Otoplasty in
Scottsdale, AZ


Otoplasty surgery in Scottsdale, Phoenix & Paradise Valley, performed by board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Mark Gruszynski.
Otoplasty surgery in Scottsdale, Phoenix & Paradise Valley, performed by board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Mark Gruszynski.
Subtle Changes Make a Difference
Many people feel self-conscious about ears that stick out too far or have an unusual shape.
These concerns can affect confidence in social situations, professional settings, and daily interactions.
Children and adults alike may avoid certain hairstyles or feel uncomfortable in photos because of their ear appearance.
At Dr. Mark Plastic Surgery, we understand how ear shape affects your comfort and confidence.
Our experienced team offers expert care to patients in Scottsdale and Phoenix with personalized ear pinning surgery to help you achieve natural-looking, well-proportioned ears.
What to Know About Ear Reshaping Surgery in Scottsdale
Otoplasty, also known as cosmetic ear reshaping surgery or “ear pinning,” is a procedure that reshapes, repositions, or reduces the size of the ears to change their appearance.
While it’s most commonly performed to correct ears that stick out too far from the head, it’s also used to improve asymmetry or irregular contours.
Dr. Mark performs this surgery using discreet incisions typically placed behind the ears. The goal is always the same: results that bring harmony to your face.
Take the first step toward ears that complement your natural features. Schedule your otoplasty consultation at our Scottsdale office.
Benefits of Ear Pinning Surgery
Otoplasty addresses both aesthetic concerns and the emotional impact of prominent ears. Here’s how this procedure can improve your appearance and confidence:
Ideal Candidates
for Ear Shaping Surgery
Many people struggle with the feeling that their ears are too large or uneven. This surgery can be a powerful solution for children and adults in Scottsdale or Phoenix seeking comfort in their appearance. Here’s who benefits most from this procedure:

Oversized Ears
Your ears noticeably stick out or appear too large in proportion to the head.

Avoid Photos or Short Hairstyles
You constantly adjust your hair to cover your ears or avoid pictures from certain angles.

Asymmetrical Ears
You have natural asymmetries, folds, or deformities from birth or due to past trauma.

After Complete Ear Growth
Children past 5 have complete ear growth and can achieve excellent results.

Desire for Facial Balance
Small ear shape or position adjustments can create a more balanced appearance.
Whether you’re pursuing this surgery for yourself or your child, otoplasty offers a lasting change.
Take the first step toward ears that look proportionate and feel right for you.
Otoplasty Consultation at Our Scottsdale Office
Your consultation begins with Dr. Mark examining your ear structure, measuring the degree of protrusion, and assessing cartilage quality. He evaluates overall ear symmetry to determine the best surgical approach for your specific anatomy.
During this appointment, you’ll discuss your aesthetic goals and concerns about your ear appearance. Dr. Mark explains which techniques will achieve your desired results and helps you understand what to expect from the procedure. He also reviews potential risks, recovery expectations, and answers all your questions.
The consultation includes taking photographs for your medical record and surgical planning purposes. You’ll receive detailed pre-operative instructions and have time to consider your decision before scheduling surgery.
How to Prepare for Your Otoplasty
Preparation for otoplasty is a key part of a smooth procedure and recovery. Here’s what you can expect to do in the days leading up to surgery:

Remove Earrings
Take out all earrings and avoid new piercings for a few weeks before surgery to lower the risk of irritation or infection.

Hold Off on Hair Treatments
Avoid haircuts, coloring, or chemical treatments within one week of surgery to minimize scalp or ear irritation.

Stop Smoking and Limit Alcohol
Quit smoking several weeks before surgery and avoid excessive alcohol to support circulation and healing.

Keep the Area Clean
In the days before surgery, wash your ears and surrounding skin gently and avoid lotions, oils, or harsh products.

Avoid Ear Pressure
Skip headphones and tight headbands for several days before your procedure to prevent pressure on the ears.

Prepare Your Recovery Space
Set up a quiet, comfortable area with soft pillows and entertainment since your ears will be bandaged and sensitive afterward.
Schedule your otoplasty consultation at our office today, where we proudly welcome patients from Scottsdale, Phoenix, and Paradise Valley.
What are the Steps of an Otoplasty Surgery?
While each otoplasty that Dr. Mark performs is customized to the patient’s needs and ear shape, most surgeries follow this series of carefully planned steps:
Related Procedures
Sometimes, patients’ aesthetic concerns about their ears go beyond the ear’s overall shape or position. We also offer procedures that address the earlobes’ size, shape, or damage, often combined with or separate from otoplasty surgery.
Earlobe Reduction
Oversized or stretched earlobes can distract from facial harmony and make earrings uncomfortable. Earlobe reduction is a quick, in-office procedure that removes excess tissue to create a more proportionate shape. Patients with naturally large earlobes or whose lobes have lengthened with age often choose this procedure1.
Earlobe Repair
Torn or stretched earlobes can be fully restored with a simple surgical repair2. This delicate procedure involves removing damaged tissue and suturing the earlobe to regain its natural shape. Once healed, the ear can often be re-pierced if desired.
Book your otoplasty consultation today to discuss your options and create a plan that’s right for you.
Otoplasty Recovery Timeline
Otoplasty recovery is typically smooth and well-tolerated, with most patients returning to daily activities within a week. Here’s a general timeline of what to expect:
Day 1
After you return home, you’ll have a soft bandage wrapped around your head to protect your ears and maintain their new shape. Mild discomfort, tightness, or pressure is common but usually managed.
Week 1
By the end of the first week, most patients return to work or school as long as the activities are not strenuous. Bandages are often replaced with a lighter headband.
Week 2
After two weeks have passed, swelling and bruising continue to fade. You may still need to wear the supportive headband at night to keep your ears protected while sleeping.
Week 3
During the third week, most of the visible bruising is gone, and the ears begin to look more natural. Patients often feel more comfortable resuming social activities.
Month 1
By the one-month mark, swelling has mostly resolved, and the final ear shape becomes more defined. Most patients are cleared to resume their normal routines.
Months 2-3
The full results are visible after 2-3 months have passed, and scars continue to fade into the natural creases of the ears. Patients feel fully comfortable returning to all activities.

Dr. Mark’s Recovery Tips
- Wear your headband exactly as instructed
- Sleep on your back with your head elevated
- Keep incisions clean and dry
- Avoid side-sleeping or pressure on the ears
- Stay hydrated and eat a healthy diet
- Attend all follow-up appointments
Why Choose
Dr. Mark Gruszynski
Dr. Mark is a board-certified plastic surgeon recognized across Scottsdale and Phoenix for natural, balanced results with more than a decade of surgical experience. He completed advanced training at UCLA, where he focused on complex reconstructive and facial procedures, including ear surgery.
His experience includes treating patients of all ages with concerns related to prominent, misshapen, or post-traumatic ears, giving him a comprehensive understanding of both form and proportion.
He is widely trusted for his skill in cosmetic and reconstructive otoplasty, helping patients achieve ears that appear natural and balanced with their other facial features.
His approach prioritizes patient comfort and safety while creating results that complement each individual’s anatomy. His goal is not only to improve the appearance of the ears but also to help patients feel confident in their overall look.
Frequently Asked
Questions About Ear Reshaping Surgery
Get in Touch!
Do you have questions or are you ready for a consultation? Fill out the form, and our team will reach out to schedule your visit.
References
- Tatar, S., & Sezgin, B. (2019). Aesthetic earlobe reduction: A practical geometric modification with natural contour preservation. Facial Plastic Surgery, 35(3), 294–298. https://www.thieme-connect.com/products/ejournals/pdf/10.1055/s-0039-1688704.pdf
- Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Earlobe repair: Surgery for split, torn & stretched piercings. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/procedures/earlobe-repair

