Otoplasty (Ear Pinning)
In Chicago & Glenview, IL
Chicago Aesthetics Surgery & Med Spa in Chicago & Glenview, IL is led by Dr. John D. Rachel, MD, FACS, a facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon who is quadruple board-certified.
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Otoplasty
What is
Otoplasty?
Ear surgery, also known as otoplasty, can improve the shape, position, or proportion of the ear. Otoplasty can correct a defect in the ear structure that is present at birth that becomes apparent with development or it can treat misshapen ears caused by injury.
Ear surgery creates a natural shape, while bringing balance and proportion to the ears and face. Correction of even minor deformities can have profound benefits to appearance and self-esteem.
Is a
Otoplasty Right for Me?
- Protruding ears
- Misshapen Ears
- Large ears or earlobes
Before & After
Otoplasty Results
Experience the difference for yourself—our before & after gallery showcases thousands of successful surgeries and satisfied patients. It’s no surprise that Chicago Aesthetics Surgery & Med Spa surgeons are recognized among the top cosmetic plastic surgeons in Chicago, Illinois. See why so many trust us for their transformations.
Otoplasty
Surgical Techniques
Protruding Ears
Ears that protrude too far from the head may cause embarrassment or force you to wear certain hairstyles or hats to attempt to hide your ears. In these cases, ear surgery can be life changing. The procedure may involve placing stitches in the ear cartilage, removing a small section of cartilage, or both based on your unique ear structure.
Misshapen Ears
If only one ear is protruding, one is larger, or you have a “shell-shaped” ear, the problem can be corrected with a custom surgery. Surgery is often performed when a patient is younger while the ear cartilage is still soft and flexible. Many adults are also good candidates and seek otoplasty to correct misshapen ears.
Large Earlobes
Some people inherited very large, thick ears or earlobes, and choose to undergo surgery to remove excess skin and tissue to create a more aesthetic size.
Otoplasty
Recovery
The recovery period averages seven to ten days. You may experience some bruising and swelling around the ears following your surgery.
You should rest with your head elevated to prevent excess swelling from occurring and limit your physical activity for a week following your procedure. Most patients return to work within five to seven days. After two weeks, most swelling should subside, and your final results will be visible.
Contact sports and wearing a helmet are discouraged for several months, and any activity which puts the ears in jeopardy of trauma should be avoided.
The Cost of
Otoplasty
The cost of your otoplasty in Chicago will be based on the techniques used and the work needed to provide the patients with their ideal results. Dr. Rachel can answer any questions you may have about the cost of your procedure and go over the payment options we offer. Financing options are also available.
Contact Us
Schedule a Consultation
If you or your child are bothered by the appearance of your ears and would like to know if otoplasty is right for you, contact Chicago Aesthetics Surgery & Med Spa today to schedule a consultation. Dr. John Rachel is a highly skilled facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon who is dedicated to providing the best otoplasty results Chicago has to offer.
Why Choose
Dr. Rachel
You want a clear recommendation, realistic expectations, and results that still look like you. At Chicago Aesthetics Surgery & Med Spa in Chicago and Glenview, we start with an anatomy-led plan based on your goals. We’ll tell you what we think will work, what won’t, and why. We explain your options in plain language, including what we would not recommend, so you can feel confident with your decision.
Dr. John D. Rachel, MD, FACS is a facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon. He is quadruple board-certified in Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, and the American Board of Facial Cosmetic Surgery. He completed residency training in Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery at Wayne State/Detroit Medical Center and a Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery fellowship at the Beeson Cosmetic Surgery Institute. He has been in practice since 2001, is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS), and has published peer-reviewed research in facial plastic surgery and skin rejuvenation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Otoplasty Surgery
How old does my child have to be to undergo ear surgery?
How long will my results last after Otoplasty surgery?
Can prominent ears correct themselves naturally?
When can I swim after Otoplasty surgery?
Can I pierce my ears after Otoplasty?
Will the reconstructed area look exactly like it did before?
What kind of anesthesia is used?
What is the recovery time like?
Are there any risks associated with skin cancer reconstruction?
Chicago Aesthetics
Reviews & Testimonials
Conditions We Treat
At Chicago Aesthetic Surgery & Med Spa, we know that your goals are personal and your concerns are unique. View our complete guide to the most common concerns we treat and the solutions that deliver safe, natural-looking results.
We offer surgical & Non-Surgical
Services
At Chicago Aesthetics Surgery & Med Spa, our team of board-certified cosmetic & plastic surgeons are renowned for their extensive training, unparalleled experience, and dedication to surgical artistry. Our entire staff is committed to helping you elevate your natural beauty and making your transformation journey one of the best decisions you'll ever make.
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Enhance your natural beauty with personalized skin, body, and wellness treatments from Chicago’s trusted med spa, led by Dr. John D. Rachel.




