe after an accident or injury, including stretched ear lobes.

At Alford Plastic Surgery, we encourage our patients to consider ear surgery if the following list of benefits interests them:

• Reducing the emphasis on protruding ears can add to your profile
• Small, minimally-invasive procedure that can be performed in the comfort of our office
• Balancing the appearance of genetically-uneven ear shapes and sizes
• Increased psychological and physiological benefits, including confidence in your appearance

Candidates for ear surgery are typically individuals seeking to address aesthetic concerns related to the shape, size, or position of their ears. This procedure is commonly performed on patients with prominent or asymmetrical ears, restoring balance and proportion to the facial features. Ideal candidates include those in good overall health, with realistic expectations about the potential outcomes of the surgery. Otoplasty can also repair the ear and ear lobe after trauma or injury. Many patients want their ear lobes repaired after they have been stretched by heavy earrings or ear gauges. Consulting with a qualified facial plastic surgeon like Dr. Eugene Alford is essential to determine candidacy and discuss individualized treatment plans tailored to specific aesthetic goals.

Most ear surgeries take about two hours, but this varies in each case. Incisions are usually made in the back or inner folds of the ear so cartilage and tissue can be removed or added to improve the shape or projection. Dr. Gene may also adjust the position of one or both of the ears to match each other and balance with the rest of the face. Once the ears are corrected, Dr. Gene will close the incisions and send the patient to a recovery area.

You will be discharged from the hospital approximately 2-4 hours after surgery once you are stable and your pain is well controlled so that you may recover in the comfort of your home. You should return to Alford Facial Plastic Surgery for a follow-up appointment in 1 week so Dr. Gene can check the appearance of your ears and the progress of your recovery. Most patients only need 1 – 2 weeks for recovery time before they return to their normal activities, but you should take as much time as you need to avoid complications. 

The results of ear surgery are usually visible right away and continue to improve as the swelling decreases and the area heals. Your newly shaped, sized, positioned, or repaired ear should be long lasting, unless you have a future injury or accident. Any problems on concerns about your results can be discussed with Dr. Gene so you are satisfied with your ear surgery

During your initial consultation, Dr. Gene can breakdown the expenses (hospital fee, anesthesia, and other) and your cost estimate.

• Cauliflower ears
• Disproportionate ear size
• Ear asymmetry
• Earlobe reduction
• Ears that stick out
• Elf ears
• Injury or trauma to the ear
• Odd ear placement
• Overly large ears
• Overly small ears
• Stretched, torn earlobes

The surgical incisions for ear surgery are usually well-hidden behind the ears in the hairline or in the folds of the ear. If you keep the stitches clean and follow Dr. Gene’s scar management tips, the scars should fade quickly and blend into the normal skin until they are almost invisible.

Ear surgery can be very helpful in restoring your confidence, but some patients may benefit from adding nose surgery (rhinoplasty) to better balance their facial features. Older otoplasty patients may consider including a facelift since the incisions are similar and they can have a fully refreshed look that boosts their confidence. Dr. Gene can help you determine the best cosmetic procedures for your concerns and goals.