Ear Setback

The correction of prominent ears can be surgically corrected with otoplasty, or ear setback surgery, in both children and adults. We have found it is best in children with prominent ears to delay surgery until the child is old enough to participate in the decision to undergo surgery.  We do ear setback surgery comfortably and safely under local anesthesia and twilight sleep (IV sedation), even on children as young as 5 years of age.

Even though this deformity may be present from birth, otoplasty is regarded by most insurance companies as cosmetic and not reimbursable.

Ear setback surgery can be done as early as 5 yrs of age, but is often delayed to allow for added maturity.  In our practice most otoplasties are done under local anesthesia and usually in our accredited office operating room. Incisions are hidden behind the ears and the surgery reshapes the supporting ear cartilage. Approximate time for this surgery is 60-90 minutes. Complications with otoplasty is relatively rare.

As with any other cosmetic procedure, the best way to obtain specific information is in a personal consultation with one or more surgeons certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.