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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.

When it comes to plastic surgery, the term ‘Board Certified’ means a physician has achieved Board Certification obtained only through the American Board of Plastic Surgery, awarded only after the physician has:

• Completed a formal residency in Plastic Surgery
• Passed a rigorous written examination
• Passed a difficult oral examination

In the United States, certification is voluntary. Board certification, however, indicates a physician’s exceptional expertise in his or her specialty as well as providing consumers with a method for measuring a physician’s knowledge, experience and skills.

Before a physician can apply for board certification, he or she must have completed at minimum:

• College
• Medical School
• A one year Internship in General Surgery
• 3-5 years of Residency in a general specialty
• Additional Residency in Plastic Surgery

Why is Board Certification important? The American Board of Plastic Surgery says it best when they explain, ”Finding the right doctor is essential to your good health. ABMS Member Board Certified Specialists are leaders in their field because they voluntarily participate in lifelong learning to keep their skills and knowledge current. They demonstrate their commitment to quality clinical outcomes, patient safety and a responsive, patient-centered practice through participation in a continuous Maintenance of Certification (MOC) program.”

Dr. Leo Lapuerta is a plastic surgeon in Houston, Texas offering all aspects of plastic surgery. Schedule a private consultation with Dr. Lapuerta to discuss your plastic surgery needs.