Who Should Get Ear Surgery?

Candidates for ear surgery should be healthy and have fully developed ears, which usually occurs around five to six years of age.

Otoplasty can treat

• Protruding ears
• Oversized ears

• Asymmetric ears
• Irregular ear shape

The goal of ear surgery is to enhance the natural proportions of the face and restore a sense of balance. The reshaped ears should be symmetrical and should emerge from the head at a natural angle, without a pinned-back appearance. Both ears are typically treated during the same surgery.

What to Expect During Your Ear Surgery

The techniques used during ear surgery will vary depending on the type of correction being performed. During ear angle adjustment, incisions are made behind the ear, hidden in the natural ear folds. Cartilage and tissue are removed or reshaped so the ear position can be adjusted.

Once the improved position has been achieved, the incisions are closed with fine sutures for minimal scarring. In some cases, incisions will be necessary on the front of the ear, as well. When possible, incisions will be hidden within the natural folds of the ear.

After Your Otoplasty Surgery

After the procedure, gauze or bandages are applied to protect the ears from infection. A head band or compression dressing is applied for the first few weeks to maintain the new position. Some swelling and bruising is likely, which resolves over the course of a few weeks.

In most cases, normal activities can be resumed in 7-10 days, though strenuous activity should be avoided for at least a few weeks. The ears should be protected from accidental impact for the first few months.