Refine Your Ears – Otoplasty (Ear Surgery)

Otoplasty—also called ear surgery—corrects prominent, misshapen, or asymmetrical ears to restore balanced facial harmony. Patients from Sandy Springs, Buckhead, and Atlanta can achieve refined ear contours through cartilage reshaping and ear repositioning. At our Sandy Springs center, Dr. Carmen Kavali delivers personalized otoplasty procedures that produce lasting, natural-looking results for both adults and children across the Atlanta area.

The external ear (pinna) is composed primarily of cartilage covered by a thin layer of skin. Its key landmarks include:

• Helix & Antihelix: The outer and inner ridges that define the ear’s shape.
• Conchal Bowl: The central depression; excessive depth here pushes the ear away from the scalp.
• Lobule: The soft, fatty lower portion of the ear without cartilage.

Ideal ear aesthetics feature:

• Moderate projection (15–20 mm from the scalp)
• Smooth, well-defined curves of the helix and antihelix
• Symmetry between both ears

Otoplasty adjusts cartilage and soft tissue to reduce prominence, refine contours, and harmonize the ears with the rest of the face.

Candidates in Sandy Springs, Buckhead, and Atlanta include patients with:

• Prominent Ears: Excessively outward-sticking ears due to an underdeveloped antihelical fold or deep concha.
• Asymmetry: Noticeable differences in size, shape, or position between the two ears.
• Congenital Deformities: Conditions such as Stahl’s ear, lop ear, or cup deformity.
• Traumatic Deformities: Ear irregularities resulting from injury or burns requiring functional and cosmetic reconstruction.

Dr. Kavali confirms candidacy through medical history review, ear examination, and a discussion of individual goals.

• Enhanced Facial Harmony: Brings ear projection into balance with facial features.
• Boosted Confidence: Reduces self-consciousness and social anxiety.
• Permanent Results: A one-time procedure versus temporary infant ear molds.
• Minimal Visible Scarring: Incisions hidden behind the ear or within natural creases.
• Quick Recovery: Return to school or desk work in about one week; resume full activities in six weeks.

Ideal candidates for otoplasty are:

• Children (Age 5+): Cartilage strength is sufficient by age five to reshape ears and prevent teasing.
• Adults with Realistic Goals: Seeking aesthetic improvement without expecting absolute symmetry.
• Healthy Individuals: No uncontrolled medical conditions or active ear infections.
• Non-Smokers (or Willing to Quit): Tobacco cessation before and after surgery supports optimal healing.

All patients receive a clear overview of risks, benefits, and expected outcomes before moving forward.

Dr. Kavali uses FDA-approved methods—sometimes in combination—to achieve durable, natural-looking results:

1. Cartilage Scoring (Incision & Suture)

• Antihelical Fold Creation: Small anterior cartilage incisions weaken memory, allowing inward folding when secured by permanent sutures.
• Conchal Reduction: Partial cartilage removal or scoring decreases conchal prominence.
• Suture Fixation: Nonabsorbable sutures lock in the new contours.

2. Mustardé Technique (Suture-Only)

• Suture Folds: Horizontal mattress sutures create the antihelical fold without cartilage incisions, minimizing internal scarring.

3. Conchal Setback

• Perichondrial Release: Frees conchal cartilage from underlying tissue for mobilization.
• Suture Repositioning: Anchors the concha closer to the mastoid fascia, reducing projection.
• Technique choice is tailored to cartilage thickness, degree of correction, and patient preference.

Technique choice is tailored to cartilage thickness, degree of correction, and patient preference.

• Medical & Ear Examination: Assess cartilage quality, skin thickness, and any prior surgeries.
• Photographic Documentation: Standardized front, oblique, and profile images measure current ear projection.
• Digital Simulation: Visual preview of anticipated ear position and fold definition.
• Technique Discussion: Select incision site (posterior vs. limited anterior) and anesthesia type (local with sedation vs. general).
• Procedure Combination: Evaluate simultaneous earlobe reshaping or other facial enhancements.

A comprehensive plan aligns expectations and ensures a personalized approach for every patient.

1. Anesthesia & Monitoring

• Local anesthesia with IV sedation for older children and adults.
• General anesthesia for younger children or complex revisions.
• Continuous monitoring by certified anesthesia providers.

2. Incision Placement

• Posterior (Retroauricular): Hidden in the natural crease behind the ear.
• Minimal Anterior: Small incision on the front surface—sealed with fine sutures.

3. Cartilage Modification

• Scoring & Suturing: Cartilage incisions and permanent sutures reshape folds.
• Conchal Reduction: Excise or score cartilage to refine projection.

4. Closure & Dressing

• Layered closure with absorbable sutures in skin and subcutaneous tissue.
• Molded headband or ear-to-scalp dressing applied for 5–7 days to support healing.

⏱️ Procedure Time: 1–2 hours
🏠 Discharge: Same day, with a responsible escort

• Pre-operative Clearance: Routine blood work and EKG (if indicated).
• Medication Review: Discontinue aspirin, NSAIDs, and certain supplements 10–14 days prior.
• Smoking & Vaping: Cease at least four weeks before and after surgery.
• Alcohol: Avoid one week pre- and post-procedure.
• Logistics:
  • Arrange transportation home and 24–48 hours of post-op support.
  • Prepare a recovery area with elevated pillows, ice packs, soft foods, and entertainment.

Adhering to these guidelines minimizes complications and ensures a smoother recovery.

Days 1–7

• Dressings & Headband: Worn continuously for 5–7 days, removed only for brief cleaning per instructions.
• Swelling & Discomfort: Managed with prescribed pain medication and cold compresses.
• Sleeping Position: Back sleeping with head elevated to protect new ear contours.

Weeks 2–4

• Suture Care: Absorbable sutures dissolve; nonabsorbable removed around day 7–10.
• Gradual Activity: Gentle walking encouraged; avoid contact sports, swimming, and tight headgear.
• Night Support: Wear a soft headband at night for three to four weeks.

Months 1–3

• Contour Maturation: Cartilage settles into its new shape; residual swelling dissipates.
• Scar Fading: Posterior scars fade to fine, pale lines by three to six months.
• Follow-Up Visits: Scheduled at one week, one month, and three months.

Strict aftercare compliance maximizes long-term stability and aesthetic outcome.

Otoplasty is low-risk when performed by a board-certified facial plastic surgeon. Potential complications include:

• Infection: Minimized with sterile technique and peri-operative antibiotics.
• Hematoma/Seroma: May require drainage if they occur.
• Asymmetry or Overcorrection: Minor revisions possible.
• Suture Extrusion: Rare; managed in-office if sutures become exposed.
• Scar Hypertrophy: Uncommon behind the ear; silicone gel or steroid injections can improve appearance.

Comprehensive pre-op evaluation and strict post-op care significantly reduce these risks.

Patients frequently combine otoplasty with:

• Facelift or Neck Lift: Rejuvenates lower face and neck while refining ear-to-face proportions.
• Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery): Refreshes upper and lower eyelids in the same session.
• Rhinoplasty: Balances nasal shape with ear projection for a harmonious profile.

Bundled procedures streamline recovery and deliver cohesive full-face transformations.

When considering otoplasty in Sandy Springs, Buckhead, or Atlanta, look for:

• Board Certification: Verified by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ABFPRS).
• Accredited Surgical Center: AAAASF, AAAHC, or The Joint Commission accreditation.
• Before-and-After Gallery: Review real patient results for natural ear shapes.
• Patient Testimonials: Consistent praise for surgical skill, communication, and follow-up care.

Dr. Carmen Kavali meets all these criteria, offering safe, personalized otoplasty in our modern Sandy Springs facility.

• Durability: Results are designed to last a lifetime; routine check-ups confirm stability.
• Protective Measures: Wear appropriate headgear for sports and use sun protection to preserve skin and scars.
• Activity Resumption: Most patients return to full activities after six weeks, once cartilage is stable.

Regular follow-ups allow early detection and management of any late-onset concerns.

Ready to refine your ears with otoplasty? Contact Monarch Plastic Surgery & Skin Renewal Center:

• Call: 404.250.3333
• Email: info(at)drkavali(dotted)com
• Visit: 6045 Barfield Rd, Suite 100, Atlanta, GA 30328
• Online: Request a Consultation

Your personalized evaluation will include precise ear measurements, photographic analysis, and a clear surgical plan—helping you achieve balanced, natural-looking ears in Sandy Springs, Buckhead, or anywhere in the Atlanta area.