Ear Surgery Westlake Village & Thousand Oaks

Name: Ear Surgery
Brand: Tansavatdi Facial Plastic Surgery
Rating: 5 (361 reviews)

Otoplasty, Earlobe Repair, and Earlobe Reduction

The ears may seem like a small part of the face, but they can have a meaningful effect on facial balance, profile, hairstyle choices, and self-confidence. At Tansavatdi Facial Plastic Surgery, ear surgery is customized to each patient’s anatomy and goals, whether the concern involves prominent ears, ear shape, stretched earlobes, torn earlobes, or elongated earlobes that have changed with age.

Dr. Kristina Tansavatdi offers both otoplasty and lobuloplasty procedures. Otoplasty in Westlake Village is designed to reshape, reposition, or reduce the prominence of the ear. Lobuloplasty refers to earlobe repair, earlobe reconstruction, or earlobe reduction for concerns related to aging, trauma, piercing, or long-term earring use. Each procedure is planned with subtlety, balance, and natural-looking refinement in mind.

Small Changes That Can Restore Confidence

For many patients, ear concerns affect the way they wear their hair, jewelry, or move through the world. Prominent ears may make a patient feel self-conscious from childhood into adulthood. Stretched or elongated earlobes may make earrings sit poorly or make the lower face appear older. Torn earlobes can prevent patients from wearing earrings altogether.

Ear surgery is often a small procedure with a meaningful emotional impact. The goal is not to draw attention to the ears. The goal is to help the ears look more balanced, natural, and in harmony with the rest of the face.

What Is Ear Surgery?

Ear surgery is a broad term that includes procedures designed to improve the shape, position, size, or structure of the ear or earlobe. At Tansavatdi Facial Plastic Surgery, ear surgery in Thousand Oaks may include:

Otoplasty for prominent ears
Ear pinning surgery
Ear reshaping
Conchal bowl reduction
Cartilage molding with permanent sutures
Earlobe repair
Torn earlobe repair
Stretched earlobe repair
Earlobe reconstruction
Earlobe reduction for elongated earlobes
Revision of prior ear or earlobe surgery

Because each concern is different, surgical planning is customized. Some patients need cartilage reshaping. Others need earlobe reconstruction. Some need both. Dr. Kristina Tansavatdi will evaluate the ear anatomy, degree of correction needed, incision options, and whether the procedure should be performed alone, staged, or combined with another surgery such as a facelift.

Dr. Kristina Tansavatdi Talks: Ear Reconstruction Surgery

Otoplasty for Prominent or Protruding Ears

Otoplasty is a surgical procedure that reshapes or repositions the external ear. It is commonly performed to correct prominent ears, protruding ears, underdeveloped ear folds, asymmetry, or a conchal bowl that causes the ear to project too far from the head. Otoplasty can be performed at almost any age once the ears have developed enough for surgery, often around age five or six.

While Tansavatdi Facial Plastic Surgery primarily serves adult women, otoplasty in Thousand Oaks may also be appropriate for younger patients when carefully evaluated. For adults, otoplasty can be especially meaningful for patients who have spent years avoiding certain hairstyles, feeling self-conscious in photos, or wishing their ears sat closer to the head.

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Otoplasty Techniques

Dr. Kristina Tansavatdi customizes otoplasty based on the specific reason the ears appear prominent or misshapen. Ear prominence may be caused by an underdeveloped antihelical fold, an enlarged conchal bowl, or a combination of both. Depending on your anatomy, otoplasty may include:

Permanent suture contouring

Permanent sutures may be used to mold the cartilage and create or strengthen the natural fold of the ear. This helps the ear sit in a more natural position while preserving a soft, realistic shape.

Conchal bowl reduction

If the conchal bowl is too large or deep, it can push the ear outward. In these cases, Dr. Tansavatdi may reduce or reposition this portion of cartilage to bring the ear closer to the head.

Combination otoplasty

Some patients need both suture contouring and conchal bowl reduction to achieve the most balanced result.

Isolated correction

Other patients may only need one technique, such as suture contouring alone or conchal bowl reduction alone.

The goal of otoplasty is not to flatten the ears unnaturally against the head. The goal is to create a more balanced ear position and contour that looks natural from the front, side, and back.

Lobuloplasty: Earlobe Repair, Reconstruction, and Reduction

Lobuloplasty is surgery of the earlobe. It may be performed to repair a torn earlobe, reconstruct a stretched piercing, reduce an elongated earlobe, or improve the shape of the earlobe after trauma, aging, or long-term earring use. Earlobe concerns are especially common in women who have worn earrings for many years. Over time, heavy earrings, repeated pulling, natural aging, and collagen loss can cause the earlobes to stretch, thin, elongate, or tear.

Lobuloplasty may address:

Torn earlobes
Split earlobes
Stretched piercing holes
Enlarged piercing openings
Elongated earlobes from aging
Thin or deflated earlobes
Earlobes stretched by heavy earrings
Asymmetry between the earlobes
Earlobe shape concerns after prior repair

Unlike otoplasty, which focuses on the cartilage and position of the ear, lobuloplasty focuses on the soft tissue of the earlobe.

Earlobe Reduction for Aging Earlobes

As the face ages, the earlobes can also change. They may become longer, thinner, heavier, or less supportive. For some women, elongated earlobes become more noticeable after facial rejuvenation, especially when the jawline and neck are restored. Earlobe reduction can shorten and reshape the earlobe to create a more refined, balanced appearance. This procedure is commonly performed at the same time as facelift surgery, though it may also be performed on its own. Dr. Kristina Tansavatdi customizes the incision pattern and reduction technique based on the degree of elongation, the quality of the tissue, the location of any piercing, and the desired final shape.

Earlobe Repair for Torn or Stretched Piercings

Torn or stretched earlobes can occur from years of earring wear, trauma, heavy jewelry, or gradual thinning of the earlobe tissue. Some patients have a fully split earlobe, while others have an enlarged or stretched piercing hole that makes earrings droop or sit unevenly. Earlobe repair is designed to remove weakened tissue and reconstruct the earlobe in a more stable shape. The location and design of the incision depend on the defect, the amount of tissue involved, and the degree of reconstruction needed. In some cases, the earlobe may be repierced after healing, once Dr. Tansavatdi confirms that the tissue is strong enough and appropriately healed.

The Tansavatdi Difference

At Tansavatdi Facial Plastic Surgery, ear surgery in Westlake Village is approached with the same philosophy that guides every facial procedure: restoration, natural-looking refinement, and individualized planning. Dr. Kristina Tansavatdi is a double board-certified, fellowship-trained facial plastic surgeon who specializes in the face and neck. Her understanding of facial balance, aging, and surgical detail allows her to approach ear surgery with nuance, whether she is correcting prominent ears, repairing stretched earlobes, or reducing elongated earlobes as part of a facelift plan.

The practice’s core philosophy is centered on helping women feel seen, heard, and understood while creating results that honor identity rather than changing it. Ear surgery may be a smaller procedure, but it still deserves thoughtful planning. Dr. Tansavatdi considers the patient’s hairstyle, jewelry preferences, facial proportions, age-related changes, and whether the procedure is being performed alone or as part of a larger facial rejuvenation plan.

What to Expect From Your Ear Surgery

Confirming Your Candidacy

Your consultation begins with a detailed conversation with Dr. Kristina Tansavatdi. She will listen to your concerns, evaluate the shape and structure of your ears or earlobes, and determine whether otoplasty, lobuloplasty, earlobe reduction, or another approach is most appropriate. For otoplasty, she will assess the cartilage, ear projection, antihelical fold, conchal bowl, symmetry, and relationship of the ears to the head. For lobuloplasty, she will evaluate the earlobe shape, tissue quality, piercing location, degree of stretching or tearing, and the amount of reconstruction or reduction needed. From there, she will create a customized surgical plan based on your anatomy and goals.

Designed for Your Comfort

Ear surgery is typically performed in a comfortable surgical setting using local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia depending on the procedure, patient age, and complexity of the correction. Lobuloplasty and earlobe reduction are often performed with local anesthesia. Otoplasty may be performed with local anesthesia or general anesthesia depending on the patient and surgical plan. Our all-female team will guide you through what to expect before, during, and after your procedure so you feel informed and supported.

Surgical Plans Tailored to You

No two ear surgeries are exactly the same. For otoplasty, Dr. Tansavatdi may use permanent sutures to shape the ear cartilage, reduce the conchal bowl, or combine techniques to achieve a natural ear position. Incisions are commonly placed behind the ear where they are well concealed. For lobuloplasty, the incision pattern depends on the specific concern. A torn earlobe, stretched piercing, enlarged hole, or elongated earlobe each requires a different repair or reduction design. Dr. Tansavatdi will determine the safest and most effective approach based on the tissue and the degree of correction needed.

Combining Ear Surgery With Facelift Surgery

Lobuloplasty is commonly performed at the same time as facelift surgery, especially when the earlobes have become elongated, stretched, or aged in appearance. Refining the earlobe during facelift surgery can help create a more complete and natural-looking rejuvenation.

Otoplasty may also be performed at the same time as a facelift in select patients, though some patients may benefit from staging the procedure separately. Dr. Kristina Tansavatdi will discuss whether combining procedures is appropriate based on your anatomy, surgical goals, recovery plan, and overall safety.

“Dr. Tansavatdi and her staff are incredible! I was very nervous about getting rhinoplasty and when I found Dr. T, she made me feel so comfortable. From the consultation to the post op appointments, she is there to answer any questions. Sarah and Yvonne were amazing and helped me...

Ashley S.

"I initially went to meet with Dr. Tansavatdi because she had gotten excellent Yelp reviews. So now I'll pay it forward to someone else trying to find a good plastic surgeon.

I was impressed from the first visit. She took time to understand my goals and reasons for want...

S.M.

"I cannot possibly find enough good things to say about Doctor T and her entire staff. Dr. T did a rhinoplasty and deep neck lift for me. The results are outstanding. She is so knowledgeable and professional. She pays the very most attention to detail. She is kind and she is a...

Jordan B.

This review is from my mother Rose who recently had a comprehensive facelift and both a upper and lower eyelid lift. She found Dr. T through Yelp based on all her fantastic reviews and honestly couldn't agree more. Dr. T is professional, thorough, understanding and makes sure ...

Abby B.

“I have worked with many surgeons as an RN. I wouldn’t go to anyone else for my face! I am almost one year post op and look great.”

Dana K.

“Let me start off by saying that I have used three other plastic surgeons for various procedures. Not only is Dr. Tansavatdi an excellent surgeon, she is great at all cosmetic procedures. She is kind, professional, and knowledgeable, while at the same time being warm and caring. ...

Agourasue

“I wanted to improve my breathing and to fix my crooked nose, and Dr. T went above and beyond to make me feel at ease throughout the entire rhinoplasty process from our consultation to the post surgery follow ups. I chose Dr. Tansavatdi because she makes sure you are at a complet...

Asquire29

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Usermary

“I cannot praise Dr. Tansavatdi and her entire team enough. I had an amazing experience since the moment I arrived to her office for a consultation. Everyone is very warm and genuine, and I do value that very much. She performed a rhinoplasty and I couldn’t be any happier with th...

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“I was looking to improve the bump in my nose by using injectable fillers. From the first time I called, the girls in Dr. Tansavatdi’s office were warm, patient, and so helpful! As soon as I met Dr. Tansavatdi and talked to her, I knew she would be able to give me the best experi...

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"Dr. Tans did an amazing job on my upper/lower eyelid surgery! I’m so pleased and happy at how it turned out. Dr. Tans and her staff were wonderful and treated me with kindness and respect. I totally trust her and will definitely be back for another procedure! Thank you for gi...

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"I just loved Dr. T and her team. Everyone is wonderful and really care about their patients. I am 57 and got an endoscopic deep plane facelift with fat transfer, underbleph and eye brow lift and i am very happy with the results. It has been a month and so far so good. No pain...

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Recovery After Ear Surgery

Recovery depends on whether you undergo otoplasty, lobuloplasty, earlobe reduction, or a combined procedure. After otoplasty, the ears are usually protected with a bandage or dressing to help minimize swelling and support the new ear position.

Mild swelling, tenderness, tightness, or sensitivity is expected during early healing. Patients are typically advised to avoid pressure on the ears, contact sports, over-ear headphones, and sleeping directly on the ears during recovery. After lobuloplasty or earlobe reduction, recovery is usually more limited. Patients may experience mild swelling, tenderness, bruising, or tightness at the repair site. Heavy earrings should be avoided during healing, and repiercing should only be considered once the earlobe has fully healed and Dr. Tansavatdi confirms it is safe. Most patients return to many normal daily activities within several days to one week, depending on the procedure performed.

Personalized Post-Operative Care

After your procedure, our team will provide customized aftercare instructions based on your surgical plan. Your instructions may include:

Incision care
Dressing or bandage guidance
Cleaning protocols
Activity restrictions
Sleep position recommendations
Swelling and discomfort management
When to avoid earrings or headphones
When sutures may be removed, if applicable
When to return for follow-up visits
When repiercing may be considered after lobuloplasty

Dr. Tansavatdi and her team will monitor your healing and guide you through each stage of recovery.

Results That Look Natural and Balanced

Ear surgery results are designed to be subtle, balanced, and long-lasting. After otoplasty, the ears should sit in a more natural position with improved shape and symmetry. Final results become more visible as swelling fades and the cartilage settles. After lobuloplasty or earlobe reduction, the earlobes should appear more refined, repaired, and proportionate. Scars typically fade over time and are placed as discreetly as possible based on the repair or reduction needed. The goal is not to make the ears noticeable. It is to help them blend naturally with the rest of the face.

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Ear Surgery Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between otoplasty and lobuloplasty?

Otoplasty reshapes or repositions the ear cartilage and is commonly used for prominent or protruding ears. Lobuloplasty is surgery of the earlobe and may include torn earlobe repair, stretched earlobe repair, earlobe reconstruction, or earlobe reduction.

What age can otoplasty be performed?

Otoplasty can often be performed once the ears have developed enough for surgery, commonly around age five or six. Adults can also undergo otoplasty at any age if they are healthy candidates and want to improve the shape or position of their ears.

How does Dr. Tansavatdi perform otoplasty?

Dr. Kristina Tansavatdi customizes otoplasty based on the anatomy of the ear. She may use permanent sutures to mold the cartilage and recreate the natural fold of the ear, reduce the conchal bowl if it is contributing to prominence, or combine both techniques. In some patients, only one technique is needed.

Can earlobe repair be performed with facelift surgery?

Yes. Lobuloplasty, earlobe repair, and earlobe reduction are commonly performed at the same time as facelift surgery. This can be helpful when the earlobes have become elongated, stretched, or aged in appearance.

Can otoplasty be performed with facelift surgery?

Yes, otoplasty may be performed at the same time as facelift surgery in select patients. In other cases, Dr. Tansavatdi may recommend staging the procedures separately. The decision depends on anatomy, surgical goals, safety, and recovery planning.

Do I need surgery on both ears?

Not always. Otoplasty or lobuloplasty can be performed on one or both ears depending on your anatomy and goals. Dr. Tansavatdi will design the procedure to create the most natural and balanced result possible.

Can a torn earlobe be repaired?

Yes. Torn earlobes and stretched piercing holes can often be repaired with lobuloplasty. The repair technique depends on the size, shape, and location of the defect.

Can elongated earlobes be reduced?

Yes. Earlobe reduction can shorten and reshape elongated earlobes, including earlobes that have lengthened with age or from years of earring use.

Will my scars be visible?

Incisions are placed as discreetly as possible. Otoplasty incisions are often hidden behind the ear. Lobuloplasty scars depend on the location and extent of the earlobe repair or reduction, but they typically fade over time with proper care.

Can ear surgery affect my hearing?

No. Otoplasty and lobuloplasty address the external ear or earlobe. They do not involve the inner ear, eardrum, or hearing structures.

How long do ear surgery results last?

Otoplasty and lobuloplasty results are intended to be long-lasting. Otoplasty reshapes the cartilage and repositions the ear, while lobuloplasty repairs or reshapes the earlobe. Future trauma, heavy earrings, aging, or stretching can affect the earlobe over time, so patients should follow Dr. Tansavatdi’s guidance after surgery.