Enhance Confidence and Balance with Otoplasty (Ear Surgery) in Chicago & Glenview

If prominent or misshapen ears are affecting your confidence, otoplasty (ear surgery) in Chicago and Glenview may offer the balance you’re looking for. This procedure reshapes and repositions the ears to restore natural symmetry and improve overall facial harmony.

What Is Otoplasty (Ear Surgery)?

Otoplasty is a surgical procedure that reshapes, repositions, or reduces the size of the ears to improve facial balance. It’s commonly performed to correct protruding ears, asymmetry, or deformities caused by injury or genetics.

Also known as ear reshaping or correction surgery, otoplasty creates a more proportionate appearance. It’s a highly effective option for both adults and children—typically beginning around age five—who want to improve the appearance of their ears and feel more confident.

Benefits of Otoplasty (Ear Reshaping Surgery)

Cosmetic ear surgery is more than a physical adjustment—it often brings relief and renewed confidence. This surgery can:

• Improve ear symmetry and facial balance
• Reduce ear prominence (ear pinning surgery)
• Repair stretched or torn earlobes
• Help patients feel more comfortable with their appearance

Who Is a Good Candidate for Otoplasty?

Good candidates for otoplasty are healthy individuals with fully developed ears. You may be a strong candidate if you have:

• Protruding or uneven ears
• Shell-shaped or misshapen ears
• Congenital deformities
• Large or stretched earlobes
• Ears altered by trauma or injury

Patients should have realistic expectations and be psychologically prepared. During your otoplasty consultation, Dr. Rachel will discuss your concerns and goals to determine whether surgery is right for you.

Otoplasty Surgical Techniques Explained

Each ear surgery is designed to match the patient’s anatomy and goals. Dr. Rachel uses several techniques to create subtle, natural-looking results.

Protruding Ears (Ear Pinning Surgery)

To correct ears that stick out, sutures may be placed to fold the cartilage and bring the ears closer to the head. In some cases, a small section of cartilage is removed. The result is a more balanced and proportional look that remains stable over time.

Misshapen or Asymmetrical Ears

Patients with one larger ear, shell-shaped ears, or uneven folds may benefit from cartilage reshaping. Although many undergo surgery in childhood while the cartilage is soft and flexible, adults with firmer cartilage still respond well to correction.

Large or Stretched Earlobes

Whether inherited or caused by heavy earrings, stretched or oversized earlobes can be reduced using careful tissue removal. This subtle improvement helps refine the overall ear proportions.

How the Otoplasty Procedure Works

Otoplasty is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia. A discreet incision is made behind the ear, allowing access to the cartilage. Dr. Rachel then reshapes, folds, or removes cartilage as needed to achieve the desired contour. Sutures are used to secure the ear in its new position.

The incision is closed with delicate stitches, and a protective dressing is applied. The entire procedure usually takes one to two hours and is designed to produce long-lasting, natural-looking results with minimal visible scarring.

Recovery Timeline and Expected Results

A protective dressing is placed after surgery to support the healing process. Swelling and mild discomfort are common during the first few days but usually respond well to medication. Most patients return to work or school within five to seven days.

Strenuous activity should be avoided for three to four weeks, and a headband is recommended at night to protect the ears during sleep. While early results are visible as swelling improves, final results develop gradually over the next few weeks and are long-lasting once healing is complete.

Otoplasty Cost and Financing Options

Otoplasty pricing varies based on the procedure’s complexity and the type of anesthesia used. A personalized quote is provided during your consultation. MetropolitanMD offers financing options to help patients manage costs with greater flexibility and affordability. Our staff can discuss payment plans and guide you through the financing process.

Before and After Otoplasty Results

Otoplasty can restore balance and reshape confidence in a very real way. Browse our Before and After Gallery to see the results Dr. Rachel has achieved.

View More Before & Afters

Why Choose MetropolitanMD

Otoplasty requires both technical precision and an artistic eye. Dr. John D. Rachel, MD, FACS, is a quadruple board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon with advanced ear, nose, and facial anatomy expertise.

With over two decades of surgical experience, he brings exceptional detail and safety to every procedure. His background in otolaryngology allows him to address both cosmetic and structural concerns with confidence.

At MetropolitanMD, you’ll receive care in an accredited surgical facility staffed by a team renowned for its professionalism, warmth, and personalized support, from consultation through recovery.

Otoplasty (Ear Surgery) FAQs

• How long does otoplasty take?

  Most otoplasty procedures take between one and two hours. The length depends on whether one or both ears are being treated and the complexity of the reshaping.

• At what age can ear surgery be performed?

  Otoplasty is typically performed around age five or older, once the ears are nearly fully developed. Adults of any age may also be good candidates.

• Will scars be visible after ear pinning?

  The incision is placed behind the ear in a natural crease, where it’s usually not noticeable. Scars tend to fade nicely with time.

• How soon can I wear glasses after ear surgery?

  You may be able to resume wearing glasses within one to two weeks. Avoid pressure on the ears until the swelling has subsided and the healing process is stable.

• Are the results permanent?

  Yes. Once healing is complete, the new position of the ears remains stable. The sutures used to reshape the cartilage are designed for long-lasting durability.

Schedule Your Otoplasty Consultation Today

At MetropolitanMD, we provide honest guidance and expert care every step of the way. Schedule your consultation with Dr. Rachel in Chicago or Glenview, review your options, and receive a clear, personalized recommendation based on your needs.