Ear Surgery (Otoplasty) in Irvine, CA
Ear surgery, or otoplasty, reshapes and repositions the ears so they sit in natural harmony with your facial features. Whether you have prominent ears, an injury that altered ear shape, or large earlobes you wish to refine, this straightforward procedure can make a dramatic difference in how you feel about your appearance. Patients of all ages choose otoplasty to enjoy hairstyles that reveal their ears with confidence and to eliminate worries about unwanted attention. The transformation is subtle to others, yet profoundly reassuring to you.
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Expert Surgeons
4.9 Google Rating
Serving Orange County Since 2012
Procedure Quick Facts:
- Duration of Procedure:1–2 hours
- Anesthesia:Local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia
- Recovery:Back to school or work in 5–7 days; strenuous activity in about 6 weeks
- Results Duration:Long-lasting, often permanent
Otoplasty is a customized surgical procedure that reshapes, resizes, or repositions the ears to create a balanced, natural look. For protruding ears, your surgeon makes a small incision behind the ear, removes or folds cartilage as needed, and secures the new shape with sutures hidden in the crease. Other ear concerns—such as large earlobes, shell-shaped ears, or ears altered by trauma—can also be addressed using refined techniques tailored to your anatomy.
Because the incision sits behind the ear, visible scarring is minimal. Most patients experience a relatively quick recovery and are thrilled by the immediate change in facial harmony. Although hearing is unaffected, the psychological impact can be life-changing, especially for children and adults who have felt self-conscious for years.
If you're considering ear surgery, South Coast Plastic Surgery is here to guide you through every step. Dr. Kyle Song and Dr. Paige Benyamein will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan that addresses your concerns and helps you achieve your aesthetic goals.
- Balanced Facial ProportionsBringing the ears closer to the head restores harmony between your ears, eyes, and nose, creating a more proportionate facial appearance.
- Boosted Confidence at Any AgeChildren avoid teasing at school, and adults feel free to wear short hairstyles or up-dos without worrying about unwanted attention.
- Ability to Wear Hairstyles and Accessories FreelyAfter otoplasty, patients enjoy pulling their hair back, wearing earrings, and choosing headwear without feeling the need to hide their ears.
- Correction of Trauma-Related Ear DeformitiesSurgical refinement can repair ears altered by injury or gauges, restoring a natural contour and symmetry.
- Long-Lasting, Natural-Looking ResultsOnce healed, cartilage typically maintains its new shape for life, offering a lasting solution with minimal maintenance.
- Improved Fit of Eyewear and HeadphonesProperly contoured ears allow glasses, sunglasses, and headphones to sit more comfortably and securely.
Watch our videos to see real patient results, learn from our experts, and discover what makes South Coast Plastic Surgery a trusted choice in Orange County.
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Positions protruding ears closer to the skull, creating natural facial symmetry.
Reduces oversized earlobes or ear height for a refined, proportional look.
Repairs stretched, torn, or gauge-altered earlobes to restore a natural contour.
Provides lifelong improvements that positively impact self-esteem and social confidence.
Different techniques allow us to address a variety of ear concerns. During your consultation, your surgeon will recommend the option best suited to your needs.
Traditional Otoplasty for Prominent Ears
This technique involves an incision hidden behind the ear to fold or remove excess cartilage, bringing the ear closer to the head. Ideal for patients with ears that stick out noticeably, it delivers balanced, symmetrical results with minimal visible scarring.
Earlobe Reduction or Repair
For patients with elongated, torn, or gauge-stretched earlobes, precise tissue removal and fine suturing reshape the lobe to a natural size and contour. The procedure is quick, performed under local anesthesia, and leaves barely visible scars.
Pediatric Otoplasty
Children as young as five or six can benefit from otoplasty before starting school. Techniques mirror adult surgery but are adapted to a child’s softer cartilage, helping prevent teasing and boosting early self-confidence.
See real results from our patients
Dr. Kyle Song and Dr. Paige Benyamein combine artistic vision with advanced surgical skills to create ears that look natural and balanced from every angle. Their meticulous approach and genuine care ensure your comfort and confidence throughout your otoplasty journey.
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Beauty Inside-Out
We treat beyond the visible, caring for your inner wellness as much as your outer beauty. Every aesthetic treatment is provided with warm and exceptional care to elevate your well-being and confidence.
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Unmatched Predictability
Visualize your potential results with cutting-edge Crisalix 3D imaging, ensuring clarity and confidence from the start of your cosmetic journey. Our transparent planning process covers every detail, from realistic expectations to comprehensive pricing.
Expert Healing
Your personalized care plan doesn't end when you leave the operating room. Adoreal's automated recovery prompts guide you through a personalized healing journey, including 24/7 access to your surgical team to address questions or concerns. Track your aesthetic recovery progress in real-time, receive important reminders, and experience peace of mind knowing that expert support is always available.
Protected Investment
We stand behind our work with comprehensive warranty coverage that protects your aesthetic outcomes long after your final follow-up. Your care includes up to 5 years of medical complication protection, a 2-year satisfaction guarantee for minor adjustments, and lifetime implant monitoring for eligible cases. Combined with ongoing access to your complete medical records and continued support from our team, you can trust that your journey to confidence is backed by expertise, technology, and a genuine commitment to your long-term well-being.
A Customized Approach to Breast Procedures in Irvine & Ladera Ranch
Your consultation is a private, personalized experience designed around your goals.
Our surgeon will also assess individual factors such as cartilage flexibility, ear symmetry, and skin quality, along with your personal preferences to determine the best approach for your goals.
- Your aesthetic goals and desired ear position
- Medical history and previous ear injuries
- Surgical techniques best suited to your anatomy
- Recovery expectations and timeline
- Potential risks and how we minimize them
- Cost estimates and financing options
Ideal candidates are in good health, bothered by the appearance of their ears, and ready to commit to a short recovery. A personalized consultation confirms whether otoplasty will meet your goals.
Healthy individuals without untreated chronic conditions
Non-smokers or willing to stop before and after surgery
Realistic expectations about improvements and scarring
Prominent, large, or misshapen ears causing self-consciousness
Stable weight and no recent significant weight fluctuations
No active ear infections or skin conditions
Ability to follow post-operative instructions for optimal healing
This personalized assessment ensures your consultation is tailored specifically to you, with no obligation. Your wellness journey, our commitment.
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Comprehensive Consultation & Assessment
Your journey begins with a private consultation with Dr. Song or Dr. Benyamein. This visit is focused on understanding what changes you'd like to see and whether ear surgery is the right solution for your concerns.
During your consultation, your surgeon will:
• Listen to your goals and review any past ear injuries
• Perform a detailed examination of ear shape, cartilage, and symmetry
• Explain recommended surgical techniques and incision placement
• Discuss anesthesia options and recovery timeline
• Review potential risks and answer all of your questions
Together, you'll create a surgical plan tailored to your anatomy and lifestyle, with safety and realistic outcomes as the priority.
The Ear Surgery Procedure
Ear surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia with light sedation, keeping you comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure.
During the procedure:
• An inconspicuous incision is made behind each ear
• Cartilage is reshaped, folded, or partially removed to achieve desired contour
• Internal sutures secure the new ear position
• Skin is closed with fine stitches hidden in the natural crease
A soft, protective head wrap is applied to maintain the new ear shape and minimize swelling.
Ear Surgery Recovery Timeline
Recovery experiences vary, but most patients follow a similar general timeline.
Immediately after surgery
You’ll rest in our recovery suite before heading home the same day wearing a comfortable head wrap.
First few days
• Mild discomfort managed with prescribed medication
• Keep head elevated and avoid pressure on ears
• Wear head wrap continuously as instructed
Weeks 1-2
• Head wrap removed; switch to nighttime protective band
• Return to desk work or school usually within one week
• Light walking encouraged to promote circulation
Weeks 3-4
•Gradual return to full daily activities
• Most swelling and bruising resolved
You'll receive personalized post-operative instructions and follow-up appointments to monitor healing and address any concerns.
Your Ear Surgery Results
Ear surgery results are visible right away, though your ears will continue to refine as swelling resolves and tissues settle.
Early results
Ears sit closer to the head immediately after surgery, though a head wrap conceals them at first.
Following weeks
As swelling subsides, ear contours appear more defined and natural.
Final results
By three months, ears have fully healed and final shape is established, with scars hidden behind the ear.
With proper care, ear surgery provides lifelong results that enhance facial harmony and personal confidence.
- Days 3 - 5
- Week 1 - 2
- Week 2 - 3
- Week 4 - 6
- Month 2 - 3
- Month 4 - 6
- Long time
Ear Surgery Results and Safety Considerations
Understanding how surgical technique, anatomy, and healing affect ear surgery results can help you set realistic expectations and feel confident in your decision.
Achieving Natural-Looking Results
Natural results stem from careful analysis of ear-to-head angle, cartilage thickness, and overall facial proportions. By reshaping rather than removing excessive cartilage, your surgeon preserves the ear’s gentle curves while creating a less prominent profile. Precision suturing and tension-free closure encourage smooth contours as the ear heals. Your input on desired ear position guides surgical planning, ensuring the outcome aligns with your personal aesthetic.
Where Are the Incisions?
Incisions are strategically placed behind the ear where the ear meets the scalp, keeping scars virtually invisible.
Posterior ear crease incision for cartilage reshaping
Incisions are carefully planned to follow natural contours and are closed with precision to support proper healing and minimize long-term visibility.
Is Scarring a Concern?
All surgery leaves a scar, but the posterior ear location hides it from view. Fine suturing techniques and diligent aftercare help scars fade quickly.
Scar Healing Timeline
As your body heals, scars will change gradually over time:
Weeks 1-2
Scars may appear red and slightly raised
Months 1-3
Scars typically soften and begin to flatten
Around 6 months
Noticeable fading often occurs
1-2 years
Scars may continue to lighten and become less noticeable
Following post-operative instructions and recommended scar care plays an important role in how scars mature.
Understanding Risks and Safety
Understanding Risks and Safety
Ear surgery is generally safe when performed by an experienced plastic surgeon in an accredited surgical facility. However, as with any surgery, there are potential risks to be aware of.
Potential risks may include:
• Bleeding or hematoma formation
• Infection at incision sites
• Asymmetry or need for revision
• Changes in skin sensation
• Prominent or thickened scarring
• Allergic reaction to anesthesia or sutures
Your surgeon will review these risks with you in detail during your consultation and explain how they are minimized through careful planning, surgical technique, and follow-up care.
Reducing Your Risk
Your safety is a top priority at South Coast Plastic Surgery. Steps taken to support a safe ear surgery experience include:
• Thorough pre-operative evaluation
• Precise surgical planning tailored to your anatomy
• Surgery performed in a fully accredited facility
• Detailed post-operative instructions and follow-up care
By choosing an experienced surgical team and following recovery guidelines closely, most patients heal well and are satisfied with their ear surgery results.
The cost of your procedure will vary based on a variety of factors. During your consultation, your doctor will discuss your desired outcomes in detail and provide a fully transparent breakdown of all associated costs. Our practice helps patients achieve their aesthetic goals with a variety of financing options.
Financing options available through:
Trusted by Our Community
4.8/5 stars for 334 reviews / 90% word-of-mouth referral rate / Over 15 years serving Orange County
Dr. Song performed my breast implant surgery nearly 10 yrs ago with the ideal breast implant. I've had no issues in this time. I live on the other side of the country now, but I would've loved to come back for removal, since I'm on an all natural journey. I hope to find someone who can take care of me, keep me safe, & assured during & after surgery as Dr. Song & his staff did.
N. Snoozzz
Thank you Dr. Song. I’m 10 days post opp and am so happy with my experience with my mommy makeover! I can’t tell you how comfortable Dr. Song and his staff made me feel throughout this whole process. Surgery is a bit of a scary decision and sometimes I agonized about for years but I can promise you are in the best care with this team. I highly highly recommend them and am already so happy with my results !
About the procedure
What concerns can ear surgery correct?
Ear surgery can address protruding ears, large or asymmetrical ears, stretched or torn earlobes, and ear deformities caused by trauma or gauges.
How long does otoplasty surgery take?
Most ear surgeries are completed in one to two hours, depending on the complexity and whether one or both ears are treated.
Where will my incisions be located?
Incisions are typically hidden behind the ear in the natural crease, keeping scars virtually invisible.
Will I need to wear a head wrap?
Yes. A soft head wrap is worn for four to five days after surgery to protect your new ear shape, followed by a nighttime band for two weeks.
Recovery & Results
When can I return to school or work?
Most patients feel comfortable returning to desk work or school in about five to seven days once the initial head wrap is removed.
How long do ear surgery results last?
Results are generally permanent because cartilage typically maintains its new shape once healed.
Is ear surgery safe for children?
Yes. Otoplasty is safely performed on children as young as five or six, when ear growth is nearly complete and cartilage is easier to shape.
What are the most common risks?
Common risks include bleeding, infection, asymmetry, changes in sensation, or the need for revision, though serious complications are uncommon.
Safety & Risks
Is ear surgery covered by insurance?
Cosmetic otoplasty is usually self-funded. Insurance may contribute if surgery is reconstructive or addresses a documented medical condition.
Do you offer financing?
Yes. We partner with CareCredit and Alphaeon Credit to provide flexible payment plans that fit your budget.
When can I resume exercise?
Light activity is encouraged early, but strenuous exercise and contact sports should wait about six weeks or until cleared by your surgeon.
How do I protect my results long-term?
Follow post-operative instructions, avoid trauma to the ears, wear protective gear during sports, and schedule recommended follow-up visits.
Cost & Insurance
Is ear surgery covered by insurance?
Cosmetic otoplasty is usually self-funded. Insurance may contribute if surgery is reconstructive or addresses a documented medical condition.
Do you offer financing?
Yes. We partner with CareCredit and Alphaeon Credit to provide flexible payment plans that fit your budget.
Lifestyle & Long-Term Care
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