At RENATA Facial Cosmetic Surgery in Brooklyn otoplasty or ear reshaping surgery is available for adult patients as well as for children over the age of five. Otoplasty can correct a variety of concerns about the size of the ears, how far the ears protrude, or their shape. At RENATA Facial Cosmetic Surgery in Northern Brooklyn, Dr. Renata Khelemsky is a double board-certified facial cosmetic and reconstructive surgeon who specializes in procedures of the face and neck. Learn if Otoplasty is right for you by scheduling a personalized consultation today.
Otoplasty, also known as ear reshaping, is a cosmetic surgery that improves the size, shape, or position of the ears to create a more symmetrical and pleasant appearance. For many patients, this means “pinning back” both ears to lessen how much they protrude from the frontal view. In other cases, surgery may only be needed on one side, or a combination of techniques may be used to obtain the right balance and symmetry between both sides. During an otoplasty New York Facial Cosmetic Surgeon, Dr.Khelemsky, will remove a carefully measured amount of cartilage and skin, and stitches are used to stabilize the ears in their new position. With the proper aftercare, the results of this type of surgery are permanent. Ear surgery is performed on the outer and visible structures of the ears and does not extend internally into the ear canal. For this reason, ear reshaping surgery does not address hearing issues. Instead, it is primarily used to improve the appearance of the external ears.
Otoplasty offers a transformative solution for individuals concerned with ears that protrude or seem disproportionate to the face. This procedure goes beyond simply "pinning back" the ears—it also involves reshaping and refining their overall appearance. Whether addressing large or asymmetrical ears, correcting earlobe deformities, or repairing damage caused by trauma, the aim is to restore harmony and enhance confidence in how the ears contribute to the overall facial aesthetic.
If you've ever felt self-conscious about the appearance of your ears, otoplasty provides a straightforward, permanent solution. Whether you have prominent ears—also known as prominauris —lack symmetry or have other concerns, this procedure brings your ears into better alignment with your facial features. The result is a more balanced and visibly improved appearance from all angles, allowing you to feel more at ease and no longer need to hide behind hairstyles or hats. Best of all, the results are long-lasting, with no need for ongoing treatments or maintenance once the healing process is complete.
What many appreciate most about otoplasty is its customization. It’s not simply about pinning the ears back as much as possible; the goal is to achieve a balanced and harmonious look. This requires a thorough physical examination that takes into account facial features, hairstyles, and individual aesthetic goals. Many patients dislike ears that are "too flat" just as much as they dislike ears that are "too protruding." Additionally, aspects such as the size and shape of the earlobe can be adjusted for greater harmony. The aim is to make subtle, personalized changes that enhance your unique features without appearing overdone. After the procedure, the results are designed to blend seamlessly with your overall look.
The most popular reason among patients looking to have Otoplasty, or ear reshaping surgery, is for the correction of ears that are too projected or protrusive. The purpose of otoplasty is to surgically reduce the amount by which the ear projects from the scalp. Patients commonly call this “ear pinning” surgery.
However, patients also choose to have ear reshaping surgery to change the shape of their earlobes, improve symmetry, repair the ear after an accident or trauma, or correct certain ear deformities. During your consultation, Dr. Renata Khelemsky will evaluate your ears and learn more about your concerns and expectations to better customize a treatment plan that is unique to you and your aesthetic goals. There are many types of otoplasty techniques, and Dr. Khelemsky will use the most suitable approach based on your needs.
Parents of children who are considering otoplasty will be counseled on the ideal timing of surgery. Dr. Khelemsky recommends that patients delay ear surgery until at least 5 or 6 years of age, as this is the time when the majority of ear growth and development has occurred. At this age the ear cartilage will have adequate firmness to withstand the surgery as well as the desired pliability to facilitate reshaping. Furthermore, children at this age are soon to meet or have just begun social interactions with their classmates. Surgical correction of any ear concerns at this early age can help to reduce feelings of shame or embarrassment and even teasing from others, leading to a tremendously positive psychological impact. Adult patients considering ear reshaping surgery do not have any age restrictions when it comes to the timing of surgery. Candidates for otoplasty are generally in good health, avoid smoking, do not have untreated diseases involving the ears, and are able to closely follow post surgical instructions to ensure optimal results.
Preparing for an otoplasty involves a few essential steps. During the consultation, your photos will be reviewed, and goals will be discussed. A clear surgical plan for achieving the desired results will be outlined. Based on one’s medical history, it may be recommended to temporarily stop certain medications, such as aspirin or blood thinners, to minimize surgical risks. It is also important to refrain from smoking before and after the procedure to support optimal healing.
An otoplasty takes approximately one hour per side. However, surgical times vary depending on the complexity of each procedure. Local and sedation anesthesia is used during the procedure. Depending on the type of otoplasty performed, Dr. Khelemsky will make an incision in the back of the ears where it is well hidden. Next, careful measurements are performed, and the ear will be reshaped, trimmed, or folded using delicate maneuvers and stitches. Once the procedure is complete, a snug and fluffy head dressing is applied to protect the newly reshaped ears and provide comfort during sleep. The head dressing is usually removed after three to seven days.
After an otoplasty, patients will need to wear a fluffy head dressing made of gauze is worn for several days. Patients are advised to avoid touching or scratching the ears during this time. Over-the-counter medications and occasionally prescription medications may be used to ease itching or discomfort. Sleeping should take place with the head of the bed slightly elevated and avoid direct pressure on the ears. A travel neck pillow is recommended. Otoplasty patients are reminded to use clothing that is easy to put on and take off, such as a button-up or zippered clothing, to avoid pulling on the bandage. Once the bandage is removed, the ears will have visible swelling. Numbness or tingling along the ears, as well as minor bruising, are expected. These side effects are common and should subside in one to two weeks. Gentle care of the incisions behind the ears is advised during the early healing period. Complying with frequent follow-up visits will ensure a smooth recovery and optimal results.
Otoplasty offers several techniques tailored to the patient’s unique anatomy and aesthetic goals, ranging from traditional cartilage removal to minimally invasive approaches. Each technique is chosen based on the patient’s baseline anatomy, ensuring a customized approach that balances surgical precision with aesthetic goals.
Cartilage excision otoplasty involves removing excess cartilage from the conchal bowl, the hollow area near the ear canal. This technique is particularly effective for reducing ear prominence by decreasing the depth of the bowl, allowing the ear to rest closer to the head. It is most commonly used for ears that protrude due to excess cartilage, a condition often noticeable from the back (posterior) view. In many cases, cartilage excision is combined with other techniques, such as suture-based methods, to achieve optimal symmetry and a natural appearance.
Cartilage sparing otoplasty focuses on reshaping and repositioning the ear using long-lasting sutures rather than removing cartilage. A widely used technique, the Mustardé suture, creates the natural antihelical fold in the upper ear, correcting prominence caused by an underdeveloped or unfolded ear structure. Another approach, the Furnas suture, secures the ear closer to the head by adjusting the cartilage at the back of the ear, reducing its angle from the frontal view. These methods can be used individually or combined with cartilage removal to achieve the best cosmetic outcome.
Incisionless otoplasty is a minimally invasive technique that involves small, precise incisions to access and reshape the ear cartilage from the outer surface. This approach avoids a larger incision behind the ear and can often be performed in-office under local anesthesia. As a result, patients benefit from reduced scarring and a quicker recovery. However, this method is best suited for mild cases of prominent ears; not all patients are ideal candidates. A consultation with a skilled surgeon is essential to determine if this technique is appropriate for your needs.
In about one to two weeks, the swelling will subside, and the aesthetic results of surgery will become evident. As with most facial cosmetic procedures, the total healing time may take up to six months, but most patients see a significant difference that is “restaurant ready” within a few weeks. Although minor changes to the ears may occur over the years, the results of Otoplasty are expected to last a lifetime.
The cost of otoplasty is influenced by several factors, including the surgeon's expertise, the complexity of the procedure, whether one or both ears are being treated, and the geographical location of the practice.
On average, the surgeon's fee for otoplasty ranges from $4,000 to $8,000, though this can increase based on the complexity of the procedure. The use of sedation anesthesia, which is commonly employed to ensure comfort during the surgery, may also impact the overall cost, as it involves additional fees for the anesthesia team and the facility.
For a more personalized estimate, it’s best to consult directly with a board-certified cosmetic surgeon like Dr. Renata Khelemsky, who can provide a detailed breakdown based on your individual needs and goals. During the consultation, you'll receive a precise estimate tailored to your specific situation. While the cost may seem significant, many patients find the lasting results well worth the investment. Additionally, financing options are often available to help make the procedure more affordable.
We offer surgeon-based care focused on highlighting your unique beauty. Possessing a keen eye, gentle touch, and deft technical skill, Dr. Renata stays at the forefront of aesthetic medicine to bring you the highest level of care available, tailoring every service to your unique needs.
Our state-of-the-art facial aesthetic clinic is located in DUMBO, Brooklyn, in New York City. We cater to the local areas, including Downtown Brooklyn, Brooklyn Heights, Park Slope, Williamsburg, Long Island City, and Cobble Hill, as well as Manhattan and New York City at large. Patients can expect a premium experience in our luxury office setting, where attention to privacy and one-on-one care create a professionally tranquil and high-quality visit.
A double-board-certified facial cosmetic and reconstructive surgeon, Dr. Renata Khelemsky specializes in enhancing natural beauty. A Fellow of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery and diplomate of the American Board of Facial Cosmetic Surgery, her personalized approach begins with a comprehensive analysis of your facial features, ensuring each transformation celebrates your unique individuality.
Learn More About Dr. Renata
Call (646) 558-3757 or complete our online form to schedule your consultation for ear reshaping surgery (otoplasty). Our tailored approach to various otoplasty procedures and expert-level care set us apart from other providers, ensuring a top-notch experience that enhances your confidence and natural beauty. Schedule your personalized consultation with New York Facial Cosmetic Surgeon, Dr. Renata Khelemsky, today.
During surgery, you will be administered a local anesthetic and sedation anesthesia and will be quite comfortable during the procedure. During recovery, you may experience some itching and light throbbing sensations, but these symptoms can be alleviated with your assigned regimen of medications.
Ear reshaping surgery is a relatively safe surgical procedure; however, some risks include bleeding, infection, scarring, asymmetry, over/under correction, or numbness. Complying with follow-up office visits will greatly minimize your risks of surgery.
During your consultation, Dr. Khelemsky will assess your ears and discuss your options for ear reshaping surgery. A personalized treatment plan will be created for each patient, and Dr. Khelemsky and her team will discuss the cost of the surgery at this time.
Otoplasty involves making incisions behind the ears in the natural creases, which helps conceal any scarring. If the earlobes are also adjusted, incisions may be made along them. While all surgeries leave some scarring, the goal is to place incisions in areas where they will be discreet and fade over time. With proper surgical techniques, scarring is typically minimal and becomes nearly invisible. Most patients find the scars to be inconspicuous and do not require scar management treatments.
For minor corrections, there may be non-surgical options, such as using dermal fillers to add volume to a thinned or stretched earlobe. However, these are temporary solutions. For more significant changes, surgery is really the most effective and lasting option.
No, otoplasty is purely a cosmetic procedure designed to reshape and reposition the ears for a more aesthetically pleasing appearance in relation to the face. While it enhances the ear's appearance from the front, side, and back views by reducing its prominence or asymmetry with the other side, it does not affect the inner ear or hearing ability.
There’s no upper age limit for otoplasty. Dr. Renata Khelemsky performs this procedure on both children (typically over the age of five, once the ears have adequately developed) and adults of any age. The best candidates are healthy individuals who are non-smokers and have realistic expectations. Otoplasty may present some challenges in the elderly population due to more brittle cartilage. However, this may not always be the case.
Like any surgery, otoplasty carries some risks, including infection, bleeding, nerve disturbances, and scarring. Specifically, there is a risk of lingering asymmetry, which may require revision procedures. However, otoplasty is generally considered a safe and well-tolerated procedure when performed by an experienced surgeon. All potential risks and complications will be thoroughly discussed during your personalized consultation.
At RENATA Facial Cosmetic Surgery, we prioritize privacy. While many Before & After photos are featured on our social media channels, we understand not everyone wishes to share them publicly. To respect our patients’ unique preferences, we invite you to explore a more comprehensive Before & After gallery during your consultation in our office.
Life can be demanding, and we understand. For patients who may be traveling, preparing for a last-minute occasion, or simply looking for a more exclusive experience without any inconvenience or delays, we are pleased to offer preferred patient scheduling. Patients may undergo a personal consultation as well as tailored cosmetic treatments during evening hours or weekends. Appointments are required and premium rates apply. Please call our office to inquire about preferred patient scheduling and allow us to create an exceptional experience just for you.
Request a ConsultationAt RENATA Facial Cosmetic Surgery, patients receive excellent customer service, communication, personal attention, and scheduling flexibility. Located in the historical and breathtaking waterfront neighborhood of DUMBO, Brooklyn in New York City, our office serves local neighborhoods including Brooklyn Heights, Park Slope, Williamsburg, and Cobble Hill, as well as Manhattan and New York City at large.
Our office location is:
58 Prospect Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Monday - Friday: 8:30AM to 4:30PM Saturday (by appointment only): 9:30 to 2:30PM
