Ear procedures may be considered for congenital, traumatic, functional or appearance-related concerns. Suitability depends on individual anatomy, age, development, medical history, expectations, risks and recovery considerations.
Dr Ling-Yun Alice Chang provides assessment and information for selected ear procedures, including otoplasty, microtia reconstruction, newborn ear moulding, earlobe reconstruction and ear reconstruction following trauma.
Dr Chang provides assessment and surgical care for selected ear procedures from her private consulting rooms and accredited hospitals across Sydney.
Otoplasty may be considered where ear position or shape is a concern. It can involve reshaping cartilage and repositioning the ear closer to the head.
Suitability depends on age, ear development, anatomy and individual circumstances. For children, timing and suitability are discussed carefully with parents or guardians. Risks include bleeding, infection, scarring, asymmetry, recurrence, changes in sensation and the possible need for revision surgery.
Microtia is a congenital condition in which the outer ear is underdeveloped or absent. It may also be associated with differences in the ear canal and varying degrees of hearing impairment.
Surgical reconstruction may be considered in appropriate cases and can involve the use of rib cartilage to create an ear framework, with surrounding tissue used for coverage. Treatment planning is individualised and may involve a staged approach.
Timing of surgery is discussed on a case-by-case basis, taking into account development, clinical considerations and family preferences. For children with microtia, care is often coordinated through a specialist multidisciplinary team, such as the Microtia Clinic at CHW.
Newborn ear moulding is a non-surgical approach that may be considered shortly after birth for certain congenital differences in ear shape. The treatment involves applying a moulding device to the external ear to gently guide its shape over time.
Suitability is assessed during consultation. Dr Chang will discuss whether this approach is appropriate and outline the expected course of treatment based on your baby’s individual needs.
Ear lobe reconstruction may be considered to repair or reconstruct the earlobe following tearing, stretching or other changes.
The procedure is typically performed under local anaesthesia. Recovery timeframes vary and will be discussed during consultation. Risks include bleeding, infection, scarring, asymmetry, altered sensation and recurrence.
Ear reconstruction following trauma may be considered where the ear has been affected by injury, including lacerations, tissue loss or burns.
Management depends on the nature and extent of the injury. Treatment may range from minor repair to more complex procedures involving skin grafting, local flaps or cartilage grafting.
Dr Ling-Yun Alice Chang is a highly qualified and specially trained plastic surgeon. She has a strong reputation for her caring bedside manner, excellent clinical skills and meticulous operating technique.
info@alicechangplasticsurgeon.com.au -baby's full name & date of birth -photos of both ears -parent or guardian full name -contact number and email address -referral, where available
We will be in touch to arrange a suitable appointment for consultation and, where appropriate, treatment at the Mosman or Bondi Junction practice.
60 minute consultation: $485, Medicare rebate $86
30 minute consultation: $365, Medicare rebate $86
30 minute follow-up consultation: $300
15 minute follow-up consultation: $165-$195
Ear moulding
Ear moulding initial consultation: $365, Medicare rebate $86
Ear moulding follow-up consultation: $200, Medicare rebate $43.35
Ear moulding treatment is generally considered most suitable within the first 3 months of life. If your baby is older, you are welcome to enquire about available options.
A valid referral is required prior to your appointment with Dr Chang. Please arrange this with your GP or paediatrician before attending your consultation.
If you would like to discuss an ear concern or learn whether treatment may be appropriate, please contact the practice to arrange a consultation.
All procedures carry risks. Individual suitability, recovery and outcomes vary.
