Ear Surgery (Otoplasty)
Conveniently located to serve Orange County
You’re not alone if prominent or asymmetrical ears are drawing unwanted attention. Otoplasty in Orange County with Dr. Daniel Reichner can help reshape the ears for a more balanced appearance. This outpatient ear surgery is designed for individuals seeking to bring their ears into proportion with the rest of their features without affecting their hearing.
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What Is Otoplasty?
Ear surgery, also known as “otoplasty,” is a procedure that improves the size, shape, and position of the ears. Otoplasty can correct the structures of misshapen ears and alter them to appear more natural and balanced with the rest of the head and face. Cosmetic ear surgery may involve ear pinning or reshaping cartilage to create a more natural contour that better fits the face. Its results are typically long-lasting.
Make Ears Look More Natural
Ear surgery repairs a wide variety of flaws or deformities in the ears caused by genetics, congenital disabilities, or trauma, including:
- Ears that protrude from the head
- Cauliflower ear and other disfigurations
- Split or torn earlobes
- Widened piercing holes
- Macrotia (overly large ears)
Who Is a Candidate for Ear Surgery?
Individuals in good overall health, without a life-threatening illness or chronic ear infections, are candidates for ear surgery. Potential patients should not have any medical conditions that can impair healing, and protruding ears can be treated if they are not associated with hearing loss.
Your Consultation
Patients need to schedule an otoplasty consultation to get more details about the procedure. During the visit, your ears will be examined to determine exactly how your cosmetic issues can be addressed. You will also be asked questions about your medical history, including any medications you currently take.
If you have any questions or concerns about the procedure, the consultation is the best time to discuss them. It will ensure that you are informed about what to expect on the day of the procedure.
What Happens During Otoplasty?
The procedure usually takes one to two hours and is performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia. Dr. Reichner makes a small incision behind the ear to access and reshape the cartilage. In ear-pinning cases, sutures may be used to hold the ears closer to the head. Recovery is relatively quick, and most patients return to light activities within a few days.
Ear Surgery Recovery
After the otoplasty procedure, patients should not drive themselves home and should arrange for a friend or family member to drive them home instead. Once they get home, they will need to rest and recover.
Patients can expect some minor discomfort during the recovery period following ear surgery. Some swelling and bruising will also occur, but these will subside eventually. Patients will be advised to sleep on their backs, rather than on their sides, while the affected areas are still healing.
You’ll wear a light head dressing for the first few days to support healing. Minor swelling and discomfort are common but usually subside within a week. Most patients return to non-strenuous activities within five to seven days.
Here are some tips to help the healing process:
- Sleep with your head elevated to reduce swelling
- Avoid sleeping on your side for at least two weeks
- Wear a protective headband at night as recommended
- Keep the incision site clean and dry
- Follow all post-op care instructions from Dr. Reichner carefully
Benefits of Otoplasty
- Improved ear symmetry for a more balanced facial profile
- Refined ear shape or size to reduce visibility from the front or side
- Permanent correction for common structural concerns
- Natural-looking results personalized to your facial proportions
- Can be combined with facial procedures such as a facelift or brow lift for comprehensive aesthetic improvement
How Much Does Ear Surgery Cost?
The cost of ear surgery can vary depending on several factors. The total time needed to perform the procedure, the techniques utilized, and anesthesia fees can affect the price.
Patient Reviews
Patients often describe their ear-reshaping experience as smooth, comfortable, and worthwhile. Here’s what one patient had to say:
Thank you Dr. Reichner,
I am so grateful for your expertise, knowledge and your amazing gift of being a surgeon. Thank you for turning my dream into a reality.
God Bless you Richly
Read More Testimonials
Why Choose Dr. Reichner for Otoplasty in Orange County?
Daniel Reichner, M.D., F.A.C.S., is a board-certified plastic surgeon with years of experience performing cosmetic ear surgery. He approaches every otoplasty with attention to detail, proportion, and harmony with your facial features. Backed by a compassionate team, Dr. Reichner offers personalized care in a safe, accredited surgical setting.
Before & After Gallery
Explore real patient outcomes in our before-and-after photo gallery. Each case showcases subtle yet significant changes in ear positioning and shape.
Frequently Asked Questions
Schedule Your Consultation
If you’re considering otoplasty in Orange County, Dr. Daniel Reichner is here to help you feel comfortable and informed throughout the entire process. His experience in ear correction surgery and patient-focused care makes him a trusted choice. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and discuss your goals.
Your Ear Surgery (Otoplasty) will be performed in Dr. Reichner’s surgery center located in Orange County, CA.
