Procedures

The ideal ear is one that is not noticed. There are numerous reasons why someone might be thinking about having ear surgery (otoplasty).
Ear Plastic Surgery (Otoplasty) in Dallas, TX
Otoplasty, or ear surgery, is a specialized ear cosmetic surgery designed to enhance the shape, position, or size of the ears. At Dallas Premier Plastic Surgery, Dr. Deniz Basci, MD, offers expertise in tailoring procedures to suit each patient’s unique needs, whether addressing prominent ears, repairing injuries, or correcting asymmetry.
What is an Otoplasty?
This procedure is sometimes referred to as ear pinning. The goal of ear surgery is to make the ears less prominent or bring them closer to the head so they don’t stick out too far. Otoplasty can be a powerful tool to change the size of the ears, create more natural contours and folds of the ears, or establish better symmetry between the two.
One of the challenges of otoplasty is matching two ears that start markedly different. A detailed plan before surgery offers the best chance of a natural, long-lasting, symmetric result.
The Scoop
Benefits of Having Ear Surgery
Undergoing an ear surgery procedure offers both cosmetic and emotional benefits, such as:
- Enhanced self-confidence and comfort with your appearance.
- Improved facial symmetry.
- Resolution of congenital deformities or ear injuries.
Ideal Candidates for Ear Surgery
You may be a good candidate for otoplasty if you are in good overall health without medical conditions that could impair healing and have concerns about your ears’ size, shape, or position. This procedure is also suitable for individuals seeking to repair ear injuries or correct congenital conditions.
Additionally, children as young as five may qualify for ear pinning surgery, as this is the age when the ears typically reach full development.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Dr. Basci performs ear surgery with general anesthesia administered by a licensed physician. She then creates discreet incisions in the groove to access and reveal the underlying cartilage network. Specialized suture techniques bend the cartilage and hold it in a more desirable configuration. Excess cartilage is trimmed, and the ear is repositioned towards the head.
Dr. Basci uses meticulous tension-free suturing techniques to help incisions heal in the best way your body produces scars. The procedure takes one to two hours, and patients typically go home the same day unless other procedures are simultaneously being performed that recommend an overnight stay.
Fast About Your Surgery Process
- Before Surgery: 1 hour consultation with Dr. Deniz Basci with 3D medical studio photography to customize your treatment plan and answer all your questions followed by a pre-operative visit the week before you scheduled procedure
- Surgery: 1-2 hours per ear depending on your individually tailored operation
- Anesthesia: General Anesthesia performed by a licensed physician
- After Surgery: Go home the same day to begin recovery
- Recovery:
- 1 week of moderate pain and discomfort before being able to return to work and light aerobic exercise; expect temporary bruising, moderate swelling, and areas of numbness and tingling
- 3 months of sensitive ears before being able to resume heavy lifting and intense activities; expect gradual improvement in swelling and areas of numbness and tingling
- 12 months before the “final result” incisions are fully mature and swelling is completely resolved, time for any minor revisions or touch ups


Otoplasty Techniques:
Each ear is unique and presents a distinct set of irregularities that must be individually identified and addressed during surgery. Dr Deniz Basci has advanced training and expertise in cosmetic ear surgery and will design a customized operative plan based on your specific ear morphology.
An incision is usually made behind the ear in the groove, and the skin is elevated to reveal the underlying cartilage framework. Specialized suture techniques are used to bend the cartilage and hold it in a more desirable configuration. Excess cartilage is trimmed and the ear is repositioned in towards the head.
Dr. Basci uses meticulous tension free suturing techniques to help incisions heal in the best way your body produces scar. Patient typically go home the same day unless other procedures are simultaneously being performed that recommend an overnight stay.
How to Prepare for Your Ear Surgery
Prior to any surgery Dr Basci will review your general health history, surgical history and current medications. You will need to stop taking any medications or supplements that increase the risk of bleeding 2 weeks before surgery and remain off of them for 2 weeks following surgery. Make sure to check with your primary prescribing physician before stopping any medications.
It is important to prime your body with a healthy balanced diet in the months leading up to surgery. Make sure you have the appropriate protein intake. Protein is vital for healing. You may need to supplement your diet with protein shakes or bars for 3-6 weeks after surgery as your body works overtime to heal the surgical site.
Recovery Timeline & Aftercare
Following otoplasty, patients can expect mild discomfort and swelling, which can be managed with medication and a compression bandage. Most individuals return to work or school within a week, though strenuous activities should be avoided for several weeks.
Here is a general timeline of a patient’s recovery plan:
- Week 1: Expect moderate pain and discomfort before being able to return to work and light aerobic exercise, temporary bruising, moderate swelling, and areas of numbness and tingling. Your ears might be sensitive for three months.
- Month 3: You might be able to resume heavy lifting and intense activities. Expect gradual improvement in swelling and areas of numbness and tingling.
- Month 12: The “final result” incisions are fully mature, and the swelling is completely resolved. It might be time for any minor revisions or touch-ups.
Dr. Basci also provides detailed aftercare instructions for optimal healing and long-lasting results:
- Shower after removing your surgical dressing, but avoid pressure on the ears.
- Apply ointment daily to incisions and protect them from sun exposure.
- Follow a protein-rich diet for 3–6 weeks to support healing.
- Sleep with your head elevated for 1–2 weeks to minimize swelling.
- Begin light walking on the evening of surgery; full activity resumes after six weeks.

How Much Does Ear Surgery Cost?
The cost of ear surgery depends on factors such as the complexity of the procedure and anesthesia requirements. Patients can expect prices to range between $3,000 and $6,000 on average. During your ear surgery consultation, Dr. Basci will provide a personalized quote based on your needs.
Why Choose Dr. Basci?
Dr. Deniz Basci has specialized training and expertise in ear aesthetics. After discussing your concerns and examining your ear morphology, Dr. Basci will design a custom treatment plan for one or both ears based on your needs.
Attention-grabbing ears are a common source of insecurity or low self-esteem in children and adults. This may cause significant distress and lead to preoccupation with hiding one’s ears under long hair or hats. Correcting the proportion of the ears to the head and balancing the ears with other facial features can quickly restore a person’s confidence.
Common Questions About Ear Surgery
How long do results from otoplasty last?
Otoplasty results are typically permanent. Once the ear cartilage is reshaped, it retains its new position, giving you lasting confidence in your appearance.
Is ear surgery painful?
Patients usually experience mild discomfort during recovery, which can be managed with prescribed medications. Most report that the results far outweigh the temporary discomfort.
Will there be visible scars after ear surgery?
Dr. Basci places incisions strategically behind the ear, making scars minimal and virtually invisible once healed.
Can children have ear surgery?
Yes, children as young as five are often ideal candidates for ear pinning surgery, especially if the goal is to correct prominent ears before they cause social discomfort.
How soon can I resume normal activities?
Most patients return to non-strenuous activities within a week. However, avoid heavy lifting and contact sports for at least four weeks.
Schedule Your Otoplasty Consultation Today!
If you’re considering otoplasty, Dr. Deniz Basci, MD, at Dallas Premier Plastic Surgery, is here to help. Schedule your ear surgery consultation today and take the first step toward enhanced confidence and facial harmony.
