Ear Surgery in Largo, FL

Ears that stick outward and protrude, are misshapen and uneven, or look too large can have a negative impact on your self-confidence, especially as a child. Ear reshaping surgery (also known as otoplasty) is a cosmetic treatment that helps to redefine the size and shape of the ears to create a pleasing look. Roderick M. Urbaniak, M.D. is a board-certified plastic surgeon in Largo and Clearwater, FL who has helped countless adults and children overcome their fear of showing off their ears by having this surgery. Regardless of the deformity, ear surgery at Urbaniak Plastic Surgery allows an individual to show their face from any angle with self-assurance. If you or your child are concerned about the appearance of their ears, contact us to schedule a consultation with Dr. Roderick Urbaniak to get more information about cosmetic ear surgery.

If the shape or size of your ears is interfering with your confidence or quality of life, ear surgery at Urbaniak Plastic Surgery can provide a variety of benefits. Some advantages you may experience include:

• Repairs congenital ear deformities
• Helps you obtain natural-looking ears
• Reduces the appearance of large ears
• Safe and effective treatment
• Addresses a variety of issues
• Helps ears sit more flush against the head
• Boosts self-confidence
• Suitable for patients as young as 5 – 7 years old

Ear surgery can be done for patients of all ages. In fact, this treatment is extremely common among young children, who can receive the surgery as early as elementary school. By age six, this operation is safe to be performed on a child because their ears have matured enough around this age. If you are frustrated with the appearance of your ears because they stick out or are too large, otoplasty may be the ideal surgery to achieve a natural-looking profile and appearance. If you suffer from a damaged earlobe, you could also a candidate for otoplasty at our practice.

Cosmetic ear surgery is completed using a form of anesthesia. In most cases, the incision is made near the back of the ear or inside the inner ear folds. During surgery, cartilage may be removed or added to create a more natural appearance. It is usual for both ears to be altered during otoplasty to ensure they look natural and appear balanced. Once the ears have been surgically corrected, the incisions are closed with sutures and bandaged so they can remain safeguarded for healing.

Once treatment has finished and it is safe to leave the outpatient surgery center, you will rest and recover at home. Dr. Roderick Urbaniak or a member of his team will provide patients with recovery instructions. It's important to not touch, pick at, or scratch your ears immediately after surgery. Furthermore, you or your child should avoid laying on the ears and instead sleep in an upright position for the first several days. Dr. Urbaniak will ask to see his ear surgery patients back within the first week — during this time, he will remove the bandages and examine your or your child's ears. Natural-looking ears are noticeable almost immediately, and the results will continue to look better as the ears heal.

How much does ear surgery cost?
Ear surgery costs will depend on what is being performed (ear shaping, pinning, earlobe repair, or a combination). Once Dr. Roderick Urbaniak has listened to your concerns and goals, he can create your surgical plan and estimate your costs. Our office, Urbaniak Plastic Surgery, accepts many forms of payment, and we can help you find low-interest financing.

Will the results of ear surgery last?
Usually, the ears mature faster than other parts of the face and body, which is why an otoplasty can be carried out on younger patients with long-lasting results. Dr. Urbaniak will evaluate the ears and then discuss realistic expectations, as well as how long the results ought to last. Even as the face and body can change due to age and gravity, the affect on the ears will probably be minimal. If there are dramatic changes to the ears due to an injury, a second otoplasty can often be performed.

How old should my child be to consider otoplasty?
Normally, children about 5 – 6 years of age are ideal candidates for otoplasty. While the ear is usually fully developed, the cartilage and tissue will still be soft, making it easy to shape. This age is also good since it's often before they start school or early on in their education. This way, they can avoid teasing from other kids. Although many otoplasty patients are children, Dr. Urbaniak also performs ear surgery for adults.

Do I need to have both ears done or just one?
Most difficulties, including ears that are too big or stick out, occur in both ears, so both will need to be addressed. During the surgery, Dr. Roderick Urbaniak will shape both ears so they are as equal as possible. However, if only one ear needs to be changed, the size and shape will be altered to match the other ear. After developing your treatment plan, he will let you know whether or not both ears will be addressed.

What about fixing stretched or torn earlobes?
The popularity of large earrings and ear gauges have made earlobe repair a popular surgery at Urbaniak Plastic Surgery. If you are interested in having earlobe reconstruction, schedule a consultation with Dr. Urbaniak. He will evaluate the level of damage and discuss what can be done to restore your earlobes.

Although the ears are small, an abnormal shape, position, or size can make a huge difference in your appearance. Ear surgery (otoplasty) can help your child avoid teasing at school or help you if you feel uncomfortable about your ears. Contact Urbaniak Plastic Surgery in Largo or Clearwater, FL to schedule your appointment with plastic surgeon Dr. Roderick Urbaniak and learn more about cosmetic ear surgery. We look forward to helping you achieve a look you can be proud of and the confidence to flaunt.