Expert Ear Reshaping in Manhattan

Otoplasty is most commonly performed to set prominent ears back closer to the head or to reduce the size of large ears. Additionally, otoplasty can reshape the external ear, correcting congenital conditions, such as “shell ear,” “lop ear,” and “cupped ear.” While some ear surgery is performed to repair injuries to the auricle caused by past trauma, ear surgery in NYC can also address issues involving the ear lobes, such as large ear lobes, wrinkled ear lobes, or lobes with a torn piercing site or stretched appearance. If you are unsure whether or not your ear issues can be reformed by ear surgery, we are happy to answer your questions during a consultation with Dr. Klausner. Otoplasty is a specialty procedure of Dr. Klausner’s and is popular among our Manhattan patients.

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Otoplasty Benefits: Safe and Natural Results

There are many benefits of ear surgery in NYC:

  • Safe and effective—risk is minimal with a quick two-week recovery time
  • Results are natural-looking and permanent
  • Corrects large, prominent ears
  • Can repair damage to ears due to injury or trauma
  • Improves overall facial aesthetics
  • Increases self-confidence and boosts self-image
  • Can be done for anyone above the age of four

Lee Ann M. Klausner, MD, FACS Otoplasty

In this video, Dr. Lee Ann M. Klausner explains what ear surgery in NYC—also known as otoplasty—involves and shares her expert approach to achieving natural-looking results. As a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Klausner describes how she customizes each procedure to create subtle, balanced changes that enhance the overall harmony of the face. If you're considering otoplasty in New York City, this video offers a clear introduction to what you can expect.

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Ear Surgery Candidacy: Do You Qualify for Otoplasty?

Children and adults may be candidates for ear surgery in Manhattan, but a health evaluation is necessary before Dr. Klausner can recommend the best surgical approach. Ideal candidates have no medical conditions that would impair healing and understand that this procedure aims to improve their appearance, not achieve perfection. For your preoperative evaluation, please inform our staff about any previous surgeries, medications, smoking habits, and allergies.

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Why choose Dr. Ann M. Klausner?

Dr. Lee Ann M. Klausner is a double board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon, nationally recognized for her refined technique and natural aesthetic results. A specialist in otoplasty in NYC, Dr. Klausner brings a thoughtful, individualized approach to each procedure, helping patients of all ages achieve balance and confidence through ear surgery. Her background includes rigorous training at NYU School of Medicine and a prestigious fellowship in facial plastic surgery. Known for her precision and artistic eye, Dr. Klausner carefully customizes every otoplasty to suit the patient’s anatomy and cosmetic goals. As the founder of the Klausner Institute, she is committed to innovation, education, and patient-centered care. Whether you are considering ear pinning in New York City for yourself or your child, Dr. Klausner’s experience and compassionate approach make her one of the most trusted names in facial plastic surgery.

More About Prominent Ears, or Auricularis Prominauris

There are distinct structural features that cause the protrusion of the ear. Lack of development or partial development of the fold of the external ear rim—the antihelical fold—or an external ear bowl—the conchal bowl—that is too deep will typically be seen. In most cases, it is a combination of these features that may need to be adjusted during the surgery. Otoplasty is the medical name of the surgery done to minimize the appearance of prominent ears. In New York City, Dr. Klausner is recognized as one of the leading female facial plastic surgeons handling the otoplasty procedure at her Park Avenue office.

Otoplasty Consultation: Addressing Your Ear Surgery Questions

Whatever your reason for considering otoplasty or ear surgery, you can trust New York City facial plastic surgeon Lee Ann M. Klausner, M.D. to make your experience safe and successful. If you are ready to take the next step, please schedule a consultation for ear surgery online or over the phone. During your consultation, Dr. Klausner will ask you to describe any concerns about the size, shape, or position of your ears.

After a complete examination of the area, Dr. Klausner will provide you with feedback detailing your best options for reshaping your ears. Before any final decisions are made, you will be able to look through our photo gallery of other ear surgery patients. The photo gallery displays detailed before-and-after photos, as well as case descriptions of each patient.

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Otoplasty for Children

Otoplasty is often performed on children between the ages of 4 and 14. The procedure cannot be performed earlier than four years of age because the external ear does not fully develop and reach its standard adult size until this age. However, It is common for children to have ear surgery in childhood to escape feelings of self-consciousness and ridicule that might come from other less sensitive peers as they grow older. For parents seeking otoplasty to correct their child’s prominent ears, the decision to undergo ear surgery should be based on the child’s motivation and not solely on the parents. Parents should pay attention to their child’s feelings and not insist on ear surgery to correct protruding ears until their child requests the change. Children who feel bothered by their protruding ears and ask for surgery are far more likely to be cooperative during the process and happy with the result.

Otoplasty for Adults

Frequently, an individual with one or two prominent ears who did not consider otoplasty during childhood will seek otoplasty as an adult. There is no additional risk of ear surgery for prominent ears in adults. Commonly, one ear can be more prominent than the other. As individuals, our external ears and other facial features are not identical. It is essential to realize that even after otoplasty, some ear differences will still exist.

Otoplasty Results and Recovery: Enjoying Your New Ears

Once your ear surgery in New York City or Manhattan has finished and you are released to leave the hospital, you will recover at home. Dr. Klausner or a member of her team will provide instructions for recovery. It's important not to touch, pick at, or scratch the ears. Also, neither you nor your child should lay on the ears. Instead, we ask that you sleep propped up for the first few days. Dr. Klausner recommends seeing her ear surgery patients back within a week — during this time, Dr. Klausner or a team member will take off the bandages and assess you or your child's surgical results. The outcomes are visible almost immediately, and the results will continue to look better as the ears heal.

What is otoplasty, and how can it help me?

Otoplasty, or ear surgery, is a cosmetic procedure designed to reshape or reposition the ears. It can correct issues such as prominent ears, asymmetry, or deformities caused by injury, enhancing facial harmony and boosting self-confidence.

At what age can someone undergo otoplasty?

Otoplasty is commonly performed on children aged five and older, once the ears have reached full size. However, adults of any age can also benefit from the procedure if they have concerns about the appearance of their ears.

What does the otoplasty procedure involve?

The surgery typically involves making an incision behind the ear to access and reshape the cartilage. The ear is then repositioned closer to the head, and the incision is closed with sutures. The procedure is usually performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on the patient's needs.

What is the recovery process like after ear surgery?

Patients may experience mild discomfort, swelling, and bruising following the procedure. A headband is often worn to support the ears during healing. Most individuals can return to normal activities within a week, with full recovery taking a few weeks.

Are the results of otoplasty permanent?

Yes, the results of otoplasty are generally permanent. Once the ears have healed, the new shape and position should remain stable, providing long-lasting improvements to the ear's appearance.

Will there be visible scars after ear surgery?

Incisions are typically made behind the ears, resulting in minimal visible scarring. Over time, any scars usually fade and become barely noticeable, especially when proper post-operative care is followed.

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Otoplasty in NYC Frequently Asked Questions

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