Ear surgery, or otoplasty, may not be the most popular cosmetic procedure, but for adults who seek it for themselves or their children, it can be life changing. For people considering ear surgery in Los Angeles, my years of experience and skills as a surgeon can help them feel confident in their decision and their appearance.
This 27-year-old man desired less prominent ears and nose. Dr. Stoker performed ear pinning (otoplasty) and nose reshaping for him. He is shown before and four months following his surgery. His results will continue to improve over the course of a year as his swelling completely resolves. Read More
This 25-year-old woman wanted to reduce the prominence of her nose and ears while maintaining her ethnic appearance. She decided to learn about her options by consulting with a Los Angeles plastic surgeon who performed rhinoplasty. She eventually chose to contact Dr. Stoker's Practice.She expressed her concerns to her surgeon. He expla... Read More
Otoplasty can help both adults and children have more self-confidence. With a major concern about appearance alleviated, Los Angeles ear surgery patients can go about their lives with less anxiety when interacting with others. Adults who choose ear surgery often remark that they wish they had gone ahead with it years ago.
Most people are born with ears that hug their head rather closely. If your ears protrude, it’s because the major fold of cartilage inside the rim of your ear is underdeveloped, because you have excess cartilage, or both. Fortunately, plastic surgery to reposition your ears is predictable and effective at correcting the problem.
Otoplasty is the medical term for what’s commonly known as “ear pinning” surgery. About 25,000 people in the U.S. choose otoplasty annually, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
Educated at some of the most elite institutions in the country, Dr. David Stoker uses his highly advanced knowledge to ensure that each patient achieves beautiful, harmonious results — whether it's through a simple non-surgical procedure or a more advanced surgical transformation. Learn more about his unique credentials and his approach to plastic surgery.
I evaluate each patient carefully to determine the best approach for his or her ears. For most, I remove a small crescent of skin and cartilage behind the ear and place tiny sutures in the cartilage to improve the folds. Scars are small and very well hidden after healing.
Ear Surgery
Candidates
If protruding ears bother you, you’re likely a good candidate for otoplasty. Ear surgery patients are typically tired of feeling self-conscious about their ears and adjusting their hairstyles to conceal their problem.
For children, otoplasty may be performed in elementary school if the child, the parents and the pediatrician are in agreement. Children should be old enough to follow instructions, and cooperative when it comes to considering surgery. Some insurance plans will cover ear surgery for children.
Recovery
My Los Angeles ear surgery patients can expect to recover quickly and without much discomfort. A protective strap or cap is worn at night to protect the ears while they are healing.
Most people resume light activities the day after surgery, avoiding strenuous exercise for two or three weeks. Children may be out of school for a few days to a week.
Risks
Ear surgery is generally very safe. Risks do include bleeding, infection and asymmetry, but these complications are uncommon. If you follow post-op instructions and handle your ears carefully, there’s every reason to expect to be pleased with the outcome of surgery.
Our expertise extends beyond plastic surgery. We offer an extensive range of non-surgical treatments administered by our talented, experienced team of aesthetic providers under the guidance of board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. David Stoker.
If you have a treatment in mind, review our complete offering of non-surgical services. If you need a little help deciding, narrow down your options with our interactive treatment planner.