Can I Have My Ears Fixed At Age 15?

Q: Hi, I have one very prominent ear that is a big source of embarrassment for me. I am fifteen and this is a huge deal for me. I would love to get this fixed but I am worried about cost.

A:  First, it is important to know that I, nor any plastic surgeon, can communicate or have any medical discussion with a minor. It is critical that all minors have parental consent before any discussion can be done even by e-mail. An e-mail communication is no different than an office visit when it comes to providing medical advice to any patient. This can be done by having your parents fill out a form and return it to us so that we have confirmation of their knowledge of any future medical communications between  my office and you. This issue would eventually be crossed at some point if surgery ever becomes a reality, not only for consent for the operation but for payment as well.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana