Restore balance and reduce the prominence of your ears by refining their cartilage framework through otoplasty in Monterey. David T. Morwood, MD, FACS, offers tailored ear surgery to improve facial harmony while maintaining a natural, proportionate appearance.
In Dr. Morwood's Words:
A common request at the time of a neck lift or facelift is to reduce the size of the ears. This reduction is typically limited to the earlobe itself. The earlobe can also be reshaped to appear more youthful with fat grafting.
The Truth About Plastic Surgery: An Educational Guide for the Consumer
This Procedure Treats:
- Prominent or protruding ears that extend too far from the head
- Oversized, misshapen, or asymmetrical ears
- Congenital ear deformities affecting size or structure
- Stretched, torn, or enlarged earlobes from trauma or heavy jewelry
- Self-consciousness or functional concerns related to ear appearance
Improve Ear Shape
and Facial Balance
Otoplasty (ear surgery) is a procedure performed to improve the foundation of your face by refining the shape and position of your ears. The ear is formed by a cartilaginous framework surrounded by skin, and in prominent ears, this is altered. Dr. Morwood addresses the absent anti-helical rim (the natural fold just inside the outer edge of the ear that helps create its contour) and the conchal-mastoid angle (the angle between the bowl of the ear and the mastoid bone behind it) to restore natural contours and bring the ear closer to the head.
Ear Surgery Treats:
- Overly prominent ears
- An absent anti-helical rim
- An increased conchal-mastoid angle
- Imbalance in ear shape and contour
- Ears positioned too far from the head
- Ears that appear to have grown more prominent over time
What to Expect From Ear Surgery With Dr. Morwood
During your otoplasty, Dr. Morwood works directly on the cartilaginous framework surrounded by skin that determines your ear’s shape and projection. Through a carefully placed incision behind the ear, the cartilage is exposed and precisely modified. If the anti-helical rim (the natural fold that gives the ear its contour) is absent, a new fold is fashioned using the Stenström approach. This involves weakening and shaping the cartilage so it bends into a more natural curve.
If the conchal-mastoid angle (the relationship between the “bowl of the ear” and the mastoid bone behind it) is increased, the Furnas technique is performed. In this step, carefully placed sutures reposition the concha closer to the mastoid, reducing the ear’s prominence. With these maneuvers, Dr. Morwood restores a more natural facial contour, bringing the ear closer to the head and improving overall facial harmony, balance, and symmetry.
Ear Surgery FAQs
Is Otoplasty Only Performed on Children?
While many otoplasties are performed in children between the ages of four and five, otoplasty is also common in adults. You may be an excellent candidate for otoplasty if you are bothered by prominent ears or feel that your ears have become more noticeable over time.
Will I Need Time to Adjust to My New Appearance?
Yes, because otoplasty alters the foundation of your face, you may experience a change in your body image. Even when the improvement is subtle, it can take time for you to adapt to your new appearance. Preparing for this adjustment is an important part of the process.
Will Ear Surgery Change My Overall Appearance Significantly?
Otoplasty can influence your appearance because it affects your facial foundation. However, the goal is not to create a radical change, but to restore balance. Even subtle refinements to the contour of your ears can enhance your appearance in a natural, harmonious way.
Have More Questions?
Learn More About Ear Surgery in The Truth About Plastic Surgery: An Educational Guide for the Consumer
If you would like a deeper understanding of otoplasty, Dr. Morwood’s book, The Truth About Plastic Surgery: An Educational Guide for the Consumer, provides detailed explanations in clear language, with anatomical drawings and real patient examples. You will learn how procedures such as ear sculpting refine the foundation of your face, what to expect, and how these changes influence facial harmony and symmetry.
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Achieve Natural Balance With Ear Surgery in Monterey
Dr. David Morwood is a board-certified plastic surgeon with 34+ years of experience refining the face, including advanced otoplasty techniques that enhance facial harmony. During your private consultation, you will review your medical history, discuss your concerns in front of a mirror, and explore precise adjustments. Dr. Morwood takes time to educate you, ensuring you understand your treatment. Schedule your consultation today to learn more about ear surgery in Monterey.
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