Some patients are born with birth defects or overly large ears that result in ears sticking out far from the side of the head, also known as “shell ear,” while others may have experienced an ear injury causing “cauliflower ear” or the use of heavy earrings that cause stretched earlobes. Prominent ears are often caused by extra cartilage, which can be addressed during surgery to reduce the protruding appearance. Ear correction surgery or ear reconstruction can improve ear shape and achieve facial symmetry and symmetry between the two ears. The procedure improves the overall symmetry and contour of the ears, improving both appearance and self-esteem.
A good candidate for this procedure is someone who is self-conscious about the appearance of their ears. Prominent or large ears can, unfortunately, affect self-esteem and social interactions. Those who have otoplasty performed may experience less social trauma and bullying related to their ear appearance. Teenagers and adults can also be candidates for otoplasty. Patients should choose surgery for personal reasons rather than outside pressure. Patients who undergo otoplasty often report feeling more confident in their personal and professional relationships after the procedure.
Before otoplasty surgery, Dr. Janiga will review the patient’s medical history, examine their ear structure, and discuss their desired results to create a personalized surgical plan. Patients must be in good overall health and non-smokers, or committed to stopping smoking for several weeks before and after surgery. For children, otoplasty is recommended after age 10 or so, when the ear cartilage is fully developed, and the child is old enough to actively participate in the decision for surgery.
Dr. Timothy Janiga most commonly performs otoplasty surgery using local anesthesia in our Reno office as an outpatient procedure, so patients go home the same day, although general anesthesia may be considered for younger children. In most cases, an incision is made behind your ears in the outer upper ear cartilage to preserve the skin surface, allowing for ear reshaping, folding, or having underlying cartilage removed to reposition misshapen ears and achieve the desired position. The surgical site is then sutured shut with permanent stitches carefully placed in the cartilage to help hold the new ear shape. Dr. Janiga uses precision and advanced surgical techniques to give the ears a more natural shape. In some cases, an incisionless approach uses a needle to reshape ear cartilage. Otoplasty performed on one or both ears usually takes one to three hours and will be tender for a few days after.
Dr. Timothy Janiga is a board-certified plastic surgeon with over two decades of experience and countless patient success stories. His calm, expert, and meticulous approach has transformed the lives of both cosmetic and reconstruction patients, helping them feel good in their bodies. Dr. Janiga is an expert in all aspects of plastic surgery and specializes in cosmetic facial surgery, body contouring, and breast surgery.
After otoplasty, soft dressings and a flexible headband will be placed over the ears to hold them in the new position. Mild swelling, bruising, and discomfort are expected for about a week after cosmetic ear surgery. Contact sports and other strenuous activities must be avoided for several weeks. Dr. Janiga will provide a clear timeline about when patients can safely resume physical exercise and return to work. Most patients can work within a few days after their cosmetic procedure, but children will need to refrain from most sports for a few weeks after surgery.
Initial results should be noticeable almost immediately, but it will take two to three weeks to fully heal as swelling reduces. As the ears heal, the final shape becomes fully developed, revealing the complete outcome of the otoplasty procedure. You will notice that your ears have less projection, appearing smaller in shape and size. The new ear shape will blend seamlessly with the surrounding facial features.
JanigaMDs specializes in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, providing expert care for otoplasty and other facial procedures. Dr. Timothy Janiga, a board-certified plastic surgeon, completed his residency at the University of Michigan, a top plastic surgery program, and is a selected member of several prestigious organizations, including the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American Institute of Plastic Surgeons, and Fellow of the American College of Surgeons.
Dr. Janiga’s skills have been celebrated with numerous accolades that speak directly to his surgical quality. He has been repeatedly honored as a “Top Doctor in Nevada,” recognized among the 10 Best Plastic Surgeons in Nevada for client satisfaction by the American Institute of Plastic Surgeons, and received the America’s Most Honored Professionals Top 5% Award. Dr. Janiga’s dedication to patient comfort and satisfaction is further highlighted by awards like 10 Best Patient Satisfaction and Top Plastic Surgeon Reviews.
JanigaMDs stands out as the only plastic surgery center in Northern Nevada to combine the expertise of a board-certified plastic surgeon and a board-certified dermatologist under one roof, enabling comprehensive, customized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs. This dual-specialty structure ensures continuity of care from consultation through recovery and beyond, including follow up care that may add to otoplasty costs, ensuring beautiful and long-lasting results with ongoing skincare treatments. JanigaMDs’ expertise, recognition, and an integrative, patient-focused approach make us a trusted choice for your otoplasty surgery.
We evaluate patients who desire otoplasty in our Reno office. If ear concerns are present early, prompt evaluation can help families understand treatment timing and whether to avoid surgery. Key risks of otoplasty include infection, bleeding, asymmetry, and scarring. Rare complications can include nerve damage or a hematoma, with blood collecting under the skin. Patients considering cosmetic surgery should discuss these risks during consultation. Contact our office if you develop severe pain or signs of infection after surgery. For more information or to set up a consultation with Dr. Timothy Janiga to discuss ear pinning in our Reno office, please send us an email or call 775-364-0224.
JanigaMDs is the only practice in Reno where patients can consult with both a board-certified dermatologist and a board-certified plastic surgeon in one visit.
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Dr. Timothy Janiga is a board-certified plastic surgeon with over two decades experience serving the Northern Nevada community. He has been awarded multiple "Top Doctor in Nevada" and patient satisfaction awards. He is a member of several organizations, including American Institute of Plastic Surgeons (AIOPS), American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), and American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), as well associated with establishments such as the Nevada State and Washoe County Medical Societies.
Founded in 2010, the team at JanigaMDs has been proven to provide the utmost care for all patients. With an almost 5 star rating over almost 700 reviews, JanigaMDs is the premier aesthetic practice in Northern Nevada.
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