What Is Otoplasty?
Otoplasty is a cosmetic surgical procedure used to correct the shape, position, or proportion of the ears. The most common indication is the correction of protruding ears, often referred to as “prominent ears,” where the ears project outward more than usual.
Such deformities may be congenital or develop after birth, and they often carry psychosocial implications, especially during childhood.
Why Is Otoplasty Performed?
The primary goals of ear aesthetic surgery include:
- Reducing the angle between the ear and the head
- Reshaping the ear cartilage
- Correcting asymmetries
- Repairing trauma-related deformities
- Revising previously unsuccessful otoplasty procedures
Otoplasty is not just cosmetic—it often plays a vital role in boosting self-esteem, particularly in children and adolescents.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
- Children aged 5 or older (when ear cartilage development is complete)
- Adolescents or adults unhappy with ear appearance
- Patients with noticeable asymmetry or shape irregularities
- Individuals needing revision otoplasty
- Anyone in good overall health and with realistic expectations
The Latest Techniques in Otoplasty
Advances in aesthetic surgery have led to less invasive, more refined, and natural-looking outcomes in otoplasty.
1. Classic Open Technique (Stitch Otoplasty)
Still the most widely used method. An incision is made behind the ear, the cartilage is reshaped, and permanent sutures are placed to maintain the new position.
- Performed under local or general anesthesia
- Reliable and long-lasting results
- Healing time: 1–2 weeks
2. Stitchless (Incision-Free) Otoplasty
In selected cases, ear reshaping can be done without skin incisions, using special internal sutures.
- Minimally invasive
- Rapid recovery
- No visible scars
- Suitable only for mild deformities
3. Implant-Based Techniques (Earfold™ Method)
A modern approach using titanium implants placed under the skin to reposition the ears.
- Done in a clinical setting in 20–30 minutes
- No general anesthesia required
- Immediate visual result
- Reversible — the implant can be removed
- FDA approved in select markets
Ideal for patients with well-defined cartilage structure.
4. Laser-Assisted Otoplasty
Lasers are used to soften the cartilage and allow precise reshaping.
- Reduced tissue trauma
- Less postoperative swelling and bruising
- Often used as a complement to other techniques
How Is the Surgery Performed?
- Preoperative assessment: Evaluation of cartilage stiffness, ear symmetry, and skin thickness
- Anesthesia: Local or general
- Incision: Usually hidden behind the ear
- Cartilage reshaping: Bending, scoring, or suturing the cartilage into the desired form
- Closure: Aesthetic sutures are placed to close the incision
- Bandaging: Special dressings or a headband is applied
The average surgical time is 45–90 minutes depending on the technique.
What Is the Recovery Like?
- Days 1–3: Ears are wrapped in protective bandages
- Week 1: Mild pain and swelling expected
- Day 7: Follow-up visit; stitches may be removed
- Week 2: Return to work/school is usually possible
- Month 1: Results are more defined; sports may be resumed
- 6–12 months: Final shape settles; scars fade significantly
Avoid sleeping on the ears and wearing tight headphones for the first few weeks.
Advantages of Modern Otoplasty
- Permanent and symmetrical results
- Natural ear shape with minimal scarring
- Quick return to social activities
- Improved psychological well-being
- Advanced techniques minimize recovery time
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes. Once the cartilage heals in its new position, the results are permanent.
Typically between 45 minutes and 1.5 hours, depending on the method.
No. The incision is usually hidden behind the ear and becomes barely noticeable over time.
The ideal age is 5 years and older, when ear growth is nearly complete.
No. It’s only ideal for mild cases. A thorough evaluation by a plastic surgeon is necessary.
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