There's a moment, maybe in the mirror, maybe in a photo, when you realize it's all you see: your ears. They stick out more than you'd like. Maybe it's something you've felt self-conscious about for years, or maybe your child is starting to face teasing at school. At Athré Facial Plastics in Houston, we understand that prominent ears aren't just a cosmetic concern; they can shape the way you move through the world. Dr. Raghu Athré, a board-certified facial plastic surgeon, offers personalized, natural-looking solutions through ear pinning and reshaping procedures to restore balance and confidence.
At our office in Houston prominent ears, sometimes called shell ear, cupped ear, or protruding ears, are a type of congenital ear deformity common in both children and adults. Generally speaking, the ears stick out from the head due to overly large ear cartilage, a weak or underdeveloped antihelix (the natural fold of the ear), or an excess of auricular cartilage. While it's not a health risk, prominent ears can lead to self‑consciousness, teasing, or emotional distress:
At Athré Facial Plastics, we address these common concerns through personalized cosmetic ear surgery (otoplasty procedure) that rebalances the ears.
Otoplasty is cosmetic ear surgery aimed at correcting protruding ears. This outpatient procedure reshapes or removes excess ear cartilage to bring ears within a typical range of "ears reach," usually about 1 to 1.5 centimeters from the side of the head.
At Athré Facial Plastics in Houston, TX, Dr. Raghu Athré is a board‑certified plastic surgeon specializing in otoplasty, more commonly known as ear pinning surgery or ear reshaping. If you or your child is self‑conscious about ears that protrude farther than normal, Dr. Athré can correct protruding ears through this safe and effective procedure.
Dr. Athré's method retains the soft tissue and natural cartilage that creates an organic ear shape. By reshaping the antihelix and adjusting the conchal bowl, he provides permanent results that don't feel artificial, ideal for both younger patients and most adults alike.
Prominent ears can draw unwanted attention and become a lifelong source of discomfort. Otoplasty offers a way to change that, quietly and permanently. The procedure reduces how far the ears stick out and restores more typical proportions so they no longer dominate your appearance. Results are subtle, balanced, and tailored to each individual.
What patients often gain from ear pinning surgery:
Prominent ears are often visible early in childhood and can become a growing concern over time. For some, the appearance of the ears causes real emotional stress, especially when paired with teasing or negative attention. Others may simply want a more balanced look. Otoplasty is appropriate for many people in both groups.
You may be a good candidate if:
A few reasons otoplasty may not be right for you:
Dr. Athré will walk you through all these considerations during your consultation and recommend the safest path forward based on your health, goals, and anatomy.
Every otoplasty at Athré Facial Plastics begins with an in-depth consultation. Dr. Athré will assess your ear cartilage and overall facial structure, discuss your goals, and walk you through the details of your personalized treatment plan. You’ll also talk about anesthesia options, local or general, depending on your needs and comfort level.
Once surgery is scheduled, our team will provide you with clear pre-operative instructions to ensure a smooth and safe experience. These typically include avoiding blood-thinning medications like aspirin or certain supplements in the days leading up to your procedure. If general anesthesia is being used, you’ll need to fast for a set period before surgery.
Otoplasty is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under either local or general anesthesia, depending on your age and preferences. The surgery is usually completed in under two hours.
Here’s what to expect during the procedure:
This approach minimizes visible scarring and allows most patients to return home the same day. The result is a more proportionate, natural ear shape that blends comfortably with your facial features.
After ear pinning surgery, most patients experience:
Your treating doctor will provide guidance on sleeping positions, headbands, and gradual activity increases. Most patients, whether kids or adults, find the downtime manageable within a few weeks.
The cost of ear pinning surgery, or otoplasty, at Athré Facial Plastics depends on several factors. Pricing varies based on the complexity of the ear deformity, including the amount of cartilage that needs to be removed or reshaped, as well as whether local or general anesthesia is used.
Because each otoplasty procedure is tailored to the individual, total costs can differ from one patient to the next. In the Houston area, our pricing remains competitive while maintaining the highest standards of safety, comfort, and aesthetic excellence. We also offer flexible payment plans and financing options to help make this treatment more accessible.
When it comes to cosmetic procedures for prominent ears, especially otoplasty surgery, experience matters. Dr. Raghu Athré is:
Above all, Dr. Athré approaches every procedure he delivers as an opportunity to build confidence, erase self‑consciousness, and complete your sense of balance.
Don’t let prominent ears in Houston hold you or your child back. Contact Athré Facial Plastics now to schedule your initial consultation. Dr. Athré will evaluate your ears, discuss your concerns, and walk you through a personalized treatment plan for a safe, effective, and beautiful outcome. Call today at 281-557-3223 or request your consultation online.
Typically, no. Most patients experience only mild postoperative pain managed by prescribed pain medication, with many reporting little discomfort.
Although rare, possible complications include infection, bleeding, asymmetry, issues with sutures, or unfavorable healing.
Ear pinning is permanent, although otoplasty revision surgery is possible in rare cases to fine‑tune results.
Yes, the reshaped cartilage holds position for life, creating stable, natural-looking ears.
Most patients return to everyday life within seven to ten days. Healing continues over four to six weeks, with ears fully settled by three months.
