Otoplasty in Sarasota

Otoplasty is ear surgery designed to improve the shape of the ear. Although the ideal age for otoplasty is age 5 to 6 years old (when the ear is fully developed and just before a child enters school), otoplasty can be performed any time after the ear is fully developed. It is often sought out by adults who didn’t have the opportunity to be treated earlier in life.

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What Can Ear Surgery Accomplish?

Many children with noticeable ears often get teased, and many adults who have this condition feel self-conscious. Ear surgery can greatly help in these situations by correcting the appearance of a variety of specific ear conditions. Commonly corrected conditions with otoplasty include:

Overly large ears
Elongated earlobes
Overdevelopment of the conchal bowl cartilage (a “cup ear”)
A failed development of the anti-helical fold (a “lop ear”)
Ears that significantly protrude from the head

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Before & After Feature Otoplasty

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Meet Your Surgeons 75 Years of Combined Experience

J. David Holcomb, MD Face, Nose & Laser Surgery

J. David Holcomb, MD is a double board-certified Facial Plastic and Cosmetic Laser Surgeon (American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, American Board of Otolaryngology) who has practiced in Sarasota since 2000. His expertise includes advanced procedures such as rhinoplasty and laser resurfacing, and he has participated in groundbreaking clinical research trials (principal investigator in several helium plasma dermal resurfacing studies and BLESS II Letybo neurotoxin non-inferiority study).

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Joshua C. Kreithen, MD Breast & Body Surgery

Joshua C. Kreithen, MD is an Aesthetic Breast & Contouring Body Specialist who is board certified by the American Board of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Dr. Kreithen has practiced in Sarasota, Florida since 2004.

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Marc J. Salzman, MD Face, Breast & Body Surgery

Marc J. Salzman, MD is a board-certified, fellowship-trained plastic surgeon with over 30 years of experience in face and body procedures. A recognized educator and innovator, he's known for advancing techniques and contributing to FDA studies on breast implants.

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Otoplasty surgical details

While otoplasty is typically performed with general anesthesia for children, IV sedation is generally sufficient for adults. For adults, the outpatient procedure may be performed in our AAAASF-certified outpatient surgical facility.

For children requiring general anesthesia, ear surgery is performed at Sarasota Memorial Hospital. Although the procedure typically takes approximately two hours, the precise details of you or your child’s specific otoplasty will depend on the kind of operation that is being performed.

During your consultation with us, we will walk you through the entire process of the procedure, recovery, home care, and follow-up visits so that you’re fully educated on every detail of the otoplasty. After your consultation, you will receive a quote and can schedule the surgery should you so choose to.

I have always been uncomfortable with my ears. I have never wanted to wear my hair up. We found Dr. Holcomb and immediately felt so comfortable with him. He and his staff made the procedure so easy and it was not stressful. I am so happy with my results. I feel more confident and am so thankful for Dr. Holcomb.

Otoplasty Patient

Surgical otoplasty recovery

Initial recovery from surgical otoplasty will take between 1 and 2 weeks. Following the procedure, patients may experience mild bruising and redness, as well as swelling and numbness of the ear(s). These will gradually resolve over the first few weeks after surgery. For young children, a protective head band is recommended while sleeping for the first three weeks and continuously during this time.

Any situation where there is potential for a blow to the ear (e.g. basketball, wrestling) should be avoided for six weeks following surgery. Young children should also understand that they cannot touch their ears during recovery. Final results are apparent in about three weeks, and results are permanent.

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How Much Does Otoplasty Cost?

Each plan is customized to individual situations and includes facility fees, IV sedation, medication, and post-operative appointments. Schedule an appointment with our doctors to discuss the details of your surgery, and they will provide a customized plan and quote for you.

Otoplasty in Sarasota and Tampa from Holcomb - Kreithen Plastic Surgery

Dr. Holcomb is a respected otoplasty surgeon with over 15 years of experience. Dr. Salzman is a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 30 years of experience, and brings a wealth of expertise. If you’re interested in ear surgery in Sarasota & Tampa for you or your child, please schedule a consultation with us. We will happily address any questions or concerns and walk you through the procedure. To learn more about otoplasty, contact us today. If you are in Tampa, FL, consultations with Dr. Holcomb or Dr. Salzman will occur at their Tampa office. However, the otoplasty procedure itself will be conducted at our Sarasota office.

Ear SurgeryFrequently Asked Questions

Will otoplasty affect my hearing?

No, otoplasty is an external procedure that alters the ear's shape and position without impacting the inner structures responsible for hearing.

Will there be visible scars after otoplasty?

Incisions are typically behind the ear or within its natural folds, resulting in minimal visible scarring. Over time, any scars usually fade and become barely noticeable.

Can otoplasty correct stretched or torn earlobes?

Yes, otoplasty can repair stretched or torn earlobes, often resulting from heavy earrings or trauma, by reconstructing the earlobe to a more natural appearance.