Otoplasty (Prominent Ear Surgery)

Prominent Ear Surgery

Prominent ear surgery (otoplasty) is a surgical procedure performed to correct ears that are more prominent and protruding than normal, by bringing them closer to the head and giving them a more natural appearance. This surgery plays an important role in correcting prominent ear deformity, which can cause psychological and social problems, especially during childhood. Otoplasty involves techniques such as reshaping the ear cartilage, removing excess cartilage tissue, and positioning the ears closer to the head. The surgery is usually performed under local or general anesthesia and can significantly improve the patient’s quality of life.

Types of Prominent Ear Surgery

Prominent ear surgery (otoplasty) types vary depending on the techniques used and the condition of the ear cartilage. Here are the common types of prominent ear surgery:

Traditional Surgery (Classic Otoplasty)

  • In this method, a small incision is made behind the ear.
  • After reaching the cartilage, excess cartilage tissue is removed or reshaped.
  • Sutures are used to reduce the angle between the ear and the head.
  • This method is preferred in complex prominent ear cases and in severe cartilage deformities.

Thread Otoplasty (Suture Method)

  • This is a minimally invasive method.
  • Without making an incision, special surgical threads are used to shape the ear cartilage.
  • It is a less traumatic procedure with a shorter recovery period.
  • It is suitable for mild to moderate prominent ear problems.

Laser Otoplasty

  • Cartilage reshaping is performed using laser technology.
  • It can be a more precise procedure and may reduce the risk of bleeding.
  • However, laser otoplasty is not as common as traditional surgery.

Cartilage Cutting or Scoring Techniques

  • In these techniques, excess cartilage tissue is cut or scored to reshape the ear.
  • These are usually used together with traditional surgery.

Why Is Prominent Ear Surgery Performed?

Prominent ear surgery, medically known as otoplasty, is a surgical procedure applied when the ear pinna is more prominent and protrudes forward compared to the head. It is performed to eliminate aesthetic concerns and prevent psychological discomfort.

Reasons for Prominent Ear Surgery:

  • Aesthetic Concerns:

    • Prominent ears can cause individuals to feel uncomfortable about their appearance and lead to a lack of self-confidence.

    • Especially during childhood and adolescence, there is a risk of being exposed to peer bullying.

    • Adults may also prefer this surgery to feel better in their social and professional lives.

  • Congenital Anomalies:

    • In some individuals, prominent ears can occur due to anomalies during ear cartilage development.

    • Failure of the folds in the upper part of the ear to form, having a flat structure of the ear pinna, a very wide angle between the ear pinna and the skull bone behind the ear, and having flexible ear cartilage are among congenital anomalies.

  • Deformations Due to Trauma:

    • Accidents or injuries can cause deformities in the ear pinna.

    • These deformities can lead to a prominent ear appearance or worsen the existing condition.

  • Psychological Discomfort:

    • Prominent ears can cause psychological discomfort, anxiety, and depression in some individuals.

    • This condition can negatively affect the person’s social and professional life.

How Is Prominent Ear Surgery Performed?

Prominent ear surgery can be performed using different techniques depending on the patient’s age, ear structure, and the surgeon’s preference.

In general, the steps are as follows:

  • Anesthesia: General anesthesia is usually preferred for children, while local anesthesia can be used for adults.

  • Incision: In most cases, a small incision is made in the natural fold behind the ear. In some cases, an incision can also be made in front of the ear.

  • Cartilage Shaping: After reaching the cartilage, excess cartilage tissue is removed or reshaped. Stitches are used to reduce the angle between the ear and the head.

  • Stitches and Dressing: The incision is closed and a bandage or dressing is applied to the ears.

Surgical Techniques:

  • Classical Surgery: An incision is made behind the ear to access and shape the cartilage.

  • Thread Otoplasty: The cartilage is shaped with special threads without making an incision. It is a less invasive method.

  • Laser Otoplasty: The cartilage shaping process is performed using laser technology.

Who Is Prominent Ear Surgery Suitable For?

Prominent ear surgery is generally performed for aesthetic reasons. The surgery may be recommended in the following situations:

  • Aesthetic Concerns: If prominent ears affect a person’s appearance and cause aesthetic discomfort.

  • Self-Confidence Issues: If the person experiences low self-esteem or feels uncomfortable in social life due to prominent ears.

  • Ear Infections: Prominent ears can increase susceptibility to ear infections. Surgery can correct the shape of the ear and help reduce the risk of infections.

  • Psychological Effects: Prominent ears can lead to psychological problems in some people. The surgery can help boost self-confidence and reduce psychological distress.

After Prominent Ear Surgery

The recovery process after prominent ear surgery (otoplasty) is generally quick and smooth. However, for a successful surgery and faster healing, you should pay attention to some important points.

Here are the things to watch out for after prominent ear surgery:

First Days After Surgery:

  • Pain and discomfort: Mild pain, swelling, and bruising are normal after surgery. You can use painkillers as recommended by your doctor.

  • Bandage: Your ears will usually be covered with a bandage or dressing. This helps maintain the new shape of the ears and reduces swelling. Change or remove the bandage as your doctor instructs.

  • Sleep: Try to sleep on your back and avoid putting pressure on your ears.

  • Activity: Avoid heavy exercise and contact sports.

  • Hygiene: Keep your ears clean and dry. Do not bathe or shower until your doctor allows it.

First Week:

  • Stitches: Usually, the stitches dissolve on their own. If you have non-dissolvable stitches, your doctor will remove them after about a week.

  • Bandage: You may remove or replace the bandage with a lighter one according to your doctor’s instructions.

  • Activity: You can start light activities but still avoid heavy exercise.

  • Healing: Swelling and bruising should start to decrease.

First Month:

  • Protect your ears: Avoid blows or trauma to your ears.

  • Hats: Do not wear hats until your doctor allows it.

  • Sun exposure: Protect your ears from direct sunlight.

  • Healing: The new shape of your ears should start to settle.

Long Term:

  • Ear care: Continue keeping your ears clean and have regular check-ups.

  • Results: The results of prominent ear surgery are generally permanent.

Postoperative Care Instructions for Prominent Ear Surgery?

The recovery process after prominent ear surgery is an important period to ensure the success of the surgery and the patient's comfort. Here are some important points to pay attention to during this period:

First Days After Surgery:

Rest:

  • Make sure to rest especially in the first days after surgery.

  • Use pillows that keep your head elevated while sleeping.

Pain and Swelling:

  • Mild pain, swelling, and bruising may occur after surgery.

  • Regularly use the painkillers prescribed by your doctor.

  • Applying ice will help reduce swelling.

Dressings and Bandages:

  • Keep the surgical area clean and dry.

  • Care for the dressings and bandages as advised by your doctor.

  • It is very important to keep the bandages dry for the first few days.

Medications:

  • Use the antibiotics and other medications prescribed by your doctor regularly.

Precautions During the Recovery Process:

Protection of the Ears:

  • Protect your ears from impacts and bumps.

  • Especially children should avoid touching or playing with their ears.

  • Be careful not to bend your ear while sleeping.

Clothing:

  • Be careful when putting on and taking off clothes to avoid damaging your ears.

  • Avoid clothes that may put pressure on your ears.

Activities:

  • Avoid sports and other strenuous activities for several weeks after surgery.

Hair Bands:

  • Use a hairband or ear band as recommended by your doctor, especially during the first few weeks and while sleeping at night.

Wound Care:

  • Antibiotic creams should be applied regularly behind the ear for the duration recommended by your doctor.

Bathing:

  • You can bathe after the bandages are removed (usually after 3 days).

  • Avoid very hot water while bathing.

Glasses Use:

  • Glasses can be worn starting from the first week with your doctor's approval and if there is no pain.

Doctor Check-ups:

  • Attend the follow-up appointments regularly as determined by your doctor.

Risks of Prominent Ear Surgery

Like any surgical procedure, prominent ear surgery carries some risks. These include:

  • Infection: There is a risk of infection after surgery.
  • Bleeding: There is a risk of bleeding after surgery.
  • Changes in Ear Shape: The shape of the ear after surgery may not be exactly as desired.
  • Wound Healing Problems: Problems may occur during wound healing after surgery.
  • Anesthesia-Related Complications: Some complications related to anesthesia may arise.

Prominent Ear Surgery at A Life

  • Experienced medical team: A Life Health Group has a team of experienced doctors specialized in ear, nose, throat diseases, and plastic surgery.
  • State-of-the-art technology: A Life Health Group performs prominent ear surgeries using the latest technology.
  • Safe and comfortable environment: A Life Health Group ensures patients receive treatment in a safe and comfortable setting.
  • Personalized treatment: A Life Health Group prepares individualized treatment plans for each patient.
  • Affordable prices: A Life Health Group offers services at reasonable prices.

Contact us for more information about prominent ear surgery!

As A Life Health Group, we are here to determine the best treatment option for you and to inform you about the prominent ear surgery process. We are waiting for you!

Frequently Asked Questions About Prominent Ear Surgery?

Thread Prominent Ear Surgery

Thread The thread prominent ear surgery is a minimally invasive aesthetic procedure developed as an alternative to traditional surgical methods. In this method, without making incisions behind the ear, the shape of the ear is corrected using special surgical threads.

Postoperative Complaints After Prominent Ear Surgery

  • Pain: Pain in the ear after surgery is normal. You can control the pain with the painkillers prescribed by your doctor.
  • Swelling: Swelling may occur in the ear after surgery.
  • Bleeding: There may be slight bleeding from the ear after surgery.
  • Infection: There is a risk of infection after surgery.
  • Changes in Ear Shape: The shape of the ear after surgery may not be exactly as you desire.

Ear Surgery Prices

Ear surgery prices vary depending on many factors. These factors include the patient's ear structure, the scope of the surgery, the techniques used, and the facilities of our hospital.

  • For the most accurate and up-to-date price information, please contact the relevant departments of A Life Health Group.
  • Our patient consultants will provide detailed information about the surgery cost after a personalized assessment.

Otoplasty Surgery Ankara

In Ankara, as A Life Health Group, we offer modern and effective solutions for prominent ear problems. Our expert medical team and cutting-edge surgical techniques are here to help you overcome your aesthetic concerns and the psychological discomfort caused by prominent ears.

How Much Does Otoplasty Surgery Cost?

As A Life Health Group, we aim to improve your quality of life by providing permanent and aesthetic solutions to your prominent ear problems. Please contact us for more detailed information and to schedule an appointment.

How Long Does Otoplasty Surgery Take?

The duration of otoplasty surgery varies depending on the techniques used and the degree of ear deformity. Here is the general information:

  • Classical Otoplasty Surgery:
    • Usually lasts between 1 to 2 hours.
    • This duration may be longer in more complex cases.
  • Suture Otoplasty Surgery:
    • This procedure takes less time. It can be completed in an average of 30 to 60 minutes.

However, since each patient's condition is different, the surgery duration may vary. The most accurate information about your estimated surgery time will be provided by the surgeon performing the operation.

At What Age Is Otoplasty Surgery Performed?

Otoplasty surgery can be performed at any age. However, the ideal age range and timing of the surgery may vary depending on several factors. Here are some important points regarding age and otoplasty surgery:

Otoplasty in Children:

  • A large part of ear development is completed around ages 5-6. Therefore, the ideal age range for surgery is generally this period.
  • Some advantages of surgery at an early age include:
    • Children can be protected from psychological issues caused by prominent ears before starting school.

    • Since the cartilage tissue is more flexible, the surgery can be easier and recovery faster.

  • However, it is important that the child is mature enough for the surgery and can understand the process.

Otoplasty in Adults:

  • Otoplasty surgery can also be successfully performed in adults.
  • Adults can make a more informed decision about the surgery and can better manage post-operative care.
  • This operation can also be successfully performed under local anesthesia in elderly patients.
  • The recovery process in adults may generally take a bit longer compared to children.
Prepared by A Life Medical Editorial Board.

Last Updated: 6 Kasım 2025 14:05

Publish Date: 30 Temmuz 2024 02:41

Otoplasty (Prominent Ear Surgery)

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