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Reshaping the Ears for a More Balanced Profile

Otoplasty repositions and reshapes the ears to sit closer to the head and appear more proportionate with the rest of the face. At Nashville Cosmetic Surgery, Dr. Don Griffin performs otoplasty for both adult and adolescent patients, tailoring the degree of correction to each individual's ear shape and goals. Ready to explore how otoplasty could improve your profile? Schedule a consultation to discuss your options.

What Is a Otoplasty?

Otoplasty, often called ear surgery or ear pinning, reshapes the cartilage of the ear to correct protrusion, asymmetry, or other structural concerns. It's commonly associated with correcting prominent ears, though it can also address ears that are uneven in size, shape, or position relative to one another. Because ear cartilage is fully developed by around age five or six, otoplasty is one of the few cosmetic procedures frequently performed on children as well as adults.

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Dr. Don Griffin

Meet Dr. Don Griffin

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Your Nashville Facial Plastic Surgeon

Dr. Don Griffin is a dual board-certified plastic surgeon and Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, with more than 30 years of experience across a wide range of facial procedures. His general surgery training, completed at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, gives him a strong foundation in the kind of precise, structural work otoplasty requires. Dr. Griffin approaches each otoplasty in Nashville individually, recognizing that ear shape and degree of protrusion vary significantly from one patient to the next.

Benefits of an Otoplasty

For many patients, otoplasty resolves a self-consciousness that's often been present since childhood.

  • A more proportionate, natural-looking ear position
  • Improved symmetry between the ears
  • Increased confidence with hairstyles that expose the ears
  • Long-lasting results from a single procedure
  • A boost in confidence for both children and adults
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Are You a Good Candidate for Otoplasty?

You may be a good candidate for otoplasty in Nashville if you or your child feels self-conscious about protruding, asymmetrical, or unusually shaped ears. Otoplasty is commonly performed on children once ear cartilage has fully developed, though many adults choose to pursue correction later in life as well.

Good candidates are in good general health with realistic expectations about improved position and symmetry. During your consultation, Dr. Griffin will evaluate the ear cartilage and structure to determine the most effective technique for your specific concern.

Otoplasty for Children Versus Adults

While the surgical goals are similar, there are some differences worth understanding depending on the patient's age.

  • For children, otoplasty is often performed once ears have reached adult size, typically by age five or six, and before school-age teasing can affect self-esteem.
  • For adults, the procedure addresses long-standing concerns or changes noticed over time, with the same techniques used regardless of when correction is pursued.

Dr. Griffin will discuss age-appropriate considerations, including anesthesia options, during your consultation.

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“I chose Dr. Griffin to perform my Blepharoplasty and was delighted by his friendly, professional demeanor. He is an excellent surgeon, supported by an accommodating and welcoming team that worked with my schedule to set up my procedure quickly.”

Cindy Miller

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What to Expect During Your Otoplasty

This procedure is performed at our private, accredited surgical center, typically taking one to two hours depending on the degree of correction needed and whether both ears are treated. Dr. Griffin reshapes the ear cartilage through an incision placed behind the ear, keeping the resulting scars well hidden within the natural fold. He'll review your specific technique and expected results in detail during your consultation. Most patients, including children, return home the same day with clear aftercare instructions.

Recovery and Results Following Otoplasty

Most patients take about a week off work or school, with a protective headband typically worn for a period afterward to support healing.

Swelling and mild discomfort in the first few days are normal and improve quickly. Final results are generally visible once initial swelling resolves, usually within a few weeks. Our team checks in with you or your child regularly throughout recovery to monitor healing and comfort.

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Why Choose Nashville Cosmetic Surgery?

Otoplasty calls for precise, structural work regardless of a patient's age, and Dr. Griffin's decades of surgical experience support exactly that level of care. Our private surgical center and concierge-style approach mean both our youngest and most experienced patients receive the same personal attention throughout their care.

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Otoplasty Frequently Asked Questions

At what age can otoplasty be performed?

Otoplasty is typically performed once ear cartilage has fully developed, usually around age five or six, though many patients choose to have the procedure later in adulthood.

Will otoplasty affect my child's hearing?

No. Otoplasty addresses the external shape and position of the ear and does not affect the structures involved in hearing.

How long do otoplasty results last?

Results are permanent, since the procedure reshapes the ear cartilage itself rather than relying on a temporary correction.

Will there be a visible scar after otoplasty?

The incision is placed behind the ear, within its natural fold, making the resulting scars very difficult to see once healed.

Can otoplasty correct uneven ears rather than just protruding ones?

Yes. Otoplasty can address a range of concerns, including asymmetry between the ears, not just protrusion.

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Schedule a Consultation

Receive the aesthetic care you deserve from one of the best plastic surgeons in Nashville. Contact NCS today to schedule your private consultation with Dr. Don Griffin.

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