1 – What does otoplasty involve?

Otoplasty is cosmetic surgery for the correction of protruding ears. Skin and cartilage are removed from behind the ears, following which they are then sculpted to pin them back toward the head. Stitches may be used to help maintain the new shape with the incision marks cleverly concealed in the natural crease behind the ear.

2 – From what age is otoplasty possible?

This procedure can be done from the age of seven years; the age at which the ear reaches its adult size.

3 – How long does the operation take?

Otoplasty procedure takes about an hour.

4 – What is the length of the stay at the clinic?

The surgery is ambulatory (in and out the same day).

5 – What form of sedation is necessary for otoplasty?

Depending on what surgical acts need to be performed the anesthesia can be general or local. The use of simple sedation is also possible in some cases.

6 – What scars result from otoplasty?

The scar from otoplasty is situated in the natural crease behind the ear. It is therefore hidden.

7 – What are the risks inherent to otoplasty surgery?

Performed by a certified plastic surgeon qualified in plastic, cosmetic and reconstructive surgery in a certified plastic surgery clinic, otoplasty is commonly practiced and is considered a safe operation. Like in all surgery complications are possible but rare. These are listed in the information flyer of the French Society for Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery. If properly managed, complications leave little or no trace. Post operation monitoring is therefore indispensable. Dr Louafi takes care of the post-operative monitoring of his patients.

Specific risks will be detailed and explained during the consultation.

8 – We would like for our child to have corrective ear surgery done but he is against it. What do you suggest?

This surgery is usually done to correct the shape of the ear that may lead to teasing or bullying in school. Children usually express embarrassment about the shape of their ears and the difficulties they face at school. The surgery should however be performed in response to the child’s desire. Otoplasty is considered reparative surgery and can be partially covered by the social security.

9 – Does the social security cover otoplasty?

Otoplasty can be partially covered by the social security in some cases particularly those involving young children. Only the surgeon is authorized to present your case for reimbursement. In this case the clinical charges will be fully paid by the social security. You will be left with the complementary surgeon’s and anaesthetist’s fees, which may be fully paid by your mutuelle depending on your contract with them.

10 – How much does otoplasty cost?

The rates for otoplasty vary depending on the how much needs to be done, mode of anaesthesia and its charges, the clinical charges, the length of the stay in the clinic, the qualifications of the surgeon, the charges of the surgeon and the anaesthetist among others. Very high quotes on the one hand do not necessarily guarantee the best results and suspiciously low quotes on the other hand should incite caution. It is of utmost importance to always verify the qualifications and competences of the plastic surgeon, his titles, his cv, his certification by the board, his ability to practice, what post operation care is included in his quote (who by, where, for how long…).Plastic surgery is strictly regulated in France. It is therefore very easy to get information about a surgeon before undertaking this important surgery that involves the face.

In the case of partial cover by the social security, the cost of surgical fees vary (from 1700 euros) and may be fully paid by your mutuelle depending on the contract with them even if the surgery takes place in a private clinic.

As an indication, otoplasty fees start at 1700 euros. The personal quote concerning the procedure that is given to the patient during pre-operation consultation is contractual and binding. The cost of a medical rhinoplasty starts from 1500 euros.

Please find all the rates for cosmetic surgery with Dr Louafi on this website. (Estimated rates from…).