At The Cohen Clinic for Plastic Surgery in McLean, Virginia, we offer otoplasty, also known as ear pinning or ear reshaping surgery, to help patients achieve a more balanced and natural ear appearance. Whether you feel self-conscious about protruding ears, asymmetry, or misshapen ear cartilage, otoplasty can help restore confidence and refine your appearance. This procedure is commonly performed on both children and adults, providing long-lasting results with minimal downtime.
Otoplasty is a cosmetic procedure that reshapes and repositions the ears to improve their size, shape, or symmetry. The surgery typically addresses protruding ears, helping to create a more natural appearance by pinning the ears closer to the head. It can also correct deformities caused by injury or birth defects, such as overly large ears or misshapen ear cartilage. Otoplasty is a highly customizable procedure, and Dr. Cohen works closely with each patient to achieve their desired results while maintaining a natural, proportional look.
Ideal candidates for otoplasty are individuals who are self-conscious about their ears’ size, shape, or position. This procedure is suitable for patients of all ages, though it is often performed on children between the ages of five and fourteen when ear cartilage is more flexible and fully developed. Candidates should have good overall health and realistic expectations about the outcome. Dr. Cohen will assess your specific concerns during a consultation and develop a personalized treatment plan to achieve the most natural-looking results.
Otoplasty is typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation for adults or general anesthesia for children. Dr. Cohen will make small incisions behind the ears to access and reshape the cartilage. Depending on the patient’s goals, excess cartilage and skin may be removed, and the ear will be repositioned closer to the head. The incisions are carefully closed with sutures, and because they are placed behind the ear, any scarring is virtually invisible. The procedure generally takes one to two hours, and patients can return home the same day.
After otoplasty, patients may experience mild swelling, bruising, or discomfort, typically subsiding within a few days. Dr. Cohen will provide specific aftercare instructions, including how to care for the surgical site and avoid putting pressure on the ears during the healing process. A protective headband may be recommended to support the ears during recovery. Most patients can return to light activities within a week, with full recovery expected in about two to three weeks. Otoplasty offers long-lasting results, providing a more proportionate and balanced ear appearance.
At The Cohen Clinic patients receive more than just rejuvenating surgical and cosmetic treatments. Dr. Justin Cohen takes the time to truly understand his patients and their unique goals. He gives honest recommendations and believes every result should be natural and personalized.
Nationally Certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery
MEET DR. COHENIf you are considering otoplasty, Dr. Cohen and the expert team at The Cohen Clinic for Plastic Surgery in McLean, Virginia, are here to guide you through the process. Contact us today through our online contact form to schedule a consultation.