Otoplasty (Ear Surgery)

Otoplasty corrects prominent ears and other shape problems of the outer ear by reshaping the cartilage through an incision hidden behind the ear. It can be done for school-age children and for adults of any age.

Why Ears Stand Out

Prominent ears are rarely about size. In most cases the fold in the upper part of the ear never formed properly, the bowl of cartilage around the ear canal is unusually deep, or both. Otoplasty recreates the missing fold and reduces the bowl where needed, bringing the ears closer to the head in a natural position. Torn or stretched earlobes can also be repaired, usually as a minor procedure under local anesthesia.

Who It Suits

Because the outer ear reaches most of its adult size in childhood, otoplasty can be done for school-age children, provided the child wants it and can cooperate. There is no upper age limit for adults, although stiffer adult cartilage can change the technique. Surgery is postponed during an active ear infection and for people with a bleeding disorder, and anyone prone to thick keloid scars discusses that risk separately.

How the Operation Is Done

The operation takes about an hour, usually under general anesthesia for children and local anesthesia for adults. The incision is placed in the groove where the back of the ear meets the head, so it cannot be seen from the front. Permanent stitches shape the new fold and hold the ear closer to the head, and a soft dressing protects it at the end. Each ear is assessed separately at the consultation with plastic surgeon Op. Dr. Toygar Ünveren at our Etiler clinic.

Recovery

Throbbing and tenderness are common for a few days, and the first dressing usually comes off within a week. After that a soft headband is worn for several weeks, especially at night, and hats, helmets and sleeping on the side need care. Most people return to school or desk work in about a week; contact sports wait longer. The operation changes only the outer ear, so hearing is not affected.

Risks to Discuss

Temporary numbness of the ear skin, a thickened scar behind the ear, small differences between the two sides and, rarely, partial return of the prominence if a stitch loosens over time can occur. A blood collection or cartilage infection is uncommon but needs early treatment, so increasing one-sided pain, marked swelling, redness or fever should be reported straight away.

Planning Your Trip to Istanbul

If you are traveling from abroad, the first consultation can be held remotely before you book your trip, so you arrive with a clear plan. If you are traveling with a child, plan to stay until the first dressing is removed at the follow-up visit, within the first week.

Book a Consultation

Interested in Otoplasty? Contact us to schedule a personalised consultation with our specialists.