What Is Prominent Ear Surgery (Otoplasty)?

Prominent ear surgery is known as otoplasty. Otoplasty is a surgical procedure performed to bring the ears closer to the head and achieve a more aesthetically natural appearance. Otoplasty is generally preferred in cases where the ears are excessively large or protruding. However, it must be carefully planned to avoid damaging the natural structure of the ears and to achieve the most natural aesthetic result.

Otoplasty is not only performed for cosmetic reasons. In some individuals, the shape of the ears can lead to bullying or teasing in social life. Such situations can affect a person’s self-confidence. Through prominent ear surgery, the ears are made symmetrical and positioned closer to the head. This can enhance self-confidence and eliminate challenges in social interactions.

The main goal of prominent ear surgery is to bring the ears closer to the head and achieve a symmetrical appearance. The fundamental steps of this surgery are as follows:

• Shaping the Ear Cartilage: Structurally correcting the ear cartilage is a key step in otoplasty. The cartilage is shaped to direct the ears closer to the head. The protruding area of the ear can be filed, or the cartilage can be adjusted to achieve the desired shape.
• Correcting the Position of the Ears: The ears are pulled closer to the head and made symmetrical. Sutures are placed behind the ears for this purpose. The sutures help the ears stay in a position closer to the head.
• Surgical Technique: Prominent ear surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia. With this method, the patient remains awake but does not feel pain during the procedure. Local anesthesia ensures the patient’s comfort during the operation. In some cases, general anesthesia may also be preferred to make the procedure more comfortable for the patient.

Prominent ear surgery offers numerous aesthetic and psychological benefits:

• Improvement in Aesthetic Appearance: The ears are positioned closer to the head and made symmetrical. This enhances the individual’s external appearance and provides a natural look.
• Increase in Self-Confidence: Individuals with prominent ear issues experience a significant boost in self-confidence after resolving this aesthetic concern. The fear of teasing and social exclusion is eliminated.
• Psychological Benefits: Especially for children and adolescents, prominent ear surgery can prevent bullying in social settings. After the surgery, individuals can lead a psychologically healthier life.

• Preoperative Preparations: Before the surgery, the patient’s health status is thoroughly evaluated. Any allergic reactions to anesthesia or other health issues are checked. Additionally, the patient is informed about the preoperative instructions.
• Surgery Procedure: The surgery typically lasts 1–2 hours. After correcting the aesthetic irregularities between the ears, the shape is secured with sutures placed behind the ears.
• Postoperative Process: After surgery, patients can usually be discharged within a few hours. The ears may be slightly swollen and bruised for a few days. However, this is temporary and usually resolves within a few days.

• Infection Risk: As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection. This risk can be minimized by carefully following the doctor’s recommendations.
• Scarring and Asymmetry: The scar usually remains behind the ear and does not become prominent over time. However, in some cases, a slight scar may remain. Additionally, there may be minor asymmetry between the ears, which can generally be corrected with additional procedures.

Prominent ear surgery is an effective solution that allows individuals to live a more comfortable life both aesthetically and psychologically. Suitable for children, adolescents, and adults, this operation helps the ears achieve a more symmetrical appearance and be positioned closer to the head. The postoperative recovery process is quick, and the risk of complications is low.

If you have a prominent ear issue that is bothersome, consulting with an experienced plastic surgeon and evaluating the appropriate treatment options for you is an important step. The aesthetic results achieved after surgery can boost your self-confidence and improve your quality of life.