What Is Otoplasty And How Can It Change Your Appearance?

If you have ever seriously considered changing your appearance, perhaps with a nose job (rhinoplasty), a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), or a breast lift (mammoplasty), then you are familiar with the "-plasty" suffix — and are aware that there are many cosmetic procedures, treatments, and surgeries that can help you achieve the changes you desire. 

With new, innovative technology, cosmetic procedures are more accessible, affordable, and less invasive than ever before (per Healthline). Cosmetic surgeries and procedures have recently seen a dramatic uptick, and the experts at Healthline believe it's partially due to the technological advances and affordability of treatments. 

Another lesser-known -plasty, otoplasty, which involves repositioning the ears closer to the face or perhaps reconstructing the ear shape, is a surgical procedure that can completely change the way you look. The surgery typically takes about 45 minutes per ear and adults can have this done under a local anesthetic (via The Healthy).

If you are unhappy with your ears, you might consider an otoplasty surgery, which can dramatically change your appearance by flattening the ears so they don't protrude as much (via The Healthy). According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), this procedure is used for those who have overly large ears, protruding ears, and also to correct birth defects of the ear structure or injuries that have damaged the ear.

The Mayo Clinic reports that the surgery is safe for anyone with fully developed ears, typically after age five, and further explains that otoplasty is an individualized surgery, determined by the person's facial structure and the type of correction needed. 

As with any plastic surgery, otoplasty can have a huge impact on a person's well-being and self-esteem. As New York City-based, board-certified facial plastic surgeon Michelle R. Yagoda told The Healthy, "The results are quite life-changing for most patients."