Male Otoplasty

Abnormally sized or shaped ears are a cosmetic problem that affects men just as much as women. Ears that seem to be too large, protruding, or asymmetrical can cause a person to be self-conscious or unhappy with their appearance. Many women try to hide irregular ears with their hair; however, a lot of men don't have the same luxury. Men deserve to feel attractive and confident too, which is why otoplasty, or ear surgery, is a common cosmetic surgery for men and women alike. Ear surgery should only be performed by a qualified cosmetic plastic surgeon, and can give men the ears that best suit their facial features. If you are a male interested in ear surgery, we encourage you to educate yourself on the treatment by reading the information below. Additionally, meet with a skilled plastic surgeon in your area for a consultation.

Candidates for Male Ear Surgery

The best way to learn if you are a good candidate for ear surgery is to meet with a plastic surgeon with otoplasty experience. Ideal candidates generally include men in relatively good physical and mental health with ears that are:

• Protruding
• Too large
• Too small
• Damaged or are deformed
• Cauliflower ear
• Lop - folded at the tips
• Cupped
• Needing reconstruction
• Drooping
• Asymmetrical

Many men were teased as children and called nicknames such as "Dumbo" or "Mickey Mouse." Otoplasty, though commonly performed on children between the ages of 4 and 14, is often not an option until later on in life due to parents' lack of concern about teasing or inability to afford the procedure. Ear surgery for men can increase a patient's confidence and improve his self-image by giving him a more proportional, symmetrical appearance. Learn about ideal candidates for otoplasty.

Cauliflower Ears

Cauliflower ears, which occur when damage has been done to the outer structure of the ear, can be treated with male ear surgery. When an ear is struck hard enough for a blood clot to form under the skin, or when the skin of the ear is separated from the cartilage, the normal flow of blood is blocked, depriving the cartilage of oxygen and nutrients transported by the blood. To avoid cauliflower ear from occurring after the ear has been hit, a small incision can be made in the ear to drain the blood. The skin and cartilage are then reconnected by applying a compressive bandage. Stitches may be used if the skin of the ear has been badly torn.

The Male Ear Surgery Procedure

Male ear surgery to correct large or protruding ears is a simple, one-to-two-hour procedure, which generally goes as follows:

• The otoplasty surgeon usually makes a small incision in the back of the ear.
• The cartilage is then carefully sculpted and positioned closer to the head.
  
• In some cases, a piece of cartilage may be removed to create a more natural fold.
• After the procedure, the doctor will wrap the patient's head and ears with a thick bandage to help shape and protect the ears.
• The bandage will be taken off after several days, at which time the patient will have to wear a thin bandage only at night for a few more weeks until completely healed.

Read an in-depth explanation of the steps involved in otoplasty surgery.

Risks of Male Ear Surgery

Male ear surgery has a relatively low occurrence of side effects, but as with any surgery, there are some risks. More common risks include bleeding, swelling, bruising, infection, and scarring. Much less common is numbness and hematomas, or blood clots. Read more about otoplasty complications.

Benefits of Ear Surgery

Otoplasty can make a dramatic improvement in both your appearance and self-confidence. The size, shape, and angle of a patient's ears play a large role in the symmetry and appeal of the face. Many patients find that they are less self-conscious and more outgoing after their otoplasty procedure.

Learn more about the benefits of ear surgery.

Find an Otoplasty Surgeon in Your Area

Though relatively simple, male ear surgery is an operation that requires training and skill. Only an experienced surgeon should perform ear surgery for men. Visit our directory to find a cosmetic ear surgeon in your area, and schedule a consultation for otoplasty.