Ear Aesthetics

Otoplasty (ear surgery) is an operation that corrects problems with the shape and position of the outer ear, most commonly prominent ears. The cartilage is reshaped through a hidden incision behind the ear, and the ears are brought into a natural position closer to the head. It can be performed in children once ear growth is largely complete, and in adults at any age.

What is otoplasty?

Prominent ears are commonly perceived as ears that are larger than they should be. The real problem, however, is that some parts of the cartilage that should be folded are flat. Shape deformities of the ears can be corrected surgically.

With prominent ears, the outer ear stands further away from the head than it should. There are two main reasons for this: the fold in the upper part of the ear (the antihelix) has not developed sufficiently, or the cartilage forming the bowl around the ear canal is too deep. In most people both are present, and the surgical plan is made accordingly.

Who is otoplasty suitable for?

It is suitable for people with prominent ears, marked asymmetry between the two ears, or shape problems such as a torn or enlarged earlobe. Because the outer ear reaches most of its adult size in childhood, surgery can also be considered in school-age children; at this age, the child's own wish and cooperation are important. There is no upper age limit for adults, but because cartilage stiffens with age, the shaping technique is chosen accordingly.

How should you prepare for surgery?

At the consultation you will be asked about your general health, medications and previous operations; medicines and some herbal supplements that can increase bleeding are stopped for a while beforehand on medical advice. For adults, stopping smoking before and after surgery helps healing. On the day of surgery, having clean hair tied back makes the dressing easier; there is no need to cut the hair. Children should be told in advance, in language they can understand, why the operation is being done and what to expect afterwards.

How is otoplasty performed?

In children the operation is usually performed under general anesthesia, and in adults mostly under local anesthesia. The incision is placed on the back of the ear, in the groove where it meets the head. The missing fold is recreated with permanent stitches, excess cartilage in the bowl of the ear is reduced if necessary, and the outer ear is fixed in a position closer to the head. At the end of the operation a soft dressing is applied to protect the ears.

At Sculpture Polyclinic in Etiler, the consultation before otoplasty is carried out by plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgeon Op. Dr. Toygar Ünveren. Each ear is assessed separately, any asymmetries are noted, and the desired result is discussed with you, or with the family in the case of children. In adults, ear surgery can be planned in the same session as other plastic surgery procedures where appropriate.

What is recovery like?

In the first few days there may be throbbing and tenderness in the ears; the dressing is usually removed within the first week. After that, wearing a soft headband that protects the ears is recommended for several weeks, especially at night. During this period, take care when lying on your side and avoid accessories that press on the ears, such as hats and helmets. Most people can return to school or desk work within about a week; contact sports require a longer wait. The timeframes in the summary above are averages and vary from person to person.

What are the risks and possible complications?

Temporary numbness of the ear skin, thickened scarring behind the ear, small differences between the two ears and, rarely, partial relapse caused by the stitches loosening over time can occur. A collection of blood at the surgical site or an infection of the cartilage is rare, but early recognition is important.

Who is otoplasty not suitable for?

Surgery is postponed for people with an active ear infection, those with a bleeding disorder, and children who do not want the operation themselves. For people prone to thickened scars (keloids), this risk is discussed separately. If you develop increasing pain on one side, marked swelling, redness or a fever after surgery, seek medical help immediately.

Frequently asked questions

At what age can prominent ear surgery be done?

Because the outer ear reaches most of its adult size in childhood, the operation can be done in school-age children. There is no specific upper age limit for adults; the right timing is decided at the consultation.

Does otoplasty leave a scar?

Because the incision is placed in the natural groove on the back of the ear, it cannot be seen from the front. How the scar heals over time depends on your skin type.

How long is the headband worn after surgery?

The first dressing is usually removed within the first week. After that, a soft headband is recommended for several weeks to protect the ears, especially while sleeping; your surgeon decides on the duration.

Does otoplasty affect hearing?

The operation changes only the shape and position of the outer ear. Because the middle and inner ear are not touched, it is not expected to affect hearing.

Can a torn earlobe be repaired?

An earlobe that has been torn or stretched by earrings can be repaired with a minor procedure. This is usually done under local anesthesia.

Can the ears return to their previous position over time?

In most people the results are long-lasting. In rare cases, loosening of the stitches can cause the ear to partly stand out again, and a minor correction may be needed.

This content is for information only and does not replace a medical examination. For information about otoplasty or to book a consultation, please get in touch with us.