Ear Surgery
In Fort Worth, TX
Balance in the Details.
Ear Surgery at New Leaf
Ear shape and projection can affect how you feel about your appearance. Otoplasty planning focuses on the specific features you wish to change and the relationship of the ears to the face.
Otoplasty changes the shape, position, or proportion of the external ear. It may address prominent ears or selected shape concerns. It does not treat hearing loss, and planning considers ear development, anatomy, and the patient’s own goals.
Ear Surgery Before & Afters
Original photographs from New Leaf’s published gallery. Individual results vary.
Explore more resultsOverview / Ear Surgery
What Is Otoplasty?
Otoplasty is a facial plastic surgery procedure that reshapes or repositions the outer ear. It is most often performed to reduce the appearance of ears that project too far from the head, but it may also improve certain ear shape concerns or asymmetry.
During otoplasty, an incision is typically placed behind the ear where it is naturally hidden. Through that incision, cartilage can be reshaped, folded, or repositioned to help the ear sit closer to the head. Sutures may be used to hold the improved shape and position while healing takes place.
Because the incision is usually located behind the ear, scarring is often difficult to see once healing progresses. Otoplasty is part of the broader category of facial plastic surgery procedures and is customized based on the patient’s age, cartilage structure, ear projection, symmetry, and goals.
Dr. Candis Lovelace can evaluate ear position, shape, and symmetry to determine whether otoplasty is appropriate.
Candidates / Ear Surgery
Who Is a Good Candidate for Otoplasty?
Otoplasty may be a good option for children, teens, and adults who are bothered by prominent, protruding, or asymmetrical ears.
- Are in good overall health
- Have ears that project outward or appear out of proportion
- Have realistic expectations about improvement
- Understand that otoplasty changes appearance, not hearing
- Can follow recovery instructions
- Do not smoke or are willing to stop before surgery when applicable
Otoplasty is commonly performed in children around age five or older, once the ears have developed enough for surgery. It is also frequently performed for teens and adults. Although cartilage becomes firmer with age, meaningful improvement can still be achieved with the right surgical plan.
Your Questions Belong Here.
Explore an individual plan with Dr. Candis Lovelace.
Procedure / Ear Surgery
What Happens During Otoplasty?
Otoplasty is typically performed as an outpatient procedure. Depending on the patient’s age, comfort level, and surgical plan, anesthesia may involve local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia.
During the procedure, an incision is usually placed behind the ear where it is well hidden. Dr. Lovelace then reshapes, folds, or repositions the cartilage to improve projection, symmetry, and ear contour. Sutures are used to secure the improved shape and position.
The technique is customized to the patient. Some patients mainly need correction of projection, while others need better fold definition, improved symmetry, or refinement of the overall ear shape.
Recovery / Ear Surgery
Recovery After Otoplasty
Recovery after otoplasty is usually straightforward. Patients generally wear a protective head wrap immediately after surgery, followed by a soft headband for support while healing continues.
Most patients return to light activities, work, or school within about a week. Strenuous activity, contact sports, and pressure on the ears should be avoided for several weeks or until cleared by Dr. Lovelace.
- Mild to moderate discomfort
- Temporary swelling
- Bruising
- A feeling of tightness around the ears
- Head wrap or headband use
- Activity restrictions
Scars are typically placed behind the ears and usually become less noticeable over time. As swelling improves, the ears should blend more naturally with the rest of the face.
Dr. Lovelace will review head wrap use, headband timing, activity restrictions, and when you or your child can return to normal routines.
Planning / Ear Surgery
What Concerns Can Otoplasty Improve?
Otoplasty may help improve ears that look prominent, uneven, or out of proportion with the face. Many patients are not looking for a dramatic change. They simply want the ears to look less distracting and more naturally balanced.
- Ears that stick out from the head
- Prominent ears on one or both sides
- Ear asymmetry
- Poorly defined cartilage folds
- Ears that look too noticeable in photos
- Difficulty wearing short hairstyles or pulled-back hairstyles
- Self-consciousness related to ear appearance
The most natural-looking otoplasty results are usually subtle. The ears should sit in better proportion with the head and face without looking flattened, overcorrected, or artificial.
Before You Decide
Answers for your planning
Risks and Safety Considerations
As with any surgery, otoplasty has potential risks. These will be reviewed during consultation so patients understand what applies to their specific case.
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Scarring
- Hematoma
- Seroma
- Asymmetry
- Suture visibility or irritation
- Recurrence of ear prominence
- Delayed healing
- Numbness or hypersensitivity
- Need for revision surgery
- Anesthesia-related risks
Careful surgical planning and following post-operative instructions can help reduce risks and support better healing.
Cost of Otoplasty in Fort Worth
The cost of otoplasty varies depending on the complexity of the procedure, anesthesia fees, facility fees, and whether one or both ears are being treated.
A personalized quote is provided during consultation so you understand the full scope of the investment, including surgeon, anesthesia, and facility-related fees.
What Results Can You Expect?
Otoplasty can create a more balanced ear position and improve facial proportion. The goal is for the ears to look natural and less prominent, not overly corrected.
- Ears that sit closer to the head
- Improved symmetry between the ears
- More balanced facial proportions
- Less attention drawn to the ears
- More confidence wearing different hairstyles
- A natural-looking ear contour
Results are intended to be long-lasting once healing is complete. Some swelling or minor changes may continue to settle over time.
Does Otoplasty Affect Hearing?
No. Otoplasty changes the shape or position of the outer ear, but it does not affect the inner ear structures responsible for hearing. The procedure is cosmetic and focuses on ear appearance, projection, and symmetry.
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Plan Your Visit in Fort Worth
Meet the practice
Dr. Candis Lovelace, MD, FACS is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Her practice includes cosmetic surgery of the breast, body, and face, as well as reconstructive care.
New Leaf Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
4400 Heritage Trace Parkway, Suite 200
Fort Worth, TX 76244
817-380-1087
The office welcomes patients from Fort Worth and nearby communities, including Keller and Southlake. Contact the practice to plan your visit.
Prepare for your consultation
Bring your goals, relevant medical history, medication list, and questions about alternatives, risks, recovery, and costs. Ask which options are appropriate for you and what help or follow-up you may need.
Further reading
General patient education; an individual examination is needed for treatment advice. Content updated .