Is Ear Reshaping Surgery Painful?

Most patients are pleasantly surprised to find that ear reshaping surgery involves very little pain because the procedure is performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia. Afterward, you may experience soreness or a sense of tightness around the ears as the tissues adjust to their new position. This sensation is temporary and usually well-managed with over-the-counter pain medication or short-term prescription options provided by our team.

How Many Appointments Will I Need?

Patients will have several touchpoints throughout their treatment process. You’ll start with your initial consultation, where Dr. Block-Wheeler creates your surgical plan. The pre-op visit and surgery day itself are considered your second and third appointments, followed by a first post-op visit within about a week to remove or check dressings and ensure healing is progressing properly. After that, you’ll have a follow-up visit in three to six weeks to assess your results as swelling continues to resolve. Some patients choose to schedule an additional check-in around the three-month mark for reassurance or final photos.

How Long Until I See the Results?

Results from ear reshaping surgery are visible almost immediately once the initial dressing is removed, but they continue to refine over time as swelling improves. In the first week, you’ll already see a noticeable improvement in ear projection, symmetry, and contour. As swelling diminishes and the cartilage settles, the ears will take on their final, natural appearance. Most patients achieve their optimal results within 6 to 8 weeks, although subtle refinements can continue for several months.

Can I Combine Ear Reshaping Surgery with Other Procedures?

Yes, common pairings include rhinoplasty (nose reshaping) to balance the profile, chin augmentation to enhance facial proportions, or eyelid and facelift procedures. Non-surgical treatments such as dermal fillers or laser resurfacing can also complement the results by refining the surrounding areas. Combining procedures can save recovery time and can provide a more cohesive, harmonious outcome.

What Are the Risks Associated with Ear Reshaping Surgery?

It’s important to be informed of potential concerns, which can include temporary numbness, bruising, minor asymmetry, infection, or scarring (though incisions are usually hidden behind the ear). In rare cases, there may be overcorrection or undercorrection that requires minor revision. Following all post-operative instructions greatly minimizes these risks.

Ear Reshaping Surgery in San Francisco, CA

Ear Reshaping Surgery

Introduction

Introduction to Ear Reshaping Surgery

When it comes to facial balance, even small details can make a big difference, and the ears are no exception. Ear reshaping surgery, also known as otoplasty, refines the size, shape, or projection of the ears to create better harmony with the rest of your features. Whether your ears naturally protrude, are asymmetrical, or have been affected by injury, the procedure can restore balance while helping you feel more confident in your appearance. At The Block-Wheeler Clinic in San Francisco, our approach uses a deep understanding of facial proportions to achieve results that look completely natural.

What is Ear Reshaping Surgery?

Ear reshaping surgery is a cosmetic procedure that adjusts the position, size, or shape of the ears. Depending on your anatomy and goals, this may involve repositioning the ears closer to the head, reshaping the cartilage for a more symmetrical contour, or refining an ear that appears too large. In most cases, the incisions are made discreetly behind the ear or within natural creases, minimizing visible scarring. The procedure can be performed on adults or children (usually starting around age six, when the ears are nearly fully developed) and is tailored to each individual to restore proportion, balance, and natural elegance.

A young woman with long brown hair lying on a bed in a gray ribbed shirt, gently touching her ear while looking thoughtfully off to the side, potentially contemplating ear reshaping. - Ear Reshaping Surgery in San Fransisco, CA

Who Are the Best Candidates for Ear Reshaping Surgery?

The best candidates for this procedure in San Francisco and Marin are individuals who are unhappy with the size, projection, or shape of their ears and wish to improve their overall balance. Candidates should be in good general health, non-smokers, and have realistic expectations about what surgery can achieve. Ear reshaping can benefit both adults and children once ear growth has stabilized. It’s particularly helpful for those whose ears protrude prominently, appear uneven, or have irregular folds or contours that disrupt facial harmony.

What Are the Benefits of Ear Reshaping Surgery?

The most immediate benefit of ear reshaping surgery is improved facial harmony: ears that complement rather than distract from your natural features. Many patients also experience a powerful emotional benefit: increased confidence and comfort in social settings, hairstyles, and photography. Children may avoid teasing for ears that stick out. Physically, the procedure can correct deformities caused by genetics, trauma, or prior surgery, and can be performed on one or both ears to achieve symmetry.

Dr. Block-Wheeler, wearing a blazer, descends a grand, carpeted staircase while holding a briefcase. - First Step in San Fransisco, CA

What’s the First Step?

The first step toward ear reshaping surgery is to schedule a consultation in San Francisco, during which Dr. Block-Wheeler will perform a detailed examination of your ears, discuss your aesthetic goals, and review your medical history. He’ll also show before-and-after examples to help you visualize potential results and walk you through your surgical options. Together, you’ll develop a personalized treatment plan designed to achieve balance and natural-looking refinement.

What to Expect on the Day of Ear Reshaping Surgery Treatment

On the day of surgery, you’ll be welcomed by our team and prepped for your procedure at our San Francisco office or Marin Surgery Center. This procedure is generally performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on your comfort level and the complexity of the correction. Small incisions are made behind the ear, allowing Dr. Block-Wheeler to sculpt and reposition the cartilage to achieve your desired shape and angle, and once adjustments are complete, sutures are placed to maintain the new contour as the ear heals. The procedure generally takes two to three hours, and most patients can return home the same day.

Male physician (Dr. Bock-Wheeler) in a white coat and glasses holding a mirror and a small stick, consulting with a female patient about her recovery or treatment.

Ear Reshaping Surgery Recovery

Recovery for this kind of procedure is smooth and relatively quick. A soft dressing is applied immediately after surgery to support the ears as they heal, followed by a lighter headband to wear at night for several weeks. Mild swelling and bruising are common during the first week but gradually fade, and most patients return to normal activities, including work or school, within 7–10 days. During your consultation or pre-operative visit, you’ll receive detailed aftercare instructions to ensure a comfortable recovery and lasting, symmetrical results.

How Much Does Ear Reshaping Surgery Cost in San Francisco?

The cost of Ear Reshaping Surgery in San Francisco varies depending on the extent of correction, surgical complexity, and whether both ears are treated. On average, patients can expect to pay several thousand dollars, which includes surgeon’s fees, anesthesia, and facility costs. A detailed quote will be provided during your consultation, and our staff can discuss financing and payment options if needed.

Dr. Block-Wheeler, in a gray blazer and glasses, stands outdoors with arms crossed, looking confidently toward the right. - Why Choose BW Clinic in San Fransisco, CA

Our Ethos

Why Choose The Block-Wheeler Clinic?

The Block-Wheeler Clinic stands apart for its comprehensive approach to both form and function. Dr. Nikolas Block-Wheeler is a plastic surgeon specializing in Otolaryngology (ENT) – Head & Neck Plastic Surgery, and Facial Plastic Surgery, uniquely qualified to blend aesthetic refinement with deep anatomical expertise. He also has experience building entire ears for children born with malformed ears, known as microtia. His particular technique ensures not only natural-looking results but also preservation of ear structure and comfort. Our San Francisco practice emphasizes safety, transparency, and compassionate care, with a commitment to helping every patient look and feel their best with confidence.

Ear Reshaping Surgery FAQ’S

Most patients are pleasantly surprised to find that ear reshaping surgery involves very little pain because the procedure is performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia. Afterward, you may experience soreness or a sense of tightness around the ears as the tissues adjust to their new position. This sensation is temporary and usually well-managed with over-the-counter pain medication or short-term prescription options provided by our team.
Patients will have several touchpoints throughout their treatment process. You’ll start with your initial consultation, where Dr. Block-Wheeler creates your surgical plan. The pre-op visit and surgery day itself are considered your second and third appointments, followed by a first post-op visit within about a week to remove or check dressings and ensure healing is progressing properly. After that, you’ll have a follow-up visit in three to six weeks to assess your results as swelling continues to resolve. Some patients choose to schedule an additional check-in around the three-month mark for reassurance or final photos.
Results from ear reshaping surgery are visible almost immediately once the initial dressing is removed, but they continue to refine over time as swelling improves. In the first week, you’ll already see a noticeable improvement in ear projection, symmetry, and contour. As swelling diminishes and the cartilage settles, the ears will take on their final, natural appearance. Most patients achieve their optimal results within 6 to 8 weeks, although subtle refinements can continue for several months.
Yes, common pairings include rhinoplasty (nose reshaping) to balance the profile, chin augmentation to enhance facial proportions, or eyelid and facelift procedures. Non-surgical treatments such as dermal fillers or laser resurfacing can also complement the results by refining the surrounding areas. Combining procedures can save recovery time and can provide a more cohesive, harmonious outcome.
It’s important to be informed of potential concerns, which can include temporary numbness, bruising, minor asymmetry, infection, or scarring (though incisions are usually hidden behind the ear). In rare cases, there may be overcorrection or undercorrection that requires minor revision. Following all post-operative instructions greatly minimizes these risks.

Patient Reviews

★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Excellent care from start to finish

I recently visited Dr. Block-Wheeler for tattoo removal and had a genuinely great experience. He explained the process clearly, worked with confidence, and made the session feel easy. The office has a warm, welcoming atmosphere that helped me relax right away. Excellent care from start to finish.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Dr. Block-Wheeler is truly amazing. He listened carefully to my concerns and made me feel completely at ease.

He never pressured me, and his honest approach gave me confidence in my decision. The results exceeded my expectations, and I couldn’t be happier.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
I felt supported every step of the way with Dr. Block-Wheeler. His kindness and professionalism made all the difference.

He explained everything clearly, ensuring I understood the process. My results are better than I imagined, and I feel like the best version of myself. I can’t thank him enough for his skill and care.

Schedule Your Consultation

If you’ve ever felt self-conscious about your ears or simply wish to create a more balanced facial profile, ear reshaping surgery at The Block-Wheeler Clinic could be the solution. Schedule your consultation today to learn more about your options and begin your personalized treatment journey with Dr. Block-Wheeler in San Francisco.

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