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Whether caused by genetics, injury, or aging, issues like prominent ears, torn lobes, or stretched earlobes can affect both appearance and confidence. At Snyder Plastic Surgery, Dr. Ned Snyder offers customized ear surgery solutions to address a variety of cosmetic and functional concerns. From subtle reshaping to complete ear pinning or earlobe repair, each procedure is tailored to help you feel more confident and balanced.

What Is Ear Surgery (Otoplasty)?

Otoplasty refers to a group of surgical procedures designed to improve the appearance or function of the ears. Depending on the concern, ear surgery may involve pinning prominent ears closer to the head, repairing torn or stretched lobes, or reducing overly large earlobes for a more balanced appearance.

These procedures are typically performed on an outpatient basis under local or general anesthesia and can deliver dramatic aesthetic improvements with minimal downtime. At Snyder Plastic Surgery, Dr. Snyder ensures that each ear surgery is discreet, effective, and aligned with the patient’s natural features.

Who Is a Candidate for Ear Surgery?

Ear surgery, also known as otoplasty, is appropriate for individuals of all ages who are concerned with the shape, position, or proportion of their ears. You may be a good candidate if you:

  • Have prominent ears that stick out noticeably from the head
  • Suffer from torn or stretched earlobes due to trauma, earrings, or gauges
  • Have large or elongated earlobes that appear disproportionate
  • Feel self-conscious about your ear appearance or have experienced teasing or bullying
  • Are in good overall health and have realistic expectations about surgical outcomes

Otoplasty is frequently performed on children as well as adults. Dr. Snyder provides individualized recommendations based on anatomy, goals, and age.

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our reputation Reviews & Opinions Of Existing Patients

patient reviews

Dr. Ned Snyder and his team are amazing! Very pleased with Lipo results. Highly recommended! I still remember receiving flower bouquet from Snyder team the next day to wish well recovery! Very thoughtful during the recovery time! Hope I won’t need a Lipo again but if I do I know where to go! Thank you Dr. Snyder!! – Ruzanna Minasyan

Jennifer Mixson is a wonderful care giver. She is kind, caring and has your best interests at heart. Jennifer is knowledgeable, professional, responsive and I always learn a lot from her. I am grateful for her gentle, personalized care. Jennifer has a great gift of always making me feel better! I highly recommend her. – Linda Daylamani

Dr. Snyder and his team were outstanding from the consult to post surgery! They made me feel comfortable from the very beginning. I would most definitely recommend him to anyone of my friends and family! – Jessica Reyes

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Types of Ear Surgery Procedures

Ear surgery isn’t one-size-fits-all. Dr. Snyder offers several targeted procedures to address different cosmetic or functional ear concerns:

Otoplasty (Ear Pinning)

Ideal for children or adults with ears that protrude significantly. This procedure brings the ears closer to the head and creates a more balanced facial profile.

Torn Earlobe Repair

This quick procedure is commonly requested by patients with earlobes torn from earrings or trauma. It restores structure and allows for re-piercing after healing.

Earlobe Reduction

Suitable for patients with overly large or stretched lobes due to aging, genetics, or gauges. Reducing the size of the lobes can dramatically improve proportions.

Stretched Piercing Correction

For lobes that have become misshapen due to heavy earrings or plugs, this minor procedure repairs and reshapes the piercing area.

Dr. Snyder will evaluate your anatomy and goals during your consultation to recommend the most appropriate technique.

Surgical Technique: How the Procedure Works

Dr. Snyder utilizes advanced techniques tailored to the specific concerns of each patient to achieve the most natural-looking and symmetrical results.

Torn Earlobe Repair: Often caused by trauma or heavy earrings, a torn earlobe is repaired by excising the damaged edges and meticulously suturing the tissue to restore shape and strength.

Otoplasty (Ear Pinning): For prominent ears, Dr. Snyder makes an incision behind the ear to access and reshape the cartilage. Sutures are used to reposition the ear closer to the scalp, creating a more proportional contour.

Earlobe Reduction: If the earlobes are enlarged or elongated, a small portion of tissue is removed, and the remaining lobe is reshaped for improved size, symmetry, and proportion.

All incisions are placed discreetly, and Dr. Snyder takes care to preserve natural folds and contours while minimizing scarring.

The Ear Surgery Process

Ear surgery isn’t one-size-fits-all. Dr. Snyder offers several targeted procedures to address different cosmetic or functional ear concerns:

What to Expect: Step-by-Step

Your consultation includes a full evaluation of ear anatomy and a detailed discussion of your goals. Dr. Snyder explains the surgical technique, incision locations, and recovery process. You’ll also receive personalized pre-operative instructions.

On the day of your procedure, anesthesia is administered for comfort. Dr. Snyder performs the necessary corrections—whether cartilage reshaping, earlobe repair, or reduction—and closes the incisions with fine sutures. Surgery typically takes 1 to 2 hours, depending on the complexity.

Swelling, mild bruising, and discomfort are common during early recovery. Patients are advised to keep their heads elevated and avoid pressure on the ears. Most individuals return to work or school within a week, although full healing may take several weeks. Follow-up visits with Dr. Snyder help ensure optimal healing and results.

Why Choose Snyder Plastic Surgery for Your Ear Surgery?

At Snyder Plastic Surgery, we believe in providing subtle, natural enhancements that align with your goals. Dr. Ned Snyder is a board-certified plastic surgeon with a reputation for precision, artistry, and compassion. Patients choose our practice for:

  • Customized treatment plans for each ear surgery case
  • Expert surgical technique and discreet incision placement
  • A welcoming, patient-centered environment
  • Consistent results and long-term patient satisfaction

Whether you’re seeking ear pinning, lobe repair, or reduction, Snyder Plastic Surgery offers trusted care for patients throughout Austin, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Waco, and Temple, TX.


Frequently Asked Questions About Ear Surgery

At what age can a child get otoplasty?

Otoplasty can be safely performed on children as young as 5 or 6 years old, once the ears have fully developed. Early correction can prevent teasing and build confidence.

Will I have visible scars after ear surgery?

Incisions are placed behind the ear or within natural creases, making scars virtually invisible. With proper care, scars typically fade significantly over time.

Can I wear earrings again after earlobe repair?

Yes, once fully healed (usually within 6–8 weeks), the earlobe can often be re-pierced. Dr. Snyder can guide you on timing and placement for best results.

Is ear surgery painful?

Most patients experience only mild discomfort during recovery. Pain is typically managed with over-the-counter or prescribed medication.

How long do results last?

Results from ear surgery are permanent. Whether cartilage is reshaped or lobes are repaired, the improvements are designed to last a lifetime.


Schedule a Consultation 

If you’re ready to correct torn earlobes, reduce prominent ears, or improve overall ear symmetry, ear surgery with Dr. Snyder can help. We provide discreet, effective care in a welcoming environment where your goals are heard and respected.

Schedule your consultation at Snyder Plastic Surgery in Austin or Round Rock, TX, and take the next step toward a more balanced, confident appearance.

learn more Additonal Information

For additional information about our services, procedures, and the patient experience at Snyder Plastic Surgery, please explore our website or contact our office. We are committed to providing comprehensive care and support from the initial consultation through recovery. Schedule a consultation today to begin your journey towards a more confident and beautiful you.