Otoplasty FAQ

Dr. Houtan Chaboki is board-certified in otolaryngology (head and neck surgery) and facial plastic and reconstructive surgery. To learn more about cosmetic ear surgery in Maryland request a cosmetic consultation with Dr. Chaboki online or call his office at (202) 800-2085. He serves men and women in Washington, DC, Northern Virginia, and Maryland.

Torn Ear Lobe
 Before & After Photos

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Before & After Torn Ear Lobe Case 34 Left Side View in Washington, DC
Before & After
Case: 1 of 2

Gage earlobe repair in a young man

Ear lobes may be become stretched, enlarged, torn, or split from such factors as injury or heavy earrings. Plastic surgery on the ear lobe can help restore the skin via an office procedure with local anesthesia. Washington DC area patients typically go back to work the same day and have their stitches removed after one week. Read More
Before & After Torn Ear Lobe Case 11 Left Side View in Washington, DC
Before & After
Case: 2 of 2

Split Earlobe repair to treat torn earlobes in an older female

Ear lobe injuries are common. Torn ear lobes may occur from heavy earrings, metal allergy, or trauma. Splits in the ear lobe are easily repaired in the office with local anesthesia. A northern Virginia woman was seeking repair of her torn earlobe. She had injured the ear from wearing large earrings. She underwent split ear lobe repair under l... Read More

Keep in mind that each patient is unique and your results may vary.

How much time passes between the initial consultation and Ear surgery?

Generally, a minimum of 2 weeks are allowed from the consultation to prepare for surgery. Select procedures may be performed earlier. Nonsurgical procedures may be performed at the same time as the initial consultation.

Can I combine cosmetic Ear Surgery with other facial surgery?

Yes, it’s generally preferred to combine procedures. First, by combining surgery, insurance may cover a portion of the procedure, and you may save money on fees. Secondly, tissue modified from one area may be used for another surgical area. Lastly, the recovery process following surgery would only be once, and you minimize downtime by avoiding two separate procedures. Commonly combined procedures with ear surgery include the following:

  • Eyelid Surgery
  • Face Lift
  • Fat Transfer
  • Chemical Peel
  • BOTOX® Cosmetic

When can I resume regular exercise after Ear Surgery?

Strenuous activities or exercise after plastic surgery will increase the risk of bleeding, swelling, and bruising, until an appropriate healing time has been allowed. This restriction during the recovery period varies based on the operation performed and patient’s medical condition. Light activities, such as slow walking, may be performed soon after anesthesia. Heavy activity, such as aerobics, yoga, cycling, running, heavy lifting, or similar vigorous activities are allowed after 2 weeks from the procedure. Contact sports are generally allowed after 6 weeks from surgery.

Will I need time off work after Ear Surgery?

Most patients do not require any time off from work, and may even return to work on the same day. A longer period of recovery may be necessary for ear reshaping (otoplasty) or combined procedures.

How long is the procedure?

Ear surgery is relatively quick surgical procedure. The length of surgery may range from 15 minutes or longer.

What health conditions threaten a successful recovery after Ear Surgery?

Dr. Chaboki performs a complete history and physical on all patients prior to undergoing cosmetic treatments. Cosmetic ear surgery in Maryland may usually be safely performed on many chronic, stable medical conditions. However, ear surgery may be delayed or cancelled as needed for patient safety. Dr. Chaboki will work with his cosmetic patients to help find a safe, appropriate plastic surgery option for them.

Will smoking affect my recovery after Ear Surgery?

Smoking adversely affects your recovery. One may develop pneumonia, and treated areas don’t heal as well or may become infected. The blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients to the tissues shrink up and prevent the necessary healing of the area. Patients must stop smoking for a minimum of two weeks prior to surgery to decrease the risk of these complications, and continue smoking cessation after the procedure.

What is recovery like after Ear Surgery?

Downtime after cosmetic procedures may be a few hours to several days, depending on the specific procedure and areas treated. Office procedures are performed under local anesthesia, if any anesthesia is required. Surgical procedures are performed with either IV (twilight) sedation or general anesthesia and require a longer recovery period. Anesthesia normally wears off within the first 24 hours after surgery.

Where is Ear Surgery performed?

Dr. Chaboki practices facial plastic surgery at several DC area surgical facilities to accommodate his patients. Minor procedures with local anesthesia are performed in the DC office. Surgical procedures with IV (twilight) sedation or general anesthesia are performed at accredited facilities with a board-certified anesthesiologist.

  • Georgetown University Medical Center
  • MedStar Surgery Center

Does insurance cover Ear Surgery?

Dr. Chaboki provides the finest in both cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery at affordable prices, and participates with most insurance plans. Plastic surgery covers a broad area of medicine, which includes both reconstructive procedures and cosmetic procedures. If your procedure is medically indicated, some portion of the cost may be covered. The office accepts insurance in applicable cases and will, if you wish, contact your insurance company to find out if your procedure will be covered. Insurance coverage varies greatly for patients, however, ear surgery may be partially or fully covered.

How much does Ear Surgery cost?

Ear surgery is performed for many different reasons, and the ultimate cost of your procedure depends on the specifics of your surgery. The cost of most otoplasty procedures ranges from $3,500 to $7,500. *

* Price information is an estimation and individual pricing will vary. All prices are subject to change and costs are non-refundable.

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