Our Blog

Otoplasty, commonly called “pinning back the ears,” is an effective surgery available to children and adults to reduce the size of overly large ears or ears that do not lie flat against the head. Since our ears are fully developed by about age 4, many children have this surgery between the ages of four and fourteen, reducing the amount of teasing a child may go through because of prominent ears.

The risks and possible complications of otoplasty are generally minor when the surgery is performed by a qualified, experienced plastic surgeon like Dr. Leo Lapuerta. However, all surgery carries some risk.

With otoplasty, there is a low risk of:

• Blood clots
• Infection
• Formation of scar tissue

Other ear problems that can be corrected with otoplasty include:

• Lop Ear: The tip of the ear is bent or folded down
• Cupped Ear: A very small ear
• Shell Ear: The natural folds, creases and curve are missing
• Missing ears: A new ear can be created for those born without an ear or who lost an ear due to injury
• Large or stretched earlobes
• Lobes with large wrinkles or creases

The overall goal of otoplasty is an improvement in appearance, not perfection. Even after surgery, your ears may not be perfectly symmetrical. But most patients are thrilled with their new look and happy they chose otoplasty to correct the problem.

Considering otoplasty? Consult with a qualified plastic surgeon like Dr. Leo Lapuerta in Houston, Texas.