Protruding or misshapen ears can cause self-consciousness at any age. Whether it’s a child teased at school or an adult who avoids wearing certain hairstyles, prominent ears may affect confidence and comfort. Dr. Keith Ladner, a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon with offices in Denver and Beverly Hills, specializes exclusively in facial and neck procedures, including cosmetic ear surgery. His precise approach to otoplasty and earlobe repair restores natural balance and symmetry while maintaining each patient’s individuality.
Keep in mind that each patient is unique and your results may vary.
What Is Otoplasty?
Otoplasty, also known as ear pinning surgery, corrects ears that stick out too far from the head or appear uneven due to cartilage development. The most common cause is an underdeveloped antihelical fold or an enlarged conchal bowl. Dr. Ladner recreates the natural shape and curvature of the ear so the result looks harmonious with the rest of the face. His goal is always to achieve a proportionate, refined appearance that blends seamlessly with surrounding features.
How Otoplasty Is Performed
Dr. Ladner performs otoplasty through a discreet incision hidden behind the ear. From this position, he reshapes and sculpts the cartilage, sometimes removing small amounts or adding carefully placed sutures to fold the ear into a more natural position. The surgery typically lasts between 1 and 2.5 hours. Depending on the patient’s age, health, and comfort level, it can be performed under local anesthesia with or without sedation, or under general anesthesia. During the consultation, Dr. Ladner will recommend the anesthetic plan best suited to the patient’s needs and preferences.
Otoplasty Recovery and Results
After surgery, the ears are protected with a light dressing for one to two days. Once removed, patients wear a soft headband to keep the ears in place and prevent accidental movement. The headband is worn full-time for the first week, then only at night for four to eight weeks. Sutures dissolve naturally, so there is no need to remove them. Mild swelling and sensitivity are expected but improve quickly, and most people experience minimal discomfort when sleeping on their backs. Final results reveal ears that are balanced, symmetrical, and positioned closer to the head for a natural, confident appearance.
Earlobe Repair
Earlobes are delicate structures that can stretch or tear from years of wearing heavy earrings, accidental pulls, or trauma. Dr. Ladner performs earlobe repair to restore the natural contour and size of the earlobes. The procedure is also ideal for patients with elongated or misshapen piercings or for those who wish to close stretched earlobes after gauged jewelry. Dr. Ladner’s attention to fine detail ensures that both ears appear even, smooth, and aesthetically pleasing after healing.
Earlobe Repair Procedure and Recovery
Earlobe repair is performed under local anesthesia and generally takes less than 45 minutes. Dr. Ladner carefully removes scar tissue or elongated openings and reshapes the lobe using delicate sutures. If a keloid or thickened scar is present, it is removed while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. Most patients return to work and normal activities immediately after the procedure. Simple wound care instructions help ensure proper healing and minimal scarring. Once fully healed, ears can be re-pierced if desired, typically after several months.
Why Choose Dr. Ladner for Ear Surgery
Dr. Keith Ladner is one of the few facial plastic surgeons in the Rocky Mountain and Beverly Hills regions who focus exclusively on procedures of the face and neck. His advanced fellowship training under one of the world’s leading facial plastic surgeons and years of teaching experience have made him an authority in delicate reconstructive techniques. Each ear surgery is approached with precision and artistry to achieve a balanced, natural look.
Patients benefit from care that combines technical mastery with warmth and clear communication. All procedures are performed in a fully accredited surgical center under the care of a board-certified anesthesiologist, ensuring the highest standards of safety and comfort. Fluent in Spanish, Dr. Ladner welcomes patients from diverse backgrounds and provides consultations that address both aesthetic and emotional goals with sensitivity and understanding.
Ear Surgery FAQs
Feel Confident in Your Appearance With Dr. Ladner
Dr. Keith Ladner combines advanced surgical skill with compassionate, patient-focused care to help each individual feel comfortable and confident in their appearance. He is renowned for his precision and artistry for natural-looking results. To schedule a consultation, contact (303) 253-7686 for the Denver office or (213) 457-7740 for the Beverly Hills office, or request an appointment online.