Otoplasty surgeons correct oversized or misshapen ears or ears that stick out too far from the head. If you struggle with any of these issues, you’ll need to see one of the top otoplasty surgeon specialists to perform your ear surgery.
With that said, finding one of the best surgeons for otoplasty near you may be difficult if you’ve never been to see a plastic surgeon before. Below, we’ve laid out everything you need to know about finding a top-notch otoplasty surgeon for your Chicago otoplasty procedure.
How to Find a Surgeon When You Need Cosmetic Ear Surgery
Whether you’ve always been self-conscious about your protruding ears or the issue has only just started to bother you, the good news is that ear reduction surgery or otoplasty may very well be the answer. Many patients with overly large or protruding ears don’t even realize there’s a reconstructive surgery available for this issue.
But the truth is, having overly large ears is actually more common than you may think. It is usually caused by either too much ear cartilage in the upper part of the ear or an underdeveloped antihelical fold, which causes the upper ear to stick out.
Either way, cosmetic surgery can help to correct ear structure, but you do need to choose the right plastic surgeon for the procedure. Here are some steps to follow in order to find one.
Step 1: Search for plastic surgeons near you.
Unless you are open to traveling for surgery, look up “otoplasty plastic surgeon” plus your location in Google. Naturally, you might also consider asking friends or family members for recommendations if they are familiar with plastic surgeons.
Start creating a list with a few of the surgeons you find in your target area. Briefly browse their websites to make sure they are possible candidates. Doing all of this will give you a small pool of surgeons to start out with.
Step 2: Narrow down your search.
Next, narrow down the small list you have created to the two or three surgeons you like best. Start by selecting only board certified plastic surgeons. Board certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery ensures these surgeons have gone through extra rigorous training in patient safety and the latest otoplasty techniques and advancements in ear pinning.
Look at their otoplasty before and after pictures as well. Concentrate on the ear shape, especially of the outer ear in the “after” pictures. How do the results look? Is it a natural shape? Do they still have a prominent ear or prominent ears? Can you see any noticeable scarring?
Select the top two or three surgeons to schedule evaluations with.
Step 3: Schedule consultation appointments.
Call your short list surgeons and book consultation appointments. It is imperative that you meet with your potential surgeons before actually scheduling surgery.
Not only will your surgeons require this, but it’s also a great time for you to meet and get to know each surgeon. You can discuss your options, talk about your goals, undergo a physical examination, and ask questions.
Step 4: Prepare for your consultations.
Before attending your consultation appointments, be sure to prepare what you’ll need ahead of time.
First, know what you plan to discuss — that is, what your goals for surgery are. You’ll also want to have some details about your medical history with you as they may ask you about this. Be sure to bring a list of any current medications and supplements you are taking.
Finally, if you have pictures you’d like to show your surgeon or a list of questions about the surgery, bring these as well.
Step 5: Meet with each surgeon to discuss your otoplasty surgery options.
At your consultation, ask to see before and after photos or reviews from past clients. Ask about each surgeon’s medical training and experience performing otoplasty. Get to know them and their style of medicine.
It is perfectly fine to ask your surgeon how often they perform ear surgery or otoplasty as well. You want someone who performs this surgical procedure relatively frequently so that they have recent and extensive experience.
Step 6: Select a surgeon you feel confident with.
Lastly, based on all of the information you have collected so far, choose a plastic surgeon to work with, and call to schedule your surgery. You may need an additional pre-surgery appointment or two depending on the extent of your cosmetic procedure and the preferences of your surgeon.
FAQ: Otoplasty Surgeon
What type of anesthesia is used with otoplasty surgery?
Otoplasty surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia with intravenous sedation for your comfort. It can also be performed with general anesthesia if necessary.
Where can I find one of the best ear plastic surgeons near me?
If you are in the Chicago area, board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Dahlia Rice performs otoplasty in addition to a range of other reconstructive and cosmetic surgeries. Call Dr. Rice’s office to book your initial consultation appointment today.
Contact Our Office to Book a Consultation
Having large or protruding ears can cause self esteem issues, especially in younger patients — but in older patients as well. With a relatively short operation and permanent sutures, otoplasty can help you achieve attractive ears that have a natural appearance.
Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Dahlia Rice performs ear surgery as well as other plastic surgery procedures at her Chicago practice. Call us today to set up a consultation appointment with female plastic surgeon Dr. Rice and start your journey toward the new you!
References
https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/ear-surgery/surgeon