Subtle Refinement. Life-Changing Results.

At Setty Plastics & Aesthetics, ear surgery is about freedom: the freedom to wear your hair up, face the camera confidently, or stop thinking about how your ears look from every angle. Otoplasty offers a subtle but powerful transformation for individuals self-conscious about prominent, misshapen, or asymmetrical ears.

Dr. Michael Chung, a facial plastic surgeon educated at UT Southwestern—the nation’s top-ranked plastic surgery program—approaches ear reshaping with exceptional precision and artistry. His goal is to restore balance and proportion without calling attention to the correction itself.

What Is Ear Surgery?

The shape and position of the ears play a surprisingly influential role in overall facial balance. While often overlooked, their structure is delicate and complex, composed of flexible cartilage, soft tissue, and thin skin supported by subtle folds and curves.

Key anatomical elements that influence ear appearance include:

  • Antihelical fold: The inner curve that gives the ear its natural shape.
  • Conchal bowl: The central cup-like area that can contribute to excessive projection if enlarged.
  • Auriculocephalic angle: The angle between the ear and the scalp—wider angles can make ears appear more prominent.

When one or more of these structures develops abnormally or is impacted by injury, it can result in aesthetic or functional concerns such as:

  • Prominent ears that stick out noticeably
  • Underdeveloped or missing antihelical folds
  • Enlarged or bulging conchal bowl
  • Uneven or asymmetric ear shapes
  • Congenital deformities or deformities from past trauma or surgery

Otoplasty, also known as ear pinning or ear reshaping surgery, is a cosmetic procedure that modifies the cartilage of the ears to create a more natural contour and position. The goal is not to make the ears disappear, but to make them visually harmonious with the rest of the face.

Dr. Michael Chung performs ear reshaping surgery in McKinney through small, hidden incisions behind the ears, allowing discreet access to reshape underlying cartilage.

Depending on your specific needs, Dr. Chung may:

  • Recreate or refine the antihelical fold using internal sutures
  • Reduce the size or projection of the conchal bowl
  • Bring the ears closer to the scalp for improved proportion
  • Correct irregularities from injury, congenital conditions, or prior surgery
Young woman with hair tied back looks at the camera in a studio shoot. Her symmetrical ears show the potential results of ear surgery in McKinney

Benefits of our Ear Surgery

    • Reduces ear protrusion for a more balanced profile
    • Improves facial symmetry and harmony
    • Corrects ear shape, size, or congenital irregularities
    • Enhances self-confidence at any age
    • Allows children and teens to avoid teasing or self-consciousness
    • Results are permanent and noticeable—yet discreet
    • Scars are hidden in natural folds behind the ear

    Am I a Good Candidate for Ear Pinning?

    You or your child may be a good candidate for ear surgery if:

    • The ears are fully developed (typically age 5+)
    • You have prominent, misshapen, or asymmetric ears
    • You are in good general health, with no untreated ear infections or chronic conditions
    • You do not smoke or are willing to stop temporarily for optimal healing
    • You have realistic expectations and a desire for natural-looking results
    • You want to correct an ear deformity due to birth, injury, or previous surgery

    Why Choose Setty Plastics & Aesthetics?

    Facial balance requires more than technical skill—it demands aesthetic intuition. Dr. Michael Chung, one of the region’s most extensively trained facial plastic surgeons, brings both. With specialized training in facial anatomy and years of experience in reconstructive and cosmetic ear surgery, he performs each procedure with the finesse of a true craftsman.

    At our AAAASF-accredited surgical center, safety is prioritized at every step, from our expert anesthesia team to our advanced monitoring technology. We provide discreet, individualized care in a private setting where your comfort and confidence come first.

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    What to Expect During Your McKinny Consultation for Ear Surgery

    A personalized consultation with Dr. Chung includes:

    • Detailed evaluation of ear shape, cartilage structure, and projection
    • Review of medical history, prior surgeries, or trauma
    • Age-appropriate recommendations for children, teens, or adults
    • Honest discussion of surgical options, risks, and outcomes
    • Customized plan designed for subtle, natural correction

    The cost of our ear surgery in McKinney typically ranges from $6,000 to $9,000, depending on the case's complexity and whether one or both ears are addressed. During your consultation, you’ll receive a personalized quote, financing options, and pre- and post-op instructions.

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    Young woman with hair flowing in her face has eyes closed and smiling in a studio shoot. Her symmetrical ears show the potential results of ear surgery in McKinney

    Ear Surgery Procedure

    Ear reshaping surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation for adults, or general anesthesia for children.

    The procedure usually takes 1 to 2 hours. Dr. Chung begins by making a discreet incision behind the ear to reshape or reposition the cartilage as needed. Next, he uses internal sutures to maintain the new contour, then closes incisions with fine sutures placed for minimal visibility.

    Recovery and Results

    • First 3 days: Compression dressing worn; ears may feel tight or tender.
    • 1 week: Dressing replaced with lighter band; most swelling subsides.
    • 2 weeks: Return to work or school; activity restrictions lifted gradually.
    • 6+ weeks: Final shape stabilizes; incisions heal beautifully.
    • Permanent Results: The new ear position is long-lasting and stable over time.

    Recovery and Results

    • Days 1–5: Swelling, bruising, tightness, and mild discomfort.
    • 1 week: Sutures removed; bruising starts to fade.
    • 2–3 weeks: Return to light social activities.
    • 6 weeks: Noticeably improved contour and skin tone.
    • 3–6 months: Final results become fully apparent as tissue settles.
    • 12+ months: Results continue to age naturally, maintaining long-term definition. With proper care, neck lift results can last 10 years or more, especially when paired with sun protection and a healthy lifestyle.
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    Woman with full makeup shows jaw and ear in a tight face camera shot. The attention on the ear is to show the potential results of an ear surgery in McKinney

    Complementary Procedures

    Depending on your aesthetic goals, ear surgery (otoplasty) in McKinney may be combined with other procedures to achieve balanced, harmonious facial results. Pairing McKinney ear surgery with complementary treatments can enhance overall facial symmetry and refine your features. Common combinations include:

    • Chin augmentation for enhanced facial balance
    • Rhinoplasty for comprehensive profile refinement
    • Scar revision from previous trauma or ear piercings
    • Earlobe repair or reduction for stretched or torn lobes

    Ear Surgery FAQ

    What are the risks associated with a neck lift?

    Will a neck lift improve my double chin, or is liposuction better?

    Will I have visible scars after a neck lift?

    How long before I can return to work or social activities?

    Can a neck lift help with a "tech neck" or creases from posture?

    Will a neck lift affect my ability to turn or move my head?

    What are the risks associated with a neck lift?

    As with any surgical procedure, neck lifts carry risks. Potential complications include:

    • Hematoma (a collection of blood under the skin)
    • Infection
    • Temporary or prolonged numbness
    • Unfavorable scarring
    • Nerve injury affecting muscle movement
    • Asymmetry
    Such risks are minimized through advanced techniques, meticulous planning, and postoperative monitoring in a fully accredited surgical environment.

    Will a neck lift improve my double chin, or is liposuction better?

    It depends on what’s contributing to your double chin. If fullness is due to fat alone, chin liposuction may be sufficient. However, if you also have skin laxity or muscle banding, a neck lift is often the better—and longer-lasting—solution. Dr. Chung frequently combines both procedures for a sculpted, seamless result.

    Will I have visible scars after a neck lift?

    Dr. Chung strategically places incisions behind the ears and under the chin, ensuring they blend into natural creases. With careful closure and scar care guidance, most patients see their scars fade to near invisibility over time.

    How long before I can return to work or social activities?

    Most patients resume light activities within 2–3 weeks, depending on their surgery and healing. Bruising and swelling usually decrease by then and can be covered with makeup. Dr. Chung will create a personalized recovery plan based on your role and comfort level.

    Can a neck lift help with a "tech neck" or creases from posture?

    Yes—often to a meaningful degree. Deep horizontal creases from posture and device use (commonly called “tech neck”) can be softened by tightening the skin and underlying muscles. For more etched-in lines or textural concerns, Dr. Chung may recommend complementary treatments. In select cases, he performs nanofat grafting to transverse cervical lines, which delivers regenerative cells to improve skin quality and smooth persistent creases. Additional therapies, such as laser resurfacing or injectables, may also be combined with surgery for the most refined outcome.

    Will a neck lift affect my ability to turn or move my head?

    Temporary tightness or stiffness is normal during early recovery as healing occurs. Once healed, you’ll regain full range of motion with improved comfort and contour. Dr. Chung skillfully repositions tissues without over-tightening, ensuring optimal aesthetics and function.

    Sculpted for Symmetry. Crafted for Confidence.

    When ears feel out of proportion, it can affect how you show up in the world. Schedule your private consultation with Dr. Michael Chung at Setty Plastics & Aesthetics and experience expert care that’s as thoughtful as it is transformative.

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