Otoplasty in Tampa, FL

Enhance ear symmetry and restore confidence with personalized ear surgery

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*Real Patient

Subtle Refinement. Lifelong Confidence.

At Holcomb–Kreithen Plastic Surgery & Medspa in Tampa, otoplasty—commonly referred to as ear pinning surgery—is performed to correct ears that protrude or are misshapen. Whether you're an adult who has always felt self-conscious about your ears, or a parent seeking corrective surgery for your child, our board-certified surgeons provide compassionate care and exceptional results.

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What Is Otoplasty?

Otoplasty is a cosmetic procedure designed to reshape the ears, improve facial symmetry, and reduce the appearance of ears that stick out. This surgery can correct a range of ear concerns by sculpting, repositioning, or resizing the ears.

Common issues addressed by otoplasty include:

Ears that protrude from the head
Overdeveloped cartilage (cup ear)
Underdeveloped cartilage (lop ear)
Enlarged or elongated earlobes
Misshapen or asymmetric ears

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Before & After Feature Otoplasty

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Why Consider Ear Surgery?

Prominent or misshapen ears can cause emotional distress at any age—particularly for children facing teasing or bullying. For adults, ear shape and positioning can impact self-image, hairstyle choices, and overall confidence. Otoplasty in Tampa offers patients:

A more balanced and natural ear appearance
Improved self-confidence in professional and social settings
Permanent results with discreet scarring

Ideal Candidates for Otoplasty

You or your child may be a candidate for otoplasty if:

The ears protrude noticeably or lack symmetry
You are in generally good health with no chronic ear conditions
You have realistic expectations for aesthetic improvement
Children are at least 5 years old (when ears are fully developed)

During your consultation at our Tampa office, Dr. Holcomb or Dr. Salzman will evaluate ear shape, cartilage development, and your overall health before recommending surgery.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Otoplasty is performed as an outpatient procedure. Adults typically undergo surgery with IV sedation, while younger children may require general anesthesia. In most cases, incisions are made behind the ear or within its natural folds to minimize visibility.

The ear cartilage is then reshaped and repositioned closer to the head using permanent sutures, creating a natural-looking contour. If necessary, excess cartilage or skin may be removed.

Surgical time : Approximately 2 hours
Location : Our AAAASF-accredited surgical facility
Anesthesia: IV sedation for adults; general anesthesia for children

Recovery After Otoplasty

Recovery following otoplasty is generally smooth, with minimal discomfort. You can expect:

Swelling and mild bruising for the first 1–2 weeks
Temporary numbness or tingling around the ears
Return to work or school in 5–7 days for most patients
Protective headband use during sleep for 2–3 weeks (especially for children)
Avoidance of contact sports or physical trauma to the ears for 6 weeks

Final results are typically visible after three weeks, once swelling has subsided. The surgical results are permanent and highly satisfying for most patients.

Otoplasty for Children and Teens

The best age for otoplasty is between 5 and 7 years old—just before school begins and after the ears are fully developed. Correcting prominent ears early in life can help children avoid teasing and boost self-confidence. Our team ensures the utmost care and comfort for young patients undergoing this procedure.

Why Choose Holcomb–Kreithen for Ear Surgery in Tampa?

With over five decades of combined surgical experience, Dr. David Holcomb and Dr. Marc Salzman are highly sought-after facial plastic surgeons in the Tampa area. Their precision, artistic approach, and commitment to patient safety ensure each otoplasty delivers natural-looking, balanced results. Patients in Tampa benefit from:

Convenient in-town consultations
Customized treatment plans for children, teens, and adults
Proven expertise in facial and ear anatomy
A welcoming, compassionate environment for patients of all ages

Schedule an Otoplasty Consultation in Tampa

If you’re ready to achieve greater balance and confidence through ear surgery, contact Holcomb–Kreithen Plastic Surgery & Medspa to schedule your consultation in Tampa. Whether for you or your child, we’re here to guide you through every step of the process with care and expertise.