Otoplasty in Chicago
Concerns about ear shape can affect how comfortable you feel wearing your hair back or appearing in photographs. At the practice of Elias Gikas, MD, FACS, otoplasty in Chicago gives children and adults options for addressing prominent or uneven ears. Dr. Gikas evaluates each patient’s anatomy and goals before recommending surgery.
What Is Otoplasty?
Otoplasty reshapes the outer ear to improve its position, proportions, or contour. Ear pinning is a common type of otoplasty that brings protruding ears closer to the head. Other techniques can address differences in size or folds that have not developed as expected.
The correction depends on the underlying concern. A poorly defined cartilage fold may require a different approach from an enlarged central bowl that pushes the ear outward.
Who Is a Candidate for Ear Surgery?
Good candidates have a specific concern about their ears and realistic expectations about the improvement surgery can provide. An evaluation also considers whether they can safely undergo the procedure and follow recovery instructions.
Candidates generally should:
- Be in good overall health, without conditions that could interfere with healing.
- Have no untreated ear infections.
- Avoid smoking and nicotine use.
- Be able to protect their ears during recovery.
For children, the cartilage must be developed enough to support correction, often around age five or later. Emotional readiness also matters: the child should understand the procedure at an age-appropriate level and feel comfortable with the decision.
Your Otoplasty Consultation
Dr. Gikas examines the ears from several angles, assessing their folds, projection, and relationship to each other. He determines whether correction would involve one or both ears and explains the changes that may be achievable.
The consultation also includes a review of medical history, medications, previous ear procedures, and any healing concerns. Parents can discuss their child’s readiness and how recovery may affect school and activities.
How Is Otoplasty Performed?
Ear surgery is generally an outpatient procedure and often takes approximately two to three hours. Local or general anesthesia may be used, depending on the patient’s age, the extent of correction, and the surgical plan.
Dr. Gikas typically places an incision behind the ear to access the cartilage. He may reshape it, remove a limited amount, or use internal sutures to establish a more balanced position. The combination of techniques depends on the ear’s structure.
After closing the incision, he applies a protective dressing to support the correction during early healing.
Recovery After Ear Surgery
Recovery involves protecting the ears while the incisions heal and the cartilage settles into its new position. Before going home, patients receive instructions for dressing care, medication, and follow-up appointments.
Early Healing
Soreness, swelling, and tenderness are expected initially. Swelling may remain noticeable for two to three weeks, although healing varies.
Keep dressings in place as instructed and avoid pressure or friction against the ears. Contact the office if discomfort worsens or does not respond to the prescribed medication.
Returning to Everyday Activities
The timing of a return to school or work depends on comfort, healing, and the demands of the activity. Sports, rough play, and other activities that could bend or strike the ears require a longer restriction.
Dr. Gikas will advise when these activities can resume and whether a protective headband is needed. Follow-up visits allow him to check the incisions and assess healing.
What Results Can You Expect?
The change in ear position is often visible when the initial dressings are removed. The contours become easier to assess as swelling decreases.
Otoplasty generally produces a lasting correction, but perfect symmetry is not a realistic expectation. The aim is a balanced appearance that suits the patient’s features.
Before-and-After Photos
Dr. Gikas’s otoplasty before-and-after photos show examples of changes in ear projection and shape. These images can help patients discuss their preferences, although individual anatomy and healing affect the outcome.
How Much Does Otoplasty Cost?
The cost of ear surgery depends on the extent of correction, surgical time, anesthesia, and facility fees. An individualized estimate should clarify which expenses are included.
Cosmetic otoplasty generally is not covered by health insurance. The practice offers financing options, which patients can discuss with the office when planning treatment.
Why Choose Dr. Elias Gikas for Otoplasty?
Dr. Elias Gikas is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He completed his plastic surgery residency at the University of Illinois College of Medicine, where he also served as chief resident.
His approach emphasizes careful patient selection and an honest explanation of what surgery can achieve. He performs most procedures in a hospital or approved surgical center and uses board-certified anesthesiologists for anesthesia care.
Otoplasty FAQs
Talk Through Your Ear Surgery Options
To discuss otoplasty in Chicago for yourself or your child, request a consultation with Dr. Elias Gikas. Bring your questions about the changes you want and the recovery involved so you can decide whether surgery is appropriate.
