Otoplasty
FACIAL SURGERY

Otoplasty

Otoplasty is a surgical procedure in which a plastic surgeon modifies and corrects the protruding ears. This is a relatively common congenital anomaly caused by either conchal hypertrophy or the absence of the antihelix of the ear-often, both conditions coexist. The condition usually affects both ears but can sometimes occur on only one side.

Otoplasty corrects this anomaly by modifying the cartilage of the ear and reducing its projection from the head, resulting in a more harmonious and natural appearance., resulting in a more harmonious and natural appearance.

BRIEFLY

Duration of procedure

Procedure time
1-2 hours

Type of anesthesia

Anesthesia
Local (General in children)

Hospital stay days

Hospital stay
3-4 hours

Return to work after surgery

Back to the office
7-10 days

The Procedure

Otoplasty can be performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on the patient’s age or personal preference. In teenagers and adults, the surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia, allowing the patient to return home the same day. In children, general anesthesia is usually preferred, as they may struggle to remain still during the procedure. In such cases, an overnight stay at the clinic for observation may be required. Surgery takes approximately two hours, with the incision made on the back side of the ear, ensuring that the scar remains hidden. Absorbable sutures are used for closure, eliminating the need for removal.

Regarding Otoplasty

After surgery, the patient must wear an elastic bandage for one week to protect the operated area. After bandage removal and for the following 10 weeks, it is recommended to wear an elastic headband (such as a sports headband) during sleep in order to prevent accidental injury to the ears.

Postoperative pain is mild and manageable with common pain relievers. Some minor bruising and swelling may occur in the first few days but these will gradually subside.

  • Intense physical activity should be avoided for 2–3 weeks.
  • Contact sports are allowed after two months.

The earlobe is the lower, soft part of the ear and may present with aesthetic problems.

  • Large earlobes often appear with age.
  • Torn or split earlobes may result from wearing earrings or piercing.

Earlobe correction is performed under local anesthesia, yields excellent results, and leaves no visible scars. It is often combined with otoplasty for a comprehensive aesthetic enhancement of the ears.

Ωτοπλαστικη πρινΩτοπλαστικη μετα

What Otoplasty Corrects

Otoplasty significantly enhances the aesthetic appearance of the ear. Surgical improvements include:

  • A discreet incision on the back of the ear to keep scarring minimal.
  • Correction of the ear's projection from the head.
  • Formation of the antihelix to fix the upper part of the ear’s protrusion.
  • Reduction or reshaping of the earlobes, if necessary, for a complete and more natural result.

Photos Before & After

DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS?

What You Need to Know

The ear is about 85–90% developed by the age of 5–6, making this a safe age for surgical correction. Early intervention is recommended to prevent potential psychological distress from peer comments. Otoplasty can be performed at any age.

Pain is mild and can be managed with common pain relievers.

Most patients resume their daily activities within a few days, avoiding intense exercise for about a month.

The incision is made behind the ear, making it nearly invisible.

In very rare cases, partial recurrence may occur. If correction is needed, this can be done under local anesthesia.

The total cost of this operation primarily depends on the type of anesthesia used (local or general) and is determined after a clinical evaluation.

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