THE PROCEDURE

WHAT is Otoplasty?

To correct protruding ears and other deformities while creating a natural, un-operated look.

THE SURGERY

Incisions are made behind the ears and excess skin and soft tissue is trimmed away. Stitches are placed in the cartilage to create folds that were not originally there. If needed, small adjustments to the helix or lobe are made to yield the best results.

THE CHALLENGES

Chance of thickened scars is more common in Black or Asian patients.

Loss of correction, especially if the ears are traumatized before completely healing.

Absolute symmetry is rarely achievable, especially since there is usually some preoperative asymmetry.

DOWN TIME

Otoplasty takes approximately 2 hours and can be performed at the hospital under general anesthesia.

Discharged the same day, adults and children must wear a turban-like dressing the first day after surgery. Once the turban is removed, an exercise headband is worn while sleeping for another 2 weeks.

Adults can resume normal activities within 1 day of surgery. Children can return to school after 1 week. Both should avoid strenuous activities for 3 weeks, as well as contact sports for 6 weeks.

THE GOALS

Sets protruding ears closer to the head for a more attractive look and correct misshapen, uneven, large or floppy ears.

Allows patients to wear hair short or pulled up and restores their confidence.

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS

Whether one or both ears require correction.

Age. (Ear cartilage must be fully formed and firm - which usually happens by age 5 - for surgery to take place.)

The level of concern for both children and parents.

RESULTS

BEFORE AND AFTER

REVIEWS

FEATURED testimonials

"I am very happy with the results."

“Prior to the consultation, I was very uneasy about getting fillers in my cheeks because I didn’t want to look unnatural or feminine. Dr. Zimm senses my concerns and was very patient…before leaving his office, I knew exactly what to expect over the next few days after the injection. All in all, I am very happy with the results and I’m glad I found Dr. Zimm’s office.”

"My breathing is significantly improved and the cosmetic portion was beautifully done."

“…As a healthcare provider myself, I have worked with many physicians over the years and I can attest to his competence and professionalism. His practice is extremely well run and his excellent bedside manner, astute medical knowledge and involvement in the latest research put me at ease and allowed for me to completely trust his abilities… His passion for his field of work is evident, and I am extremely satisfied with the outcome of my sinus reconstruction and rhinoplasty -- my breathing is significantly improved and the cosmetic portion is beautifully done.”

"World-class Surgeon with a Small-town Manner"

“I was really impressed by how much he knew about state-of-the art surgical techniques and practiced them. He is clearly an extremely skilled surgeon. He is also a very intelligent and kind person. As someone who doesn't love the idea of surgery, I felt comfortable and confident… As someone who works as a professor and an artist, I can say that Dr. Zimm sets a high bar for engaging with people and teaching them about their condition, for putting people at ease and building trust, and for clearly being passionate about both the artistry and the technical dexterity of his work. I couldn't recommend him more.”

"He won me by his demeanor, his experience, strive for perfection and honesty."

“Need a perfect, natural-looking nose? Go nowhere else but to Dr. Zimm!...Being involved in the industry myself, I went to 13 different rhinoplasty consultations in NYC to find the right surgeon. After hearing lots of opinions, prices and seeing different images of the "perfect" nose, I chose Dr. Zimm. He won me by his demeanor, his experience, strive for perfection and honesty. He also didn't have a "signature" nose he puts on every one of his patients (walk around the UES and you'll know what I'm talking about). He is truly an amazing surgeon and anyone who works with him at the hospital will tell you the same.”

"Dr. Zimm made me feel as though he was treating a friend or family member."

“Working in the industry I have had the opportunity to work with many surgeons and am always very particular when choosing a physician myself, family, friends and so forth. Dr. Zimm recently performed a Blepharoplasty on me in his office. I consulted with 10 surgeons before moving forward and scheduling this surgery. Without hesitation, I have to say I could not have made a better choice in surgeons!!!! Dr. Zimm was confident and competent, he also had a wonderful bedside manner and made me feel as though he was treating a friend or family member of his own. Fantastic! Not to mention the results are amazing!!!! Completely natural, but amazing Thank you Dr. Zimm!!!!!!”

"Warm and extremely professional"

I am not one to write reviews, but Dr. Zimm deserves one. I had numerous consultations with other top rhinoplasty surgeons across the country but as soon as I had my consultation with Dr. Zimm, I immediately felt he was the right surgeon for me. I am very thankful I chose him. Heather and his entire staff have been warm and extremely professional. He is a brilliant surgeon. I can’t say enough positive things about my experience and would recommend him to anyone looking for a kind, patient, artistic surgeon.

"From the moment you step into Dr. Zimm's office you feel at ease."

"I spent the bulk of my life feeling self conscious about how my ears were set on my head, and I started to look around for surgeons for my otoplasty to help correct them. After my first meeting with Dr. Zimm, I cancelled my remaining consultations with other surgeons. Dr. Zimm and his staff make you feel at ease and informed at every step of the process. From the consistent and clear communication all the way through to the fantastic results and follow up care, Dr. Zimm was without a doubt the right choice to handle my case. Thank you Dr. Zimm and team!"

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

The ideal age varies depending on the procedure. Some surgeries, like rhinoplasty, are often performed in late teens or early twenties, while others are more common among older adults seeking anti-aging treatments.

When performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon in a accredited facility, plastic surgery is generally safe. However, all surgical procedures carry inherent risks, and individual factors also play a role in safety.

Recovery time varies depending on the procedure and individual healing abilities. Some treatments may have minimal downtime, while others may require several weeks of recuperation.

Skilled surgeons strive to provide natural-looking outcomes. Open communication with your surgeon about your expectations and goals is crucial for achieving the results you desire.

Most surgeries result in some scarring, but plastic surgeons aim to minimize scarring through careful incision placement and suturing techniques. Scar management post-surgery can also help.

The cost varies by procedure and location. We do not accept insurance.

It's crucial to select a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in the specific procedure you're interested in. Reading reviews, checking credentials, and scheduling consultations can help with this decision.

Risks include infection, scarring, anesthesia complications, and dissatisfaction with results. An open discussion with your surgeon about potential risks and how they can be minimized is essential.

 

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