Otoplasty
Conveniently located to serve the areas of Chesterfield Valley, O'Fallon and Chesterfield, MO
Otoplasty is a surgery that reshapes or repositions the ears to a more symmetrical or harmonious facial silhouette. By remodeling the cartilage, the procedure can address trauma-related injuries, structural malformations, or ears that protrude excessively. The surgery aims to improve the aesthetics of the ears and facial balance.
Dr. Robert T. Cristel is a double board-certified surgeon specializing in plastic, reconstructive, and otolaryngology surgery. He and the experienced medical team at Synergi Facial Surgery provide comprehensive aesthetic and corrective care to patients throughout the St. Louis area.
To learn more about otoplasty and schedule a consultation with Dr. Cristel, contact our Chesterfield, O’Fallon, and Chesterfield Valley offices by phone at (314) 523-5738 or submit our online contact form.
Contents
Before and After Photos
About Otoplasty
Otoplasty, often semi-misnomered as ear pinning, is a specialized surgery that corrects prominent, misshapen, or asymmetrical ears. (1) While many people consider the ears a secondary facial feature, their size, shape, and position play a substantial role in proper facial balance. When ears noticeably stick out from the head or exhibit structural abnormalities, they can pull focus and become a source of self-consciousness, particularly during childhood and adolescence.
At Synergi Facial Surgery, Dr. Cristel views otoplasty as a deeply restorative procedure. By sculpting, folding, or removing excess cartilage on the outer ear, Dr. Cristel can reposition the ear closer to the head, creating a profile that feels natural and balanced. Unlike other, simpler cosmetic approaches, otoplasty requires a profound understanding of facial anatomy and structural mechanics to ensure the final result is aesthetically pleasing and long-lasting.
Benefits
The primary benefit of otoplasty is the restoration of confidence. For many patients, the procedure is transformative, allowing them to feel comfortable wearing different hairstyles or engaging in social and professional settings where they previously felt self-conscious. Especially for children, otoplasty can relieve the negative psychological side effects of teasing or bullying. Beyond the psychological impact, the benefits include:
- Enhanced Facial Harmony: By reducing the prominence of the ears, otoplasty brings better balance to the overall facial profile.
- Permanent Correction: Because the procedure fundamentally reshapes the cartilage, the results are enduring.
- Minimal Scarring: Dr. Cristel uses precise incisions hidden within the natural creases behind the ear to ensure that any scarring is effectively concealed.
Candidates
Otoplasty is suitable for both healthy children and adults. For pediatric patients, the procedure is generally recommended once the ears have reached approximately 90% of their adult size, which typically occurs around the ages of five or six. (2) This timing is ideal because it addresses the issue before the child starts grade school, minimizing potential social challenges.
For adult patients, there is no upper age limit. Whether you are correcting a congenital issue, a trauma-related injury, or simply seeking a refined appearance, you may be a candidate for otoplasty. Dr. Cristel assesses candidates based on their general health, the elasticity of their ear cartilage, and their commitment to following pre- and post-operative guidelines.
Personal Consultation
Dr. Cristel believes that the most successful outcomes come from clear, open communication. During your visit, he will perform a thorough examination of your ear structure, discussing the specific angles, folds, and proportions that are causing concern. You will also discuss your aesthetic goals and ask any questions you may have. Dr. Cristel will explain the nuances of your anatomy and provide a realistic expectation for the outcome of the surgery. After discussing surgical technique in detail, Dr. Cristel will create your personalized treatment plan to proceed with your otoplasty.
To schedule your personal consultation with Dr. Cristel, call (314) 523-5738 or contact Synergi Facial Surgery online.
Preparation
Focused preparation is vital to ensure a safe procedure and smooth recovery. Dr. Cristel will provide you with detailed instructions before your surgery day, which may direct you to:
- Stop smoking several weeks in advance, if applicable
- Temporarily suspend use of anti-inflammatory medications and supplements
- Avoid alcohol in the days leading up to and following surgery
- Arrange personal transportation and care for the procedure day
Procedure
Dr. Cristel will perform your otoplasty as an outpatient procedure at Synergi Facial Surgery’s accredited medical facility. You will receive either general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation to ensure your comfort. Dr. Cristel begins by making a discreet incision in the natural crease behind the ear. Through this incision, he gains access to the underlying cartilage. Using specialized instruments and techniques, he will then reshape the cartilage. This may involve creating new folds, reducing excess bulk, or using permanent, non-absorbable sutures to anchor the ear in a more natural position against the head.
Once he achieves the desired shape, he will close the incisions with fine, dissolvable stitches. The procedure typically lasts between one and two hours, depending on the extent of the correction.
Recovery
Immediately following surgery, Dr. Cristel will wrap your head in a soft, protective bandage to minimize swelling and protect the incisions while supporting the ears’ new position. During the first few days post-surgery, you may experience some mild discomfort, bruising, or swelling. This is completely normal and is manageable with prescribed medications. You will transition from the bandages to a protective headband, which you will need to wear around the clock. After about a week, you can shift to wearing it primarily at night to protect your ears while you sleep.
Most patients can return to work and light activities within about a week. However, you must avoid strenuous activity, contact sports, or any movement that risks trauma to the ears for at least six weeks. Dr. Cristel will monitor your healing progress through scheduled follow-up appointments.
Results
The results of otoplasty are effectively permanent. As the initial swelling and bruising resolve over the first few weeks, the natural contours of your refined ear shape will become apparent. Dr. Cristel’s surgical approach focuses on achieving a subtle, natural balance that complements your features. Because the scars hide in the natural crease behind the ear, any signs of the procedure are incredibly discreet, and most patients are thrilled with the improved confidence they gain.
Corresponding Procedures
Many patients seeking ear refinement may also consider corresponding procedures. While otoplasty is a distinct surgery, some patients choose to pair it with other facial aesthetic treatments to achieve a more cohesive, rejuvenated appearance. Dr. Cristel is an expert in facial surgery and can discuss whether combination procedures would benefit your specific goals during the personal consultation.
Cost of Otoplasty in St. Louis, MO
At Synergi Facial Surgery, we are committed to full transparency with our patients, so you can explore general pricing online, which excludes anesthesia type, surgery center, or potential corresponding procedure costs. Dr. Cristel will provide you with a comprehensive cost breakdown that reflects the details of your personal treatment plan during your consultation.
If you are ready to start exploring your options for ear refinement surgery with Dr. Cristel, call our St. Louis-area offices at (314) 523-5738 or submit our online contact form.
FAQ
Who is an ideal candidate for otoplasty?
Ideal candidates are individuals with prominent or asymmetrical ears or those seeking correction for congenital ear abnormalities. Dr. Cristel evaluates each patient during a consultation to determine their suitability based on their health and structural anatomy.
What is the recovery process like after otoplasty?
Recovery is generally swift. Patients may experience mild discomfort, bruising, or swelling, which usually subsides within a week. Dr. Cristel provides post-operative care instructions to optimize healing. Are there any risks or complications associated with otoplasty? Like any surgery, there are potential risks, such as infection or asymmetry. However, complications are rare under the care of an experienced surgeon like Dr. Cristel.
How long do the results of otoplasty last?
Otoplasty involves reshaping the structural cartilage of the ear. Once this tissue heals in its new, corrected position, the results are typically permanent, barring the effects of a new injury or the natural changes that occur with age.
Will otoplasty leave visible scarring?
Dr. Cristel is meticulous about incision placement. By making incisions in the natural crease behind the ear, the resulting scars are hidden from view and generally fade to be virtually undetectable over time.
Can children undergo otoplasty?
Yes, Dr. Cristel can perform the procedure on healthy children as young as 5 or 6 years old. Early intervention can potentially save patients years of self-consciousness about the appearance of their ears.
Why choose Dr. Cristel to perform my otoplasty?
With his expertise in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, Dr. Cristel prioritizes patient safety and satisfaction. His commitment to achieving natural-looking results ensures a positive and transformative experience.
References
- Naumann A. Otoplasty – techniques, characteristics and risks. GMS Current Topics in Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery. 2008;6:Doc04. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3199845/
- Cooper-Hobson G, Jaffe W. The benefits of otoplasty for children: further evidence to satisfy the modern NHS. Journal of plastic, reconstructive & aesthetic surgery: JPRAS. 2009;62(2):190-194. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bjps.2007.09.020
