Information about the procedure
Correction of prominent or misshapen ears by reshaping the ear cartilage.
On this page
What it involves
Otoplasty sets the ear closer to the head and creates cartilage folds that are missing or poorly defined. The result is an ear that does not draw attention.
Prominent ears are a common cause of teasing in childhood, and lead many adults to avoid certain hairstyles for years. It is one of the few operations with very high and very rapid patient satisfaction.
The ear reaches almost its full size by the age of 5–6, so the operation can be performed before the child starts school — when the social benefit is greatest.
Types and approaches
Conventional suture otoplasty
The cartilage is reshaped and held with permanent sutures, through an incision behind the ear. The most widely used technique.
With cartilage thinning
If the cartilage is very stiff, it also needs to be thinned on its back surface so that it can be bent without tension.
Correction of the concha (conchal bowl)
If the conchal bowl is very deep, part of it is reduced or it is set back.
Correction of the upper pole
If the fold along the upper rim is missing or poorly defined, it is created as well.
Who it is suitable for
Suitable for
- Prominent ears in children aged 5–6 and over
- A missing or poorly defined antihelical fold — the curve along the inner rim of the ear
- An overly deep conchal bowl
- Asymmetry between the two ears
- Psychological distress and avoidance of certain hairstyles
- The child’s own wish — it is important that the operation is not done solely at the parents’ request
Not suitable, or postponed, in cases of
- Active inflammation of the ear or surrounding skin
- Age under 5 when the indication is aesthetic
- A tendency to form keloid scars — discussed carefully
- Blood clotting disorders
Preparation
- Consultation with assessment of the shape of each ear separately
- For children — a conversation with the child as well, not just with the parents
- Pre-operative tests if general anaesthesia is planned
- A headband ready for the post-operative period
How it is performed
In adults and older children, the operation is performed under local anaesthesia; in younger children, under general anaesthesia. It takes about an hour to an hour and a half for both ears.
The incision is made behind the ear, in the natural crease, where the scar remains completely hidden.
A head bandage is applied; once it is removed, an elastic headband is worn day and night for the first few weeks, and then at night only.
Recovery
- The first 48 hoursHead bandage in place. Moderate discomfort and a feeling of pressure. Sleep on your back.
- The first weekThe bandage is usually removed after 3–7 days. The ears are swollen and red. You start wearing the elastic headband.
- 2–4 weeksSwelling subsides. Children usually return to school after 7–10 days, with instructions to avoid contact games.
- 1–3 monthsThe shape stabilises. The headband is worn at night only.
- 6 monthsFinal result, with a fully mature scar behind the ear.
Pain and discomfort
The discomfort is moderate and most noticeable during the first two days, while the bandage applies pressure. Children are given age-appropriate painkillers. The ear remains tender to the touch for several weeks.
Risks and complications
Every intervention carries risks. Listing them does not mean they are expected to occur — it allows you to make an informed decision.
- Recurrence — the ear partially returning to its previous position
- Asymmetry between the two ears
- Overcorrection — an ear set too close to the head
- Visible or palpable sutures
- Keloid scar behind the ear — rare, but more common in predisposed individuals
- Haematoma in the ear, requiring urgent evacuation
- Cartilage infection — rare but serious
- Changes in sensation in the ear
Results and longevity
With proper fixation, the result is long-lasting. Cartilage has a memory and tends to spring back in the first few months — which is why wearing the headband is essential, not just a recommendation.
The aim is not perfect symmetry. Everyone’s ears differ slightly from each other, and they remain slightly different after the operation.
In children, the result is maintained as they grow.