What Are Prominent Ears and What Causes Them?
A prominent ear typically sticks out more than 20–30 degrees from the side of the head. It may be due to:
- Underdeveloped antihelical fold
- Excess cartilage in the conchal area
- Genetic predisposition
- Can occur on one or both sides and is usually congenital (present from birth)
Though it doesn’t impair hearing, it can lead to low self-esteem, teasing in children, and social discomfort.
What Is Otoplasty (Ear Pinning Surgery)?
Otoplasty is a cosmetic surgery that reshapes or repositions the outer ear to create a more balanced appearance. The goal is to bring the ear closer to the head and enhance symmetry, usually by creating or enhancing the natural ear folds and correcting cartilage structure.
How Does the Surgery Work?
1. Ideal Age for Surgery
- Recommended from the age of 5–6, when the ear has reached 90% of its adult size
- Also commonly performed in teenagers and adults
2. Type of Anesthesia
- General anesthesia for children
- Local anesthesia with sedation for adults
3. Surgery Duration
- Procedure takes approximately 45–90 minutes
- Typically a same-day outpatient procedure
4. Surgical Technique
- A small incision behind the ear allows access to the cartilage
- Cartilage is reshaped or partially removed
- Permanent sutures are used to maintain the new shape
- The incision is hidden behind the ear, leaving minimal visible scarring
Recovery Process After Otoplasty
- Mild pain and swelling are expected in the first few days; managed with oral painkillers
- Headband or bandages are worn for 3–5 days for protection
- Stitches are removed after one week, unless absorbable sutures are used
- Avoid swimming, contact sports, and strenuous activity for 2–3 weeks
- Ears settle into their final shape within 4–6 weeks
Most patients return to work or school in 5–7 days
Benefits of Ear Pinning Surgery
- Delivers symmetrical and permanent results
- Fast recovery with minimal downtime
- Helps prevent psychological issues, especially in children
- Scars are hidden and typically fade over time
- Safe under local anesthesia in adults
Who Is a Good Candidate for Otoplasty?
- Children or adults with noticeably protruding ears
- Individuals with asymmetrical ear positions
- Patients who feel self-conscious or socially affected by ear appearance
- Those seeking revision surgery after a previous otoplasty
Each case should be individually assessed and planned by an experienced plastic surgeon to ensure the best results.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes. Properly performed otoplasty offers long-lasting, stable outcomes.
Incisions are placed behind the ear, so scars are well hidden and fade significantly over time.
Some mild discomfort may occur in the first few days, but it’s generally well tolerated.
Minor asymmetries can occur and may be corrected with revision surgery if needed.
Surgeon experience, anesthesia type, clinic location, and procedure complexity all influence pricing.
