Otoplasty

What You Should Know

Otoplasty, also known as ear surgery, is a cosmetic procedure designed to reshape, reposition, or resize the ears to improve their appearance and balance with the rest of the face. This surgery is commonly performed to correct prominent ears, asymmetry, or deformities caused by injury or congenital conditions. Otoplasty can boost self-confidence by creating a natural-looking, well-proportioned ear shape. The procedure is usually done on children and adults and involves incisions behind the ear to minimize visible scarring.

What is Otoplasty?

Otoplasty is a cosmetic ear surgery that resizes, repositions, or reduces the ears. It’s often done to correct protruding, prominent, asymmetrical, or misshapen ears and achieve a more balanced, natural look.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Otoplasty?

You might be a good candidate if you:

  • Are troubled by ears that project too far from the head
  • Have unevenly shaped or too-large ears
  • Have undergone trauma or birth ear deformities
  • Have good general health and realistic expectations

Both children (at age 5+) and adults can undergo otoplasty.

At What Age Can a Child Have Otoplasty?

Kids can undergo otoplasty safely once their ears are mature, generally at age 5 to 6. Ear correction earlier on can avoid teasing or self-consciousness, especially before school age.

What Kinds of Issues Does Otoplasty Treat?

  • Protruding ears (prominent ear correction)
  • Asymmetry between the ears
  • Macrotia (exceptionally large ears)
  • Correction of existing ear surgery or damage
  • Congenital abnormalities (e.g. lop ear or cupped ear)

What Kind of Anaesthesia Is Administered?

  • In children, general anaesthesia is usually administered for comfort and safety.
  • In adults, local anaesthesia and sedation is often adequate.

Your surgeon will advise on the best option during your consultation.

How Long Does Otoplasty Surgery Last?

The process typically lasts 1 to 2 hours, depending on how much correction is needed and whether one or two ears are being addressed.

How Long is the Recovery Time for Otoplasty?

  • Healing initially takes 5 to 7 days
  • A headband or dressing is worn to aid the healing of the ears
  • Most people can go back to work or school within a week
  • Strenuous activity and contact sports must be avoided for 3 to 6 weeks

Swelling and bruising usually settle within a few weeks, and last results are apparent by 4 to 6 weeks.

Will Scars Be Noticeable?

Incisions are typically made behind the ear, in the natural fold where the ear connects with the head. Consequently, any scarring is discreetly hidden and reduces significantly in prominence over time.

Is Otoplasty Painful?

Most patients report only mild discomfort or tightness for the first few days, which can be managed easily with prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication.

Are the Results of Otoplasty Permanent?

Yes. Once healed, otoplasty results are permanent. The ears maintain their new shape and position for life, though normal aging or injury may still affect their appearance over time.

What Are the Risks of Otoplasty?

  • Infection or bleeding
  • Asymmetry or overcorrection
  • Scarring or skin sensation changes
  • Occasionally, the need for revision surgery

Selecting an experienced, board-certified surgeon reduces these risks.

Will Otoplasty Impact My Hearing?

No. Otoplasty is a cosmetic procedure that alters the shape of the outer ear only. It has no impact on hearing function, which is regulated by the inner and middle ear.

Want to Feel More Confident About Your Ears?

Otoplasty is an effective and safe operation that can have a significant impact on facial harmony and self-esteem. Make an appointment to learn more about your choices and obtain a personalized treatment plan specifically designed for you.

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