Ear Surgery (Otoplasty) in Washington, DC

CONVENIENTLY LOCATED TO SERVE WASHINGTON, DC

woman gently touching her earFeeling self-conscious about ears that stick out or appear misshapen is more common than people think. Whether the concern begins in childhood or develops after an injury, cosmetic ear surgery can reshape and reposition the ears so they feel more in harmony with the rest of the face.

At DC Cosmetic Surgery Center, we offer ear surgery for adults and children in Washington, DC, with a personalized approach that restores confidence and balance.

What Is Ear Surgery?

Ear surgery, or otoplasty, addresses cosmetic and structural concerns related to the ears. Some patients seek this procedure to correct protruding ears. Others want to reshape ear cartilage after trauma or to fix congenital irregularities.

Ear Pinning Surgery

This procedure helps reposition ears that sit too far from the head. Ear pinning creates a more proportional and natural contour by securing the cartilage closer to the scalp.

Earlobe Repair

Stretched, torn, or damaged earlobes can be repaired with a simple surgical technique. The lobe is reshaped and sutured to restore a smooth and balanced appearance.

Reconstructive Ear Surgery

When injuries, birth defects, or other conditions affect ear shape, reconstructive ear surgery can rebuild the external ear using existing tissue or cartilage grafts, depending on the level of correction needed.

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Am I a Candidate for Otoplasty?

If you are bothered by how your ears look or have experienced damage due to trauma or piercing, you may be a good candidate for ear surgery in Washington, DC. Ideal candidates include healthy individuals with realistic expectations and a clear understanding of what the procedure can achieve.

Children as young as five or six may also qualify, provided their ears are fully developed and they are emotionally ready for surgery. During your consultation, we will evaluate your ear structure and outline the most effective approach for your goals.

What Happens During the Procedure

a female having ear consultationOtoplasty is typically performed on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the patient’s age and the extent of the procedure. A small incision is placed behind the ear to access the cartilage. The tissue is reshaped or repositioned to bring the ear closer to the head or correct irregular folds.

In earlobe repair, damaged skin is removed and carefully sutured. More advanced techniques may be needed for reconstructive procedures, such as grafting cartilage to rebuild missing parts of the ear.

What to Expect After Surgery

Most patients go home the same day. For the first few days, a protective dressing supports healing, followed by a lighter headband worn at night. Mild discomfort or swelling is common but manageable with medication.

Most patients return to work or school within a week. Full healing continues over the next several months as the ears adjust to their new shape. We provide detailed aftercare instructions and schedule follow-up visits to monitor your progress.

Benefits of Cosmetic Ear Surgery

Ear surgery helps create facial balance by correcting size, shape, or projection. It can significantly reduce self-consciousness, especially for children or teens who have experienced teasing. Adults often feel more comfortable in social and professional situations after surgery.

The incisions are hidden behind the ears, keeping scarring discreet. The results are permanent and do not require ongoing maintenance or adjustments.

Cost of Ear Surgery in Washington, DC

The cost of ear surgery depends on the complexity of the procedure and whether one or both ears are being treated. Otoplasty, earlobe repair, and reconstructive ear surgery vary in technique and time required.

During your consultation, we provide a detailed quote that includes surgical fees, anesthesia, and facility costs. Most cosmetic ear procedures are not covered by insurance, but we offer guidance on payment options to help you move forward with clarity.

Why Choose DC Cosmetic Surgery Center

At DC Cosmetic Surgery Center, ear reshaping procedures are performed under the direction of Dr. Michael Olding, a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 20 years of experience. He is the Chief of Plastic Surgery at The George Washington University School of Medicine and the Director of the Cosmetic Surgery Center.

Dr. Olding completed surgical training at Cornell Medical Center and McGill University. His work has been featured in outlets such as The New York Times, CNN, and Forbes. He has served on FDA advisory panels and is consistently listed among the top cosmetic surgeons in Washington, DC. Patients choose Dr. Olding for his technical skill, reputation for natural results, and commitment to delivering thoughtful, individualized care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Once their ears develop, children as young as five or six can have otoplasty. Adults can undergo surgery at any age if they are healthy and have specific goals.
Scars are placed behind the ears in natural folds and are usually not visible once healed. Over time, they fade and become less noticeable.
Mild discomfort is normal after surgery, but it is usually short-lived and easily managed with pain medication. Most patients feel well enough to resume daily activities within a few days.
Yes. Once healing is complete, the results are long-lasting. The ears hold their new shape without the need for further procedures.
Yes. If only one ear is affected by shape or projection issues, we can perform surgery on one side to create symmetry with the other.

Schedule Your Ear Surgery Consultation in Washington, DC

If you are ready to feel more comfortable with your appearance, schedule your consultation for otoplasty in Washington, DC. We will listen to your concerns, assess your goals, and recommend a plan that fits your needs.