Children and adults with prominent ears that protrude from the head can endure a lot of teasing and self-consciousness. Otoplasty—ear surgery—can reshape the ears or “pin” them to the head so that they no longer protrude.
Our surgeons have many years of experience performing customized ear surgeries that can adjust the proportion, shape, and/or projection of the ears. All patients must be at least five years of age so that the ear cartilage is stable enough for the procedure. Our surgeons work with children and adults, helping them to achieve more normal-looking ears.
YOUR OTOPLASTY CONSULTATION
We believe you need to be well informed about otoplasty so that you can make an informed decision about your procedure and your surgeon. This includes the results you can expect, the processes of preparing for the surgery, and the recovery period. Your surgeon will meet with you about your concerns and personal goals. They will examine you or your child and tell you what they can accomplish through ear surgery. They will also advise you on what the surgery will involve in terms specific to your case.
Choosing a surgeon is an intensely personal decision. We encourage you to ask questions of our surgeons and our team. We want you to feel comfortable with us and your decision to have surgery at The Waldorf Center.
THREE TALENTED DOCTORS
ONE FOCUSED MISSION
The experienced surgeons at The Waldorf Center for Plastic Surgery—Dr. Kathleen Waldorf, Dr. Rachel Streu and Dr. Heidi Johng—built the practice on a foundation of providing patients with high quality, ethical care. One of their guiding principles is a belief that cosmetic surgery is as much an art as it is a science.
Meet The Doctors
The experienced surgeons at The Waldorf Center for Plastic Surgery—Dr. Kathleen Waldorf, Dr. Rachel Streu and Dr. Heidi Johng—built the practice on a foundation of providing patients with high quality, ethical care. One of their guiding principles is a belief that cosmetic surgery is as much an art as it is a science.
YOUR EAR SURGERY
Ear surgery is highly individualized, so the techniques used are varied depending upon the particular characteristic of the ears and what the patient wishes to change. In the case of prominent ears, an incision can be made behind the ear, and the cartilage can be reshaped to help the ear sit closer to the head.
Regardless of the technique used, incisions are typically hidden in the natural folds of the ear or on the back of the ear.
The procedure usually takes one to two hours and is performed with the patient under a general anesthetic. Most patients go home the same day.
The Waldorf Center in Portland, OR, offers special financing for the recommended surgical or non-surgical procedure you want. Convenient monthly payments can be structured to fit your financial situation. Call the practice for more information at 503-646-0101 or contact us online.
RECOVERING FROM OTOPLASTY
The patient must wear a head dressing for a week after the surgery and must protect the ears for a total of six weeks. Most people take off one week from work or school after otoplasty, and strenuous activity should be avoided for six to eight weeks.*
There will be some swelling, bruising, tenderness, and discomfort, but these symptoms can be managed with pain medication that we recommend based on the age of the patient.
The patient must also avoid sleeping on the right or left side during the healing process. Elevating the head during sleep can help to reduce swelling.
Your surgeon will provide you with full post-operative instructions and will remove the sutures (where appropriate) during a follow-up visit.
Contact The Waldorf Center for Plastic Surgery to schedule a consultation for otoplasty in Portland, Oregon. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have.