OTOPLASTY
Approached with care and restraint
The ears play a quiet but significant role in facial balance. When they draw attention, it can affect confidence from an early age, often long before someone ever considers surgery.
Our approach to otoplasty is not about creating “perfect” ears or erasing individuality. It is about rebalancing proportion so the ears sit more harmoniously within the face, thoughtfully, conservatively, and with long-term outcomes in mind.
Who may consider ear rebalancing surgery?
This procedure may be appropriate for individuals who:
Feel their ears protrude or draw unwanted attention
Have lived with self-consciousness related to ear shape or position
Are seeking subtle correction rather than noticeable change
Value natural-looking results that do not appear surgical
Are prepared for the realities of healing and recovery
Ear rebalancing surgery is not intended for those seeking perfectly symmetrical or exaggerated outcomes. Natural variation is respected.
Our surgical approach
Each otoplasty plan is developed as a surgical strategy, not a standardized technique.
Careful assessment of ear cartilage, shape, position, and overall facial proportions guides every recommendation. In many cases, conservative reshaping and repositioning achieve the most stable and natural result. Overcorrection is intentionally avoided.
The objective is balance, so the ears recede into the overall appearance rather than becoming a focal point.
What this procedure may address
Ear rebalancing surgery may help address:
Prominent or protruding ears
Asymmetry between the ears
Irregular cartilage folds or positioning
Disproportion between the ears and facial features
Every surgical plan is individualized and based on anatomy rather than ideals of perfection.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why prominent ears are rarely just about how far they stick out
When patients describe concerns about their ears, they often say their ears “stick out.” What’s usually happening is more nuanced. Ear prominence is often caused by the ear's shape, not just its position.
Confusing ear shape with ear position is one of the most common reasons otoplasty results look flat, tight, or obviously surgical. Dr. Smith approaches otoplasty by correcting structure first, then position, with restraint and long-term stability in mind.
Ear position: how far the ear sits from the head
Ear position refers to the distance and angle between the ear and the side of the head.
In some patients, the ear is rotated outward relative to the average. This can contribute to a prominent appearance.
However, simply pushing the ear closer to the head without addressing the shape can create:
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A flat or pinned-back look
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Loss of natural curvature
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An unnatural ear–head relationship
Position alone is rarely the full story.
Ear shape: the architecture of the ear itself
Ear shape is defined by the folds, curves, and contours of the cartilage.
Key structural features include:
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The antihelical fold (the inner ridge of the ear)
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The conchal bowl (the central cup of the ear)
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The natural curves along the outer rim
In many prominent ears, the antihelical fold is underdeveloped or absent. This causes the ear to appear flat and protrusive, even when it is not excessively rotated outward.
Why correcting shape matters more than pinning
When shape is ignored, and ears are simply pinned back:
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The ear can look overly flat
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Natural shadows disappear
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The ear may relapse over time
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Results often appear artificial
Restoring natural folds allows the ear to sit closer to the head without losing dimension.
A shape-first surgical philosophy
Dr. Smith prioritizes reshaping the ear’s cartilage to recreate natural contours.
This approach:
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Preserves three-dimensional anatomy
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Allows more natural ear positioning
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Reduces tension on sutures
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Improves long-term stability
Position is adjusted only to the extent necessary to restore balance.
Symmetry vs individuality
Natural ears are not perfectly symmetrical.
Attempting to make ears identical can:
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Draw attention to surgery
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Create stiffness or imbalance
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Eliminate natural variation
Dr. Smith aims for harmony with the face, not mirror-image ears.
Long-term perspective
Ears have memory.
Cartilage that is forced into position without proper shaping is more likely to resist correction over time. Shape-based correction respects cartilage behavior and produces more durable results.
Final perspective
Successful otoplasty is not about flattening ears against the head.
It is about restoring natural ear shape, allowing the ears to sit comfortably and quietly within the face.
By distinguishing between ear shape and ear position, Dr. Smith creates otoplasty results that are balanced, stable, and discreet, without announcing surgery.
A private consultation provides an opportunity to carefully assess ear anatomy and determine whether shape correction, position adjustment, or restraint is most appropriate.
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Why subtle projection is essential for natural-looking ears
One of the most common fears patients have before otoplasty is ending up with ears that look flat, tight, or “pinned back.”
That fear is valid.
Natural ears are three-dimensional structures. They do not sit flush against the head, and surgery that forces them to do so often produces results that look artificial.
Dr. Smith approaches otoplasty with a clear principle: the goal is balance, not flattening.
What natural ear position look like
In an untreated ear, there is a gentle and consistent relationship between the ear and the side of the head.
Natural ears:
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Maintain a small but visible space from the head
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Cast soft, natural shadows
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Sit at a slightly different angle from top to bottom
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Move subtly with facial expression
These details are what make ears disappear into the face rather than draw attention.
Why flat ears look surgical
When ears are pulled too close to the head:
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Natural curves are lost
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Shadows disappear
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The ear can appear stiff or pasted-on
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Surgical intervention becomes obvious
This “over-corrected” look is one of the most common causes of dissatisfaction after otoplasty.
Balance over symmetry
Perfect symmetry often looks unnatural.
Ears naturally differ slightly from side to side. Attempting to make them identical or perfectly flat can:
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Disrupt facial balance
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Highlight surgical changes
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Reduce natural movement
Dr. Smith prioritizes harmony of the face over mechanical sameness.
A restraint-first approach
Dr. Smith deliberately avoids aggressive setback techniques that flatten the ear against the head.
Instead, surgery focuses on:
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Recreating natural cartilage folds
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Allowing appropriate projection
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Preserving three-dimensional shape
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Minimizing tension on sutures
This approach supports more stable, natural-looking results.
Long-term considerations
Ears are made of cartilage, and cartilage has memory.
When ears are forced into an unnaturally flat position, they are more likely to resist correction over time. Maintaining natural projection reduces stress on cartilage and improves long-term stability.
Final perspective
Successful otoplasty should make ears quieter, not flatter.
By respecting natural ear projection and avoiding over-correction, Dr. Smith creates results that blend seamlessly with the face and age naturally over time.
A private consultation allows you to carefully assess ear anatomy and discuss the appropriate amount of correction for your face, without pressure or exaggeration.
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Ears remember where they’ve been
One of the most misunderstood aspects of otoplasty is cartilage behavior. Ear cartilage is not passive tissue — it has memory. When it is bent, folded, or repositioned, it has a natural tendency to return toward its original shape.
Ignoring cartilage memory is one of the most common reasons otoplasty results relapse or look unnatural over time.
Dr. Smith plans otoplasty with cartilage behavior in mind — not just immediate appearance.
What cartilage memory means
Cartilage memory refers to the tendency of ear cartilage to resist permanent change.
This is influenced by:
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Cartilage thickness and stiffness
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Patient age
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Natural ear shape
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Degree of correction required
Stronger cartilage requires more thoughtful shaping to achieve stable, long-term results.
Why simple pinning often fails
Techniques that rely solely on pulling the ear closer to the head place constant tension on cartilage and sutures.
Over time, this can lead to:
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Gradual relapse or widening of ear position
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Flattened or distorted ear shape
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Visible tension lines or irregular contours
Pinning without reshaping asks cartilage to do something it is not designed to sustain.
Shape-first techniques create stability
Long-term otoplasty success depends on reshaping cartilage, not just repositioning it.
This may involve:
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Recreating or strengthening the antihelical fold
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Adjusting cartilage contours gradually
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Using sutures to support shape rather than fight it
When cartilage is reshaped to a natural configuration, it rests comfortably instead of resisting correction.
Why technique varies by patient
No two ears behave the same way.
Dr. Smith adjusts technique based on:
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Cartilage strength
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Ear size and projection
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Age-related flexibility
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Desired degree of correction
This individualized approach improves predictability and durability.
Long-term comfort and appearance
When cartilage memory is respected:
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Ears feel more natural
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Tension-related discomfort is reduced
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Results age quietly over time
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The risk of revision decreases
Aggressive techniques may look dramatic early but often compromise long-term comfort and stability.
Healing and stabilization
Healing after otoplasty is not just skin healing — it is cartilage adaptation.
During recovery:
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Cartilage gradually settles into its new shape
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Support during early healing is important
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Time is a critical part of stabilization
Judging results too early can be misleading.
Final perspective
Otoplasty is not about forcing ears into position.
It is about understanding how cartilage behaves and using technique to work with the tissue rather than against it.
By respecting cartilage memory and choosing shape-driven techniques, Dr. Smith creates otoplasty results that are stable, natural, and durable — without announcing surgery.
A private consultation provides the opportunity to assess cartilage characteristics and discuss how technique influences long-term outcomes.
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The Procedure
Step 1
Anesthesia
Medications are administered for your comfort during the surgical procedure. The choices include local anesthesia combined with intravenous sedation or general anesthesia. Your doctor will recommend the best choice for you.
Step 2
The incision
Correction of protruding ears uses surgical techniques to create or improve the antihelical fold (just inside the rim of the ear) and to reduce enlarged conchal cartilage (the largest and deepest concavity of the external ear).
Incisions for otoplasty are generally made on the back surface of the ear. When incisions are necessary on the front of the ear, they are made within its folds to hide them. Internal, non-removable sutures are used to create and secure the newly shaped cartilage in place.
Step 3
Closing the incisions
External stitches close the incision. Techniques are individualized, taking care not to distort other structures and to avoid an unnatural "pinned back" appearance.
Step 4
See the results
Ear surgery offers near immediate results in cases of protruding ears, visible once the dressings are removed. With the ear permanently positioned closer to the head, surgical scars are either hidden behind the ear or well-hidden in the natural creases of the ear.
Recovery and considerations
All surgery involves healing, swelling, and temporary changes in sensation.
Incisions are placed discreetly, typically behind the ear, and are designed to heal inconspicuously over time. Patients are guided through recovery with clear expectations, attentive follow-up, and careful support.
Recovery timelines and activity guidance are discussed in detail during consultation.
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About results
Results from otoplasty are intended to be subtle, balanced, and enduring.
The goal is not to make the ears look “done,” but to allow them to blend naturally with the face, often becoming something patients no longer think about.
A considered surgical experience
From consultation through recovery, care is delivered in a calm, private, and unhurried environment.
Patients are supported with honest guidance, thoughtful planning, and consistent follow-up, without pressure to proceed.
Moving forward
Choosing ear surgery is a personal and considered decision.
A private consultation provides the time and space to explore whether otoplasty is appropriate for you and to discuss options carefully, without obligation.
Risks and Safety
The decision to have ear surgery is extremely personal. You will have to decide if the benefits will achieve your goals and if the risks and potential complications are acceptable. You will be asked to sign consent forms to ensure that you fully understand the procedure and its risks.
The risks include:
Anesthesia risks
Bleeding
Infection
Poor wound healing
Change in skin sensation
Asymmetry
Persistent pain
Unfavorable scarring
Possibility of revisional surgery
Allergies to tape, suture materials, glues, blood products, topical preparations, or injected agents
These risks and others will be fully discussed prior to your consent. It's important that you address all your questions directly with Dr. Smith.
Consultation and Preparing for Surgery
During your consultation be prepared to discuss:
Your surgical goals
Medical conditions, drug allergies, and medical treatments
Current medications, vitamins, herbal supplements, alcohol, tobacco, and drug use
Previous surgeries
Dr. Smith may also:
Evaluate your general health status and any pre-existing health conditions or risk factors
Take photographs
Discuss your ear surgery options
Recommend a course of treatment
Discuss likely outcomes of your ear surgery and any risks or potential complications
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Prior to surgery, you may be asked to:
Get lab testing or a medical evaluation
Take certain medications or adjust your current medications
Stop smoking
Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, and herbal supplements as they can increase bleeding
Dr. Smith will also discuss where your procedure will be performed. Depending on the type of surgery, your procedure may be performed in an accredited office-based surgical facility, a licensed ambulatory surgical center, or a hospital.
Be sure to ask Dr. Smith questions. It's very important to understand all aspects of your ear surgery. It's natural to feel some anxiety, whether it's excitement for your anticipated new look or a bit of preoperative stress. Don't be shy about discussing these feelings with Dr. Smith.
Recovery After Surgery
Dressings will be used to support the new shape of the ear during the initial phases of healing. Once these are removed, the results of your ear surgery are immediately visible. With the ear permanently positioned closer to the head, surgical scars are either hidden behind the ear or well-hidden in the natural creases of the ear.
Discomfort immediately following ear surgery is normal and can be controlled with pain medication. There may be an itchy feeling under bandages. It is essential that bandages remain intact and are not removed for any reason. Failure to do so may result in loss of some of the correction and may require a secondary surgery.
Be sure to ask Dr. Smith specific questions about what you can expect during your individual recovery period.
Where will I be taken after my surgery is complete?
What medication will I be given or prescribed after surgery?
Will I have dressings/bandages after surgery?
When will they be removed?
Are stitches removed? When?
When can I resume normal activity and exercise?
When do I return for follow-up care?
Results
The results of your ear surgery are immediately visible. Over time, post-surgical swelling will resolve and incision lines will fade. Satisfaction with your new image should continue to grow as you recover from surgery. The final results of your surgery will appear over the next few months.
Although good results are expected from your procedure, there is no guarantee. In some situations, it may not be possible to achieve optimal results with a single surgical procedure and another surgery may be necessary.
Following Dr. Smith’s instructions is essential to the success of your surgery. It's important that the surgical incisions are not subjected to excessive force, swelling, abrasion, or motion during the time of healing. Dr. Smith will give you specific instructions on how to care for yourself. It's very important to follow Dr. Smith's instructions and attend follow-up visits as scheduled.
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Cost
Prices for ear surgery can vary. The cost will be based on the type of procedure required to address your specific needs. Dr. Smith does offer patient financing plans, so be sure to ask.
Cost may include:
Anesthesia fees
Hospital or surgical facility costs
Medical tests
Prescriptions for medication
Surgeon's fee
OHIP will cover the cost of otoplasty in children up to the age of 18 years. In adults, it is considered cosmetic surgery and therefore not covered.
Dr. Smith
Your satisfaction involves more than a fee. When choosing a plastic surgeon for Otoplasty, remember that the surgeon's experience and your comfort with him or her is just as important as the final cost of the surgery.
Plastic surgery involves many choices. The first and most important is selecting a Plastic Surgeon you can trust. Plastic Surgeons such as Dr. Smith, certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada meet rigorous standards:
Board certification by Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada®
Completed five years of surgical training following medical school
Pass comprehensive oral and written exams
Complete continuing medical education, including patient safety
Perform surgery in accredited hospitals and surgical facilities
Following Dr. Smith’s Plastic Surgery residency, he completed an extra year of training, completing two additional clinical Fellowships to further his expertise in the field of Plastic Surgery. Please see his biography for more details.
Do not be confused by other official sounding boards and certifications. Be sure to choose a highly trained plastic surgeon who is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons or The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.
This procedural information is intended strictly for educational purposes. Only models are depicted in these procedural information pages. It is not intended to make any representations or warranties about the outcome of any procedure. It is not a substitute for a thorough, in-person consultation with Dr. Smith.
Real Stories. Real Transformations.
Rhinoplasty 5.0/5 — May 12, 2022 I highly recommend Dr. Smith for anyone considering a rhinoplasty. I am currently 8 weeks post op and I'm thrilled with my results so far. I have nothing but good things to say about Dr. Smith and his team at The Ottawa Clinic. Throughout the entire process, Dr. Smith has been compassionate, genuine and so attentive. He is very easy to talk to and listens patiently to my questions and concerns. He has always been on time, I've never felt rushed during appointments, and his Patient Care Coordinator, Sarah, is extremely pleasant to deal with. The recovery itself was relatively easy, although I was quite bruised and swollen. I experienced mild discomfort, but never felt any pain. The process was not as bad as I had anticipated - I only wish I had done it years ago!! I was looking for a very natural nose and my results are above and beyond what I had hoped for. Dr. Smith is a very skilled surgeon and I'm so thankful I found him. I can't recommend him enough!
Breast Augmentation 5.0/5 — August 18, 2025 Dr. Smith is absolutely amazing, he is the most skilled surgeon in Ottawa and along with that he also has great bedside manner. I met a few surgeons for consults before I met Dr. Smith, for my breast augmentation. None of them were as thorough, knowledgable, kind, or positive as he was. From our first consult I knew I wanted him to be my surgeon. His team is also AMAZING. They are supportive, quick to respond and they help you through the whole process, before and after. I am almost 3 months post surgery now and I couldn’t have dreamed of better results. He gave me exactly what I wanted. I can’t recommend him enough, he is the best surgeon in Ottawa hands down!!!
Upper and Lower Blepharoplasty 5.0/5 — November 22, 2024 Dr. Smith is an excellent surgeon and has a great personality. I had blepharoplasty ( upper and lower eyelid) and after couple of weeks it looked really good and even better now after two months. Dr Smith is knowledgeable and well skilled and make you at ease and answers all your questions and concerns. Him and his team ( Sarah) and others are all professional and very pleasant. I highly recommend Dr Smith for any of your plastic surgery needs. I’m planning for another procedure next year.
Deep Plane Facelift 5.0/5 — April 4, 2025 Dr. Smith is an exceptional surgeon. physician. He and his staff are professional, kind and caring. He performed a deep plane face lift for me just two weeks ago and I am already so pleased with the results. 10 out of 10 rating for Dr. Smith.
Breast Augmentation 5.0/5 — December 21, 2023 Dr. Smith is an exceptional cosmetic surgeon who has truly transformed my life through his remarkable skill and expertise. I recently underwent a breast augmentation procedure under his care, and I couldn't be more thrilled with the results. From the initial consultation to the post-operative care, Dr. Smith demonstrated the utmost professionalism and compassion. He took the time to thoroughly understand my goals and concerns, and he provided me with clear and realistic expectations for the procedure. His attention to detail and commitment to patient satisfaction were evident at every stage of the process. The surgical outcome exceeded my expectations in every way. Not only did Dr. Smith achieve beautiful, natural-looking results, but he also ensured that my safety and comfort were prioritized throughout the entire experience. His expertise and precision are truly unmatched. Furthermore, the entire staff of Dr. Smith provided outstanding support and care, making the entire experience seamless and comfortable. I felt well-informed, supported, and empowered throughout the entire journey, thanks to the exceptional team led by Dr. Smith. I wholeheartedly recommend Dr. Smith to anyone considering cosmetic surgery. His talent, integrity, and genuine concern for his patients make him a true standout in his field. I am immensely thankful for the beautiful results and the exceptional care I received, and I am confident that anyone who chooses Dr. Smith will be in the best of hands.
Abdominoplasty / Tummy Tuck 5.0/5 — October 22, 2021 I went to Dr. Sean Smith for an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), I cannot be more thrilled with the results! From start to finish, he and his team made me feel comfortable with no pressure at all. Both the clinic and the private surgery location are clean and modern with ample free parking. About me, after the delivery of two children, I felt self-conscious of my body especially the abdominal pouch that hung over my waist. Even through eating healthy and exercising there was no way that the extra skin and sag would ever disappear naturally. I hated the way that my belly would be exposed in yoga classes to the point that I didn’t want to go the gym or even bother to exercise anymore – it felt pointless. I felt ashamed of my body and would make excuses to my kids why I didn’t want to go swimming, and felt disgusted with my appearance in photos. I would hide myself in loose-fitting baggy clothing and that made me feel even worse emotionally. Cosmetic surgery always seemed to me about the rich and famous. Something for extremely vain people, and I thought it was a waste of money. I can assure you that this is not the case. I made the decision to book a consultation with The Ottawa Clinic and it has literally changed my perspective and mental health. Dr. Smith started the conversation by assessing my expectations and assuring me that I was a good candidate for the procedure. He was kind and patient with all of my questions and concerns. Sarah, the Patient Care Coordinator, was also extremely responsive and helpful for all of the administrative details regarding my procedure. The surgery itself was done at the Gatineau location, which is an easy drive from Ottawa. I was understandably nervous, but all of the supportive personnel made me feel more relaxed. Dr. Smith was excited and enthusiastic and again made me feel at ease and comfortable with the decision to proceed. It has now been over six weeks since the surgery and I am so happy! I feel confident in my body in a way that hasn’t happened since my early 20s. I look at myself and I feel good and am excited to start a new exercise regime. I can’t wait for the summer to go swimming with my kids – and not just any bathing suit it’s a bikini! In the meantime, I’m happy walking around the house in crop tops! This surgery isn’t about vanity, it’s about your mental health and feeling good about yourself. My only regret is that I waited so long to make that call to Dr. Smith. I highly recommend his services.
Rhinoplasty 5.0/5 — April 1, 2023 In the summer of 2022 I met with Dr.Smith to inquire about rhinoplasty surgery. I was curious and equally nervous about proceeding. It was not until I met with Dr.Smith that I felt confident and safe in my decision to proceed. Dr. Smith met my questions with his own questions so that there was a complete understanding of what I wanted to achieve from this surgery and what I should expect. And he exceeded my expectations!!! In November 2022 I had my surgery. I am three months post opt and I feel INCREDIBLE! And it looks INCREDIBLE! The bridge of my nose is smooth, the tip is softer and of course my nose is smaller. And yet the change is some how subtle. Which is what I wanted . I still look like ME! This was a large concern of mine because I didn’t want to look like a different person. Or over done for that matter. The day my cast was removed I was reminded that I would not see the final results until a year but I was struck with joy when I seen my nose for the first time. There was swelling and a small scar but I could still clearly see what changes had been made and where my recovery was as headed. I am amazed. Truly a dream come true. I highly recommend Dr. Smith for any of your cosmetic needs. He is incredibly talented, professional and kind.
Mommy Makeover 5.0/5 — July 24, 2026 Choosing Dr. Sean Smith for my mommy makeover was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. From my very first consultation, I knew I was in the right place. Dr. Smith was patient, honest, and took the time to understand exactly what I was hoping to achieve. He explained every part of the procedure thoroughly and made me feel comfortable and confident moving forward. My surgery included a tummy tuck, liposuction, and a breast lift with implants. Going into surgery, I expected the recovery to be difficult, but it turned out to be much easier than I had imagined. I experienced very little pain, had no complications whatsoever, and my healing process was smooth from beginning to end. The level of care I received before and after surgery was exceptional, and I always felt supported by Dr. Smith and his wonderful team. After losing 35 pounds, I had accomplished something I was incredibly proud of, but I still wasn’t happy with the changes my body had gone through. Dr. Smith helped me complete that journey. The results are beyond anything I had hoped for. My abdomen is beautifully contoured, my breasts look natural and balanced, and everything fits my body perfectly. What stands out most is Dr. Smith’s attention to detail. He doesn’t just perform surgery—he creates results that look elegant, natural, and personalized to each patient. His confidence, experience, and genuine care gave me complete peace of mind throughout the entire process. I am incredibly grateful to Dr. Smith and his entire team for making this such a positive experience. They exceeded my expectations in every way, and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them to anyone considering cosmetic surgery. If I had to make the decision again, I would choose Dr. Smith without a second thought.
Breast Augmentation 5.0/5 — April 19, 2024 I had breast augmentation with Dr. Sean Smith, and I am extremely happy with the results. After 8 weeks post-surgery, I can confidently say he is professional and his work is beyond perfect. The pain level was minimal, only 2 out of 10, and my recovery took just 5 days before I was back to work. My breasts are symmetric, and I love the stitches—no scars or pigmentation issues. I highly recommend Dr. Smith for his exceptional skills and care!
CONTACT DR. SMITH
Dr. Smith is located in Ottawa's West End. Our office features ground-level entry and offers abundant parking. Over 500 free parking spots are available.
For Ottawa appointment inquiries, please use the form.