Otoplasty (Ear Surgery)
Reshape and reposition ears for improved appearance and confidence with expert otoplasty surgery for patients in Palm Beach and Broward counties.
What is Otoplasty?
Otoplasty, also known as ear surgery, is a procedure that reshapes and repositions the ears to improve their appearance and proportion. This surgery can address prominent ears, correct asymmetry, and enhance overall facial harmony. Otoplasty is commonly performed on both children and adults. The objective is proportional balance and confidence improvement while preserving a natural ear contour.
Dr. Georgina Nichols specializes in precise otoplasty techniques that create natural-looking results while maintaining the ear's natural function and appearance. Planning includes careful review of ear cartilage strength, asymmetry, scar placement strategy, and age-appropriate recovery expectations for both children and adults. Consultation also covers headband use, activity restrictions, school or work timing, and how swelling evolves so families can plan recovery with less uncertainty. We also discuss unilateral versus bilateral correction strategy, expected symmetry limits, and how to stage return to sports or contact activities safely. Families receive clear guidance on sleeping position, ear protection, and signs that warrant urgent follow-up during early healing. The goal is better ear proportion and confidence with a balanced result that looks natural from multiple angles.
Before you choose surgery
Every procedure carries risks—including bleeding, infection, scarring, anesthesia complications, blood clots, and outcomes that may not match expectations. Only an in-person consultation and medical evaluation can determine whether you are a candidate and which technique is appropriate.
If you have already had surgery elsewhere and develop fever, rapidly worsening pain, chest pain, shortness of breath, or one-sided leg swelling, seek urgent medical care.
Patient reviews Before & after gallery Schedule a consultation
Consultation planning checklist for Otoplasty (Ear Surgery)
A strong consultation is not only about candidacy. It should define your surgical priority, realistic contour or symmetry goals, and the tradeoffs between scar placement, downtime, anesthesia exposure, and long-term maintenance.
Bring your medical history, recovery constraints, and timeline targets so your plan can be tailored to daily life demands. If multiple procedures are possible, ask which option best protects safety while still matching your aesthetic priorities.
- Ask what result is realistic for your anatomy, not just idealized reference photos.
- Confirm how pain control, mobility limits, and follow-up schedule will be handled.
- Review what would require revision, and how staged planning changes recovery burden.
Common Ear Concerns Addressed
Prominent Ears
- Protruding Ears: Ears that stick out too far from the head
- Missing Antihelix: Lack of natural ear fold (antihelix)
- Large Cartilage: Overly large ear cartilage
- Ear Asymmetry: Asymmetry between left and right ears
Other Concerns
- Earlobe Issues: Misshapen or elongated ear lobes
- Size Concerns: Ears that are too large or too small
- Trauma Repair: Ears damaged by injury or trauma
- Birth Defects: Congenital ear deformities
Benefits of Otoplasty (Ear Surgery)
Improved Confidence
Feel more confident with ears that are properly proportioned and positioned
Natural Results
Achieve natural-looking ear shape and position that complements your facial features
Long-lasting
Results are permanent and maintain their appearance throughout your lifetime
Recovery Process
1-2 Weeks
Initial healing, headband worn for support
2-4 Weeks
Return to light activities, sutures removed
6-8 Weeks
Full recovery, return to all activities
3+ Months
Final results visible, scars fade
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age can otoplasty be performed?
Otoplasty can be performed on children as young as 5-6 years old, once the ears have reached their full size. It's also commonly performed on adults of any age who are unhappy with their ear appearance.
Will otoplasty affect my hearing?
No, otoplasty does not affect hearing as it only involves reshaping the external ear structure. The procedure focuses on the outer ear cartilage and does not involve the inner ear or hearing mechanisms.
How long do otoplasty results last?
Otoplasty results are permanent. Once the ears have healed in their new position, they will maintain their improved appearance throughout your lifetime.
Ready to Reshape Your Ears?
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Georgina Nichols to discuss your otoplasty goals and learn more about this transformative procedure.