Can a Reverse Otoplasty Successfully Bring My Ear Back Out?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I read your answer about the helix being out of view in an otoplasty that is overdone or pulled back too far.. I would like to know if I come to you for a reverse otoplasty, how long would it take for the surgery and do I need someone with me? I would rather keep the procedure to myself. Right now a simple rolled up double sided piece of tape stuck in the crease between the head and ear makes me very satisfied and no one has noticed it that I know of for over a year doing so. It makes me self conscious that someone might see it though and I would rather have something permanent that will make it more comfortable as after several hours it pinches the skin.

A: Thank you for your inquiry. The success of a reverse otoplasty depends on the placement of an interpositional cartilage graft…which may come close to replicating the effect of a roll of tape that you put behind your ear. This is a procedure done under local anesthesia so there is no problem with you coming by yourself.

I will have my assistant Camille pass along the cost of the surgery to you on Monday. In the interim please send me some pictures of your ears for my assessment for this procedure.

Dr. Barry Eppley
Indianapolis, Indiana