Otoplasty In Denver, CO

With Dr. Thompson, you can effectively resolve prominent, protruding, or abnormally shaped ears.

Woman in patterned shawl looking over shoulder.

An Elegant Solution to Bothersome Ear Shape

Otoplasty is a facial plastic surgery that fixes ear placement and shape. It is a relatively minor procedure but can yield dramatic results to transform a patient’s quality of life and self-esteem. The surgery can be performed on adults and children alike. In children, the operation is usually performed by age five to avoid the possible negative impact of teasing.

Is Otoplasty Right for Me?

While this surgery is most commonly performed on children between the ages of 4 and 14, anyone with fully grown ears bothered by their appearance may be a candidate for otoplasty. It is best for patients who are in otherwise good health, have no active diseases or severe, pre-existing medical conditions, and have realistic expectations for the outcome of your otoplasty surgery in Denver. Generally, it is good to wait until the ears have reached their adult size, typically around 5 to 6 years of age.

Your Initial Consultation for Ear Surgery in Denver

Given the sensitivity around such a procedure-particularly if it is meant for a child-Dr. Thompson wants to engender an open and trusting environment. Your initial consultation in his Denver, CO office offers a chance to ask any questions and ensure you are on the same page with Dr. Thompson about your goals. Sensitivity and compassion will be the guiding principles from start to finish.

Your Procedure

The procedure can be performed under local or general anesthesia in the office. Younger children often require a general anesthetic to decrease anxiety and ensure cooperation. The most common technique utilizes an incision in a concealed location behind the ear.

This is where sutures will be placed to hold the ear cartilage in its new, permanent location to get the ears closer to the head. Otoplasty in Denver aims to reposition or reshape the ear into a more natural position.

Recovery and Results

The Otoplasty procedure is performed on an outpatient basis. Patients go home the same day and can resume near-normal activity. Due to the risk of injury or disrupting the sutures as the ear heals, patients are counseled to avoid exertional physical activity for the first two weeks after the surgery and contact sports for the first one to two months. There is usually very little pain or discomfort, but if there is any, it can be addressed with over-the-counter pain medications. A dressing will be placed immediately after surgery and removed during the patient’s follow-up visit.

Why Choose Us?

Dr. Thompson is board-certified by the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery and one of Denver's top plastic surgeons. He believes in connecting with patients, regardless of age, to ensure results that align with their needs.