Locations in Chicago & Glenview, IL

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.

Medically reviewed for accuracy.

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?

You may be a good candidate for a Otoplasty if you wish to correct any of the following issues:
  • Protruding ears
  • Misshapen Ears
  • Large ears or earlobes
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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.

A beautiful woman with long hair, smiling and touching her ear while looking in the mirror
A close up of a girl's face with her eyes closed

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

Dr. Rachel and staff

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.

Dr. Rachel and his team at Chicago Aesthetics Surgery & Med Spa in Chicago and Glenview

Frequently Asked Questions
Otoplasty Surgery

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How old does my child have to be to undergo ear surgery?

Otoplasty can be performed on children with nearly fully developed ears, which usually occurs around five to six years of age.

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How long will my results last after Otoplasty surgery?

Otoplasty results generally will last a lifetime.

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Can prominent ears correct themselves naturally?

Physical changes in the ears often occur naturally during the first six months after birth. After that time, if a physical abnormality exists, it may require some form of surgical intervention to correct.

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When can I swim after Otoplasty surgery?

You will be able to swim approximately eight weeks after your surgery.

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Can I pierce my ears after Otoplasty?

Patients interested in piercing their ears must wait at least two months after their surgery or until their wounds have fully healed.

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Will the reconstructed area look exactly like it did before?

Skin cancer reconstruction restores the appearance and function of the affected area. While Dr. John D. Rachel, a leading Chicago skin cancer surgeon, uses advanced facial reconstruction techniques, each patient’s outcome can differ. Your specific results will depend on the size and location of the original skin cancer, the type of surgery performed, and your body’s healing process.

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What kind of anesthesia is used?

The type of anesthesia used during skin cancer reconstruction varies based on the extent of the procedure and the patient’s health. For less extensive procedures, local anesthesia with sedation may be sufficient. However, for more comprehensive facial reconstruction after skin cancer, general anesthesia may be required. Dr. Rachel will discuss all options with you during your consultation.

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What is the recovery time like?

Recovery times vary from patient to patient. You may notice significant improvements within a few weeks, but it can take several months for the full benefits to be realized and for the healing to complete. Dr. Rachel and his team will provide detailed post-operative care instructions and support throughout your recovery.

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Are there any risks associated with skin cancer reconstruction?

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved in skin cancer reconstruction. These can include infection, scarring, anesthesia reactions, and dissatisfaction with the aesthetic results. Dr. Rachel discusses all potential risks with his patients and takes extensive measures to minimize them in every procedure.

Chicago Aesthetics
Reviews & Testimonials

Excellent4.8266 reviews
4.8
Excellent266 reviews
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Sara Glover
October 24, 2026
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I visited Carol for treatment on my forehead using dysport. Carol was kind & quick, making sure my experience was comfortable! It was my first time receiving any form of injectables & Carol was able to ease my mind by answering all of my questions with patience & pure knowledge! Carol has years of experience & im so grateful she was my injector! I recommend everyone be treated by Carol for injectables!
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Nathaly Acuna
October 21, 2026
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Everyone from the Doctors to staff, are amazingly professional and so sweet! Dr. Rachael’s knowledge and bedside manner make you feel so comfortable and at ease. I can’t recommend them enough!
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Monica Correa
October 19, 2026
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I really liked how the staff treated me. Everyone was very kind and professional, and they made me feel comfortable and well cared for throughout the entire experience.
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Barbara Kuczma
October 14, 2026
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Dr. John Rachel and his staff were wonderful to me. Made sure I was comfortable and kept me informed on everything they were going to do before, during and after my procedure. I will highly recommend Dr. John Rachel and his wonderful staff. Thank You, Barbara Kuczma
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Stamata “Tami” Georgas
October 8, 2026
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Exceptional Talent, Timeless Results, and Unmatched Expertise! When it comes to aesthetics, excellence is everything, and I can confidently say that Carol is truly in a league of her own. Her expertise, artistry, and meticulous attention to detail are simply unparalleled. She has an extraordinary ability to enhance natural beauty while maintaining elegance, balance, and sophistication. Her results are consistently flawless, refreshed, and beautifully understated — the true definition of timeless beauty. What makes Carol exceptional is not only her remarkable skill but also her integrity, professionalism, and genuine dedication to her clients. She understands that the finest aesthetic work is never obvious; it is effortlessly beautiful. Two decades of loyalty speak for themselves. I trust her implicitly and would never consider putting my face in anyone else’s hands. She is the epitome of excellence in aesthetic medicine, and I cannot recommend her highly enough. An absolute five-star experience, every single time!
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Danielle
October 7, 2026
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**⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Google Review** Stephanie was amazing! She did my laser hair removal treatment and made the entire experience so comfortable and easy. She was professional, knowledgeable, and took the time to answer all of my questions, which really put me at ease. The service was efficient, and I could tell she genuinely cared about providing great results and excellent customer care. I’m so happy with my experience and will definitely be coming back for future treatments. Highly recommend Stephanie to anyone considering laser hair removal!
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TG
October 7, 2026
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I have been coming to Carol for over 20 years, and that longevity truly speaks for itself. I continue to see her because she is incredibly educated, highly skilled, and genuinely listens to what you want and need. She takes the time to understand your goals and creates a plan that enhances your natural features in a way that feels authentic and balanced. Her work is beautiful, and refined. The results are always natural and confidence boosting. Beyond her talent, I trust her completely. After two decades, I can confidently say she is consistent, professional, and truly cares about her patients. If you're looking for perfection, Carol is definitely the person you should see! Highly recommended!
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Sam
October 2, 2026
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Alison and Tom are the best. They have a tailored approach and explain what and why they recommend treatments. I’m so excited to be working with them as I head into my bridal era - I know I will look my best with their help. 100000/10 recommend to everyone but especially brides 😃
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Neha Patel
September 22, 2026
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New update: I had a wonderful experience with Carol. She was professional, knowledgeable and paid attention to every detail to clearly explain my skin concerns. I’ll definitely be coming back! The moment I walked into the clinic I felt a happy, welcomed and professional setting. I had my Sofwave treatment with Alison Falada, Master Esthetician and Laser Specialist. She was nothing short of amazing! She was personable, knowledgeable, skilled and detailed throughout the entire experience. She took the time to thoroughly explain the entire process, addressed all of my my questions and concerns. Alison is an expert and provided great quality service! I love my results and can't wait to book my next appointment with her!
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Chris C
September 20, 2026
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Carol has been doing my Botox for the last few years. She is kind, easy to talk to, makes herself available and approachable! Always feel at ease when I come see her and she does great work, goes by so fast, we are always done before I even know it. Highly recommend visiting her.

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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Tues, Thurs & Fri: 9am - 5pm
Sat: 9am - 2pm
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About Us

Enhance your natural beauty with personalized skin, body, and wellness treatments from Chicago’s trusted med spa, led by Dr. John D. Rachel.