Are your ears too large for your head? Do they stick out too much?

Harmony Facial Plastic Surgery In Nashville

If you are dissatisfied with the shape or size of your ears, or if you have ever wished that your ears didn’t stick out from your head so much, there is an answer. Maybe your child is being made fun of at school because of his or her ears. The solution is otoplasty. In Nashville otoplasty is available through the services of Dr. Kate O’Connor, one of the few female plastic surgeons in the city limits of Nashville.

What is Otoplasty?

Nashville Otoplasty

The outer ear is usually at a 20 – 30-degree angle from the side of the head. An angle that is larger than 30 degrees will make the ears appear to stick out. This type of ear positioning often runs in families.

Fortunately, it does not affect hearing but can be frustrating. Otoplasty, or cosmetic ear surgery, is a surgical procedure that can improve the position or the size of the ears. It can fix defects in the ear structure from birth or an injury. The procedure can create ears that are more in proportion to the head and face. Dr. Kate O’Connor strives to deliver the best otoplasty Nashville has to offer for both children and adults.

Benefits of Otoplasty

Holistic Plastic Surgery In Nashville

For cosmetic purposes, otoplasty can change or improve many structural problems with ears. Many who opt for otoplasty are dissatisfied with the size of their ears and want to achieve a better balance with their other facial features. Some feel their ears stick out too far from their head. Others have misshapen ears due to an injury or birth defect. Some infants are born without an ear. Otoplasty can correct these problems. Otoplasty does not change the location of your ears or affect your hearing.

Am I a Candidate for Otoplasty?

Dr. O’Connor in Nashville

You are a good candidate for otoplasty if you are a healthy, non-smoker with no underlying conditions that might make healing difficult. For children, otoplasty is best done after the age of 5 when the ears have reached their full size.

However, sometimes the surgery can be done on younger children, and splinting may correct problems if started right after birth. For adults, any age can benefit from otoplasty. Although insurance usually does not cover cosmetic plastic surgery, it may cover the procedures done for those who have had injuries or for children born with severe irregularities or the absence of an ear. If you are looking for the best otoplasty in Nashville, Dr. Kate O’Connor has the expertise and training to provide the results you want.

Nashville Otoplasty male patient model smiling

What Happens During an Otoplasty Procedure?

Unique Skills. Compassionate Care.

Dr. O’Connor will first spend time listening to what you hope to achieve with ear surgery. She will evaluate the overall health of the patient including any ear infections.

She will also ask about any medications you or your child are taking. Dr. O'Connor will discuss your options and the likely outcomes of the otoplasty procedure. She will also discuss the type of anesthesia that will be used. This surgery is usually done with sedation and local anesthetic but may be done under twilight anesthesia where you will not be awake for the procedure but not as deep as general anesthesia. She will outline the expected recovery process.

The otoplasty procedure itself starts with the administration of general or local anesthesia. The technique used will depend on the type of correction you are requesting. Dr. O’Connor may make incisions on the back or in the inner creases of your ears. Excess cartilage and skin may be removed. Internal stitches will secure the cartilage after it is put into the proper position. The incisions will be closed with additional stitches. The otoplasty procedure normally takes about two hours.

What Can I Expect During Recovery from Otoplasty?

Recovery in Nashville

Every otoplasty is customized for your needs so recovery will be different for each patient. Your ears will initially be covered in bandages. You may have some discomfort and itching. It is recommended that you do not sleep on your side or rub the incisions. Dr. O’Connor will take the bandages off after a few days. You may notice some swelling and redness, and you may need to wear a loose headband that will protect your ears at night for a few weeks.

Additional Reading

The length of time of recovery will be dependent on the extent of the procedure done, but Dr. O’Connor’s holistic, integrative approach will significantly improve your healing. She uses therapies such as acupuncture and supplements to speed up the restorative process. If you are looking for otoplasty in Nashville, Kate O’Connor, M.D., will provide a safe procedure designed to correct any structural issues you have with your ears.

What Results Can I Expect from My Otoplasty?

Results in Nashville

As soon as the bandages are removed, you will see a change in your appearance. Many have reported more self-confidence after an otoplasty. Some report better quality of life. Your ears will not be as prominent. If you are having the otoplasty to correct a birth defect or results of an injury, you will see an obvious improvement. These results are permanent.

Why Should I Go to Harmony Facial Plastic Surgery for My Otoplasty?

Otoplasty in Nashville

For otoplasty in Nashville, visiting Dr. Kate O’Connor is an excellent decision. As one of the few female plastic surgeons in Nashville, she brings a feminine aesthetic eye to her procedures.

Her holistic approach results in a more natural process and recovery. Dr. O'Connor is a member of the American Academy of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, the American of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, and the Tennessee Medical Society. Contact Dr. O’Connor for a consultation to determine if otoplasty is right for you.

Empowered Decisions. Confident You.

When you decide to explore the surgical refinement of a facial feature, our goal at Harmony Facial Plastic Surgery is to begin your journey as a united team. We take our role in your care, happiness, and confidence to heart and strive to make your entire experience smooth and empowering. We will answer all your questions and help you understand your options to make the best decisions for yourself with a clear vision of your aesthetic goal in mind. We’re here to help you achieve your most confident self.

1017 16th Avenue South, Nashville, TN 37212

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OtoplastyIn Nashville