Otoplasty (Ear Surgery) for Men

Male ear surgery can be a good solution for men who feel their ears are out of proportion or protrude too far from their head. A lot of men cannot hide large ears with their hair, as some women can. Nearly half of all otoplasty surgeries are performed on men, making the procedure one type of cosmetic surgery that is as popular with men as it is with women. Read the sections below to learn more about ear surgery for men.

Candidates for Male Ear Surgery

If you feel your ears are too prominent or stick out too far from your head, you may be a good candidate for male ear surgery. 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 can sometimes be treated with male ear surgery. Cauliflower ear occurs when repeated blows damage the shape and structure of the outer ear. 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. Ear surgery for men who want to prevent cauliflower ear after receiving a blow to the ear consists of making a small incision in the ear and draining the blood. The skin and cartilage are then reconnected by applying a compressive bandage. In cases where the skin of the ear is badly ripped, stitches may be required to sew the ear.

The Male Ear Surgery Procedure

Male ear surgery to correct large or protruding ears is a simple, one-to-two-hour procedure. 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 removed in a few days and replaced with a thinner bandage, similar to a headband, which must be worn at night for several weeks.

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

Risks and Benefits 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 are numbness and hematomas, or blood clots.

toplasty 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.

Read more about otoplasty complications and 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.