What otoplasty is
Prominent ears are usually caused by an underdeveloped cartilage fold (the antihelix) or an ear bowl that is too deep. They do not affect hearing, but they can become a source of discomfort, especially for children.
Otoplasty reshapes the ear cartilage and brings the ear closer to the head while keeping a natural look. It is not simply “pinning back” the ear: the folds have to look natural from every angle.
Who it is for
- children from about 5–6 years old, when the ear is close to its final size, ideally before it becomes an issue at school;
- teenagers and adults bothered by the shape or position of their ears;
- people with asymmetric ears.
How the operation is done
In adults otoplasty is usually done under local anaesthesia; in children, under general anaesthesia. It takes about one to two hours. The incision is behind the ear, in the groove between the ear and the head. The cartilage is reshaped with special stitches and, if needed, a little skin or cartilage is removed.
Recovery
- First days: a head bandage and moderate discomfort.
- After about a week: the bandage is replaced with an elastic headband, worn mainly at night for a few weeks.
- 7–10 days: back to school or work.
- 6 weeks: avoid contact sports and pressure on the ears.
Risks and things to know
- slight asymmetry between the ears;
- the ear partly returning towards its original position;
- increased sensitivity to cold in the first months;
- rarely, haematoma, infection or a thickened scar.
Results vary from one patient to another.
