Otoplasty (Ear Surgery) in Sandy Springs, Buckhead & Atlanta

Otoplasty—often called ear surgery—is designed to improve the shape, position, or symmetry of the ears so they blend more naturally with the rest of the face. For some patients, the main concern is prominent ears that project outward. For others, it’s an underdeveloped fold, a deep conchal bowl, noticeable asymmetry, or changes from prior surgery or injury. Because ears are highly visible from multiple angles and small adjustments can make a big difference, the best results come from careful planning and conservative, anatomy-driven technique.

Kavali Plastic Surgery and Skin Renewal Center is led by board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Carmen Kavali. From our Atlanta location serving patients from Sandy Springs and Buckhead, Dr. Kavali personalizes otoplasty for both adults and children (when appropriate), focusing on balanced ear contours and natural-looking projection—without looking “pinned” or overcorrected. Individual results vary.

You may be a good candidate for otoplasty if you:

• Feel your ears stick out more than you’d like (prominence)
• Notice asymmetry between the ears in size, shape, or position
• Have an underdefined antihelical fold or a deep conchal bowl that increases projection
• Have a congenital ear shape difference (case-dependent)
• Have post-traumatic ear contour changes you’d like improved (case-dependent)
• Want a long-term structural correction rather than temporary concealment (hair styling, hats, etc.)

For children, otoplasty is commonly considered when ear cartilage is mature enough for stable reshaping (often around age 5 or older), and when the child and family feel the concern is affecting confidence. For adults, candidacy is typically based on ear anatomy, skin quality, and realistic goals. If you have a history of keloids, uncontrolled medical conditions, bleeding tendencies, or active skin/ear infections, that may affect timing or candidacy. Individual results vary.

Your consultation is focused on diagnosis and customization. “Prominent ears” can be caused by different anatomic factors, and the surgical plan depends on which structures are contributing. Dr. Kavali will evaluate:

• Ear projection and symmetry from front, oblique, and profile views
• Antihelical fold definition (or lack of fold)
• Conchal bowl depth and how it relates to the scalp
• Lobule (earlobe) position, including whether it also needs refinement
• Skin quality, cartilage thickness, and “memory” (how strongly cartilage returns to its original shape)

You’ll discuss your aesthetic goals in plain language—what bothers you, what you want to keep, and how subtle or noticeable you want the change to be. Dr. Kavali will explain technique options, incision placement, anesthesia choices, expected healing, and risk considerations. If you are considering other facial procedures, you can also discuss whether combining is appropriate. Individual results vary.

Otoplasty is often performed as a standalone procedure, but in select cases it can be combined with other treatments to streamline recovery and address broader goals. Combination planning is individualized and may include:

• Earlobe refinement: when the lobule position contributes to imbalance or when the earlobe itself is elongated or asymmetric
• Facial rejuvenation procedures: for patients already planning a facelift/neck lift or eyelid surgery, where otoplasty refinement supports overall balance (case-dependent)
• Scar revision: for patients with prior otoplasty scars or contour issues (revision planning is more specialized)

Not every patient is a good candidate for combining procedures. Dr. Kavali will recommend combination treatment only when it supports your goals and remains safe and predictable. Individual results vary.

1) What is truly causing prominence or imbalance?

Many ears project because the antihelical fold is underdeveloped. Others project due to a deep conchal bowl. Some patients have both. Identifying the dominant cause helps Dr. Kavali choose techniques that look natural and remain stable.

2) How much set-back is “right” for your face?

The goal is improved harmony—not ears that look flattened to the head. Dr. Kavali plans correction based on facial proportions, hairline, and how the ear should appear from different angles. Subtle changes often look the most natural.

3) Cartilage reshaping, sutures, or a combination?

Some patients do well with suture-based fold creation. Others need controlled cartilage weakening/scoring for stability, especially with thicker cartilage or strong cartilage memory. Technique choice is tailored to anatomy and durability goals.

4) Incision placement and scar priorities

Most otoplasty incisions are placed behind the ear in the natural crease (retroauricular), where scars are typically well concealed. In select cases, limited anterior access may be used. Dr. Kavali will explain what’s appropriate for your ear anatomy and goals.

Otoplasty is customized, but a typical procedure flow often includes:

1. Anesthesia: local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia depending on age, comfort, and complexity

2. Incision placement: commonly behind the ear in a natural crease for minimal visible scarring

3. Fold creation and cartilage shaping: antihelical fold formation using permanent sutures, and/or controlled cartilage modification when needed for stability

4. Conchal setback (when indicated): repositioning deeper cartilage closer to the scalp to reduce projection

5. Symmetry refinement: careful comparison and incremental adjustment to improve balance between ears

6. Closure and dressing: layered closure followed by a protective dressing or headwrap to support the new contours during early healing

Procedure time varies based on anatomy and whether revision or additional refinement is needed, but many cases are completed in roughly 1–2 hours. Most patients go home the same day with a responsible adult. Individual results vary.

After otoplasty, your ears will typically be protected with a dressing or headwrap that supports the new shape and helps minimize swelling. Early post-op care commonly includes:

• Keeping the head elevated when resting
• Using cold compresses as directed (case-dependent)
• Taking prescribed medications as instructed
• Avoiding pressure on the ears (sleeping on your back, careful clothing changes)
• Protecting ears from accidental bending, rubbing, or impact

Most patients describe soreness, tightness, or a pressure sensation rather than severe pain. It is common to have swelling and temporary sensitivity during early healing. Individual recovery experiences vary.

Recovery depends on technique, individual healing, and lifestyle factors. Many patients experience the following general timeline:

• Days 1–7: swelling and tenderness are most noticeable; protective dressing/headband is typically worn as directed
• Week 1–2: many patients return to school or desk work, depending on comfort and visibility of swelling
• Weeks 2–4: continued refinement; nighttime headband use may be recommended to protect ears during sleep
• Weeks 4–6+: gradual return to exercise; contact sports and activities that risk ear trauma are usually restricted longer

Dr. Kavali will provide personalized guidance on showering, hair washing, incision care, headband wear, and when you can safely return to workouts, swimming, and sports. Following aftercare instructions closely is one of the best ways to protect long-term shape and stability. Individual results vary.

Otoplasty is generally considered a low-risk procedure when performed by an appropriately trained, board-certified surgeon, but all surgery carries risk. Potential considerations include:

• Bleeding, infection, delayed healing
• Hematoma or fluid collection (may require treatment)
• Asymmetry or under-/over-correction
• Contour irregularities during healing (often improve as swelling resolves)
• Suture irritation or rare suture extrusion
• Scar thickening (risk varies by individual; behind-the-ear scars are often well concealed)
• Recurrence/partial relapse (risk varies based on cartilage properties and technique)
• Anesthesia-related risks

Dr. Kavali will review how risks relate to your anatomy, health history, and procedure plan. Individual results vary and cannot be guaranteed.

Otoplasty is designed to provide long-lasting improvement in ear shape and projection. However, long-term stability is influenced by cartilage thickness, cartilage “memory,” healing response, and protecting the ears from trauma during recovery. Maintaining healthy habits—like avoiding smoking and following scar-care instructions—can support better healing.

For patients who play sports, especially contact sports, it’s important to follow return-to-activity guidance and use appropriate protective equipment when you resume full activity. Routine follow-ups help ensure healing is progressing well and allow early intervention if any issue arises. Individual results vary.

Because the ear’s curves are complex and small changes are highly visible, technique and judgment matter. Look for board certification, an established approach to safety, and a surgeon whose results match your preference for natural-looking refinement.

You can learn more about board certification standards through the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Medical Specialties. If you’d like to explore the practice gallery, you can view Before & After Photos. Individual results vary.

Otoplasty cost in the Atlanta area can vary based on the technique used, whether the case is primary vs. revision, anesthesia needs, and facility fees. Many patients fall within an approximate range of $4,500 to $9,500+, though the total can be lower or higher depending on complexity and whether other procedures are combined.

Your consultation will clarify what is included and what may be separate (for example, surgeon fee, anesthesia, and facility). Financing options may be available for qualified patients. Learn more here: patient financing.

If you’re considering otoplasty in Sandy Springs, Buckhead, or Atlanta, the next step is a consultation to evaluate ear anatomy, clarify your goals, and design a plan that prioritizes natural contours and stable healing.

To schedule, call 404.250.3333, email info(at)drkavali(dotted)com, or request an appointment via the contact page.

At what age can a child have otoplasty?

Otoplasty is often considered once ear cartilage is developed enough for stable reshaping, commonly around age 5 or older. The best timing depends on anatomy, maturity, and family goals. Dr. Kavali will discuss whether surgery is appropriate and what recovery looks like for children and parents. Individual results vary.

Will my ears look “pinned back” after surgery?

The goal is natural projection and balance, not an overcorrected look. Surgical planning focuses on maintaining realistic ear position and normal curves. If you prefer a subtle change, that preference can be incorporated into your plan. Individual results vary.

How long is otoplasty downtime?

Many patients return to school or desk work in about 1 week, depending on swelling and comfort. Strenuous exercise and activities that risk ear impact are usually restricted longer. Your exact timeline depends on technique and healing. Individual results vary.

Will there be visible scars?

Most otoplasty incisions are placed behind the ear in a natural crease, where scars are typically well concealed. Scar appearance varies by individual skin type and healing response. Dr. Kavali will review incision placement and scar-care guidance during consultation. Individual results vary.

Is otoplasty painful?

Most patients report soreness, tightness, or pressure rather than severe pain. Discomfort is typically manageable with prescribed medications and tends to improve as early swelling resolves. Dr. Kavali will give specific aftercare instructions to help keep you comfortable. Individual results vary.

Can otoplasty fix asymmetry?

Otoplasty can often improve visible asymmetry by adjusting ear position and contour, but perfect symmetry is not realistic because natural facial asymmetry is common. The goal is improved balance that looks natural in real life. Dr. Kavali will discuss what can be improved based on your anatomy. Individual results vary.

How long do otoplasty results last?

Otoplasty is designed to provide long-lasting correction, and many patients enjoy results for years. Long-term stability depends on cartilage properties, technique, and protecting the ears during healing. Your follow-ups help confirm healing and shape stability. Individual results vary.

Can adults get otoplasty, or is it only for kids?

Adults can absolutely have otoplasty. The main differences are cartilage stiffness and lifestyle considerations during recovery. Dr. Kavali tailors technique to your cartilage characteristics and your goals for subtlety and projection. Individual results vary.