Many people are unhappy with the size and/or shape of their ears. Otoplasty is a surgical procedure designed to correct ear size and shape, but how much does will it cost?
The cost of otoplasty depends on various factors, including the type of facility in which surgeons carry out the operation, the price of prescription medications, and fees related to anesthesia. Prices can also vary from city to city and state to state depending on economic factors, such as competition between local clinics and prevailing wage rates.
Most insurers consider otoplasties cosmetic procedures, so, typically, you must pay out of pocket. Fortunately, payment plans allow you to spread fees out over several months.
About Otoplasty
Otoplasty is a procedure that corrects the size, shape, or position of the auricle – the cartilage that forms the outer ear.
Dr. Anthony Farole and his team perform three different kinds of otoplasties on patients:
- Ear reduction. Ear reduction involves reducing the physical size of the auricle in an aesthetically pleasing way. It is ideal for people who are unhappy with the large size of their ears
- Ear pinning. This type of otoplasty attempts to stop the ears from sticking out by “pinning” them closer to the head.
- Ear augmentation. The outer ears begin developing in the womb and continue to do so in the first few years of life. Developmental issues, however, can interrupt this process in some people, leading to smaller-than-normal auricles. People affected by this condition can use otoplasty to increase the size of the outer ear.
Otoplasty Cost Factors
The cost of otoplasty depends on a variety of factors. These include:
- The experience, education, and prestige of the surgeon performing the operation
- The location of the surgery. (Clinics in high rent areas charge more to cover their costs)
- The reputation of the medical establishment carrying out the work
- Anesthesia costs
- The cost of medications
- The type of facility used
- The cost of pre- and post-surgical garments
- The type of otoplasty
- Testing costs
Benefits of Otoplasty
While otoplasty is an invasive procedure, downtime tends to be minimal. Most patients experience very little postoperative discomfort. Swelling and bruising typically last around a week.
Once complete, the ear takes on a more visually pleasing appearance, helping to boost confidence. Ear pinning helps position the outer ear at an angle between 25 and 35 degrees, preventing it from “sticking out.” The technique is particularly popular among children and people whose work or social lives require maintaining a specific appearance.
Because otoplasty is a surgical intervention, the results are permanent. Once the surgical team at Dr. Farole’s practice removes patients’ bandages, they can enjoy their new ears for the rest of their lives.
Am I a Candidate for Otoplasty?
Otoplasty is rarely a functional necessity. Instead, it is a procedure that some patients choose to use when they feel self-conscious about the size and/or shape of their ears. If you have excessive large or small ears, or your ears stick out, you could be a great candidate for the procedure.
Take the Next Step
Do you want to learn more about otoplasty? Schedule a consultation at Dr. Farole’s Facial Cosmetic Surgery Center in Bala Cynwyd, PA by giving us a call at (610) 668-3300 today.