Protruding ears can lead to social anxiety for both children and adults. The most common reason for this protrusion is the underdevelopment of one of the cartilage components of the ear. Dr. Keith Ladner can recreate this normal structure through cosmetic ear surgery (otoplasty) to give patients from Denver, Los Angeles, and surrounding areas natural-appearing, symmetrical, and properly positioned ears. Dr. Ladner also performs earlobe repair surgery to restore the shape and size of torn, stretched, and elongated earlobes.
Keep in mind that each patient is unique and your results may vary.
How Is Otoplasty Performed?
Dr. Ladner typically corrects protruding ears by removing skin from the backside of the ear and sculpting the underlying cartilage through this hidden incision. Otoplasty usually takes 1 to 2.5 hours and can be done under local anesthesia with or without sedation or general anesthesia. Together, with Dr. Ladner, the appropriate anesthetic plan will be determined.
What Is Otoplasty Recovery Like?
A dressing will be placed over the ear(s) for protection and will be removed 1 to 2 days after surgery. The patient will then be instructed to wear a headband covering the ears at all times for an additional week. The headband will then be worn at night for an additional 4 to 8 weeks for optimal results. The sutures dissolve on their own and do not require removal. Pain is usually minimal if you sleep on your back and avoid direct contact with the ear.
Earlobe Repair
Although earrings serve to enhance the aesthetic appearance of the ears, they can lead to changes in the earlobes over time. They can cause stretching, enlargement, and tearing of the earlobes. Additionally, keloids can also occur. Surgery can easily correct these problems and restore the previous appearance of the ear(s).
Earlobe Repair Procedure
Under local anesthesia, stretched or torn earlobes are reduced to their natural size through carefully placed incisions. If keloids are present, these are removed and the maximal amount of normal tissue is preserved. The procedure lasts 45 minutes or less.
Earlobe Repair Recovery
You can expect to return to work or normal activities immediately following the procedure. Wound care instructions will be provided to promote healing.
Why Choose Ladner Facial Plastic Surgery for Otoplasty
When it comes to reshaping and repositioning the ears, precision and a deep understanding of facial balance are essential. At Ladner Facial Plastic Surgery, Dr. Keith Ladner brings both surgical expertise and aesthetic sensitivity to every otoplasty procedure. As a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon with advanced fellowship training, Dr. Ladner specializes exclusively in facial procedures, allowing him to deliver natural-looking results that enhance symmetry and restore confidence—whether correcting prominent ears, asymmetry, or past injuries.
With locations in Denver, CO and Beverly Hills, CA, our practice is known for concierge-level care and exceptional patient outcomes. From your initial consultation to your final follow-up, you’ll receive individualized attention and transparent communication in a supportive, welcoming environment. Dr. Ladner and his team are committed to helping patients—children, teens, and adults—achieve results that look refined, not obvious, and feel like the best version of themselves.
Feel Confident in Your Appearance With Otoplasty in Denver, CO, or Beverly Hills, CA
Women and men looking for an ear surgery specialist in Denver or Beverly Hills often choose Dr. Ladner. You can request a consultation to meet with him personally or call our office at (213) 457-7740 to schedule an appointment.