The appearance of the ears can have a significant impact on overall facial balance. When ears protrude prominently from the head or appear uneven in shape or position, it can affect self-confidence for both children and adults. Fortunately, otoplasty offers a safe and effective solution to correct protruding or asymmetrical ears and create a more harmonious appearance.
What Is Otoplasty?
Otoplasty, often referred to as ear reshaping surgery, is a cosmetic procedure designed to improve the size, shape, or position of the ears. The most common concerns addressed with otoplasty include:
- Ears that protrude too far from the head
- Asymmetrical ears
- Misshapen or underdeveloped ear cartilage
- Ears affected by injury or congenital differences
The goal of otoplasty is not to create perfectly identical ears, but rather to achieve natural-looking symmetry and better facial balance.
How Otoplasty Corrects Protruding Ears
Protruding ears are typically caused by structural differences in the ear cartilage. In many cases, the antihelical fold - the natural curve inside the ear - is underdeveloped, which prevents the ear from lying closer to the head. In other cases, there may be excess cartilage in the conchal bowl, the cup-shaped portion of the ear. Some patients experience a combination of both factors, contributing to a more prominent appearance.
During otoplasty, Dr. Bermudez carefully reshapes and repositions the ear cartilage to create a more balanced and natural contour. This may involve creating or enhancing the ear’s natural folds, removing or reshaping excess cartilage, and securing the ear closer to the head with internal sutures. Incisions are typically placed behind the ear, allowing any resulting scars to remain discreet and well-hidden.
Addressing Asymmetrical Ears
It is normal for ears to have slight differences, but noticeable asymmetry can make one ear appear higher, larger, or more protruded than the other. Otoplasty can correct asymmetry by:
- Adjusting the projection of one or both ears
- Reshaping cartilage for improved contour
- Refining ear size for better balance
The procedure is customized to each patient’s anatomy to ensure the results look natural and proportionate.
The Benefits of Otoplasty
While otoplasty changes physical appearance, its impact often goes beyond aesthetics. Many patients experience:
• Increased self-confidence
• Greater comfort wearing hairstyles that expose the ears
• Improved facial harmony
• Long-lasting results
Because the procedure permanently reshapes cartilage, results are typically stable over time.
Learn If Otoplasty Is Right for You
Protruding or asymmetrical ears can affect how you see yourself and how you feel in social situations. Otoplasty offers a safe, effective way to create natural-looking balance and improve confidence at any age. With a customized surgical approach, patients can achieve subtle yet meaningful enhancements that complement their overall facial features.
If you would like to learn more about otoplasty and whether it is right for you, schedule a consultation with Kenneth Bermudez, MD. Visit our office in San Francisco, California, or call (415) 668-2122 to book an appointment today.
