Otoplasty (Ear Surgery)

Otoplasty is primarily performed to reduce ear size or correct prominent, protruding ears. In plastic surgery, prominent ears (bat ears / protruding ears) occur when the pinna stands out abnormally from the side of the head due to an underdeveloped antihelical fold or an enlarged conchal cartilage bowl.

PROMINENT EAR SURGERY
Prominent ears are frequently mistaken for oversized ears. However, the true etiology is the absence of natural folds, causing the auricle to project forward at an abnormally wide angle. Otoplasty repositions the auricle into physiological harmony with the cranial framework.

SURGICAL PROCEDURES
Otoplasty brings protruding ears closer to the scalp and recreates the delicate natural antihelical fold. The procedure is typically performed from age 5 to 6 onward, prior to school entry. Incisions are discreetly placed along the posterior ear crease behind the ear. Cartilage is reshaped with permanent internal scoring and sutures, establishing natural contours without external visibility.

ANESTHESIA AND PROCEDURE DURATION
Otoplasty is conducted under general anesthesia in young children and under local anesthesia with conscious sedation in adolescents and adults. Operating time is typically 1 to 1.5 hours.

RECOVERY TIMELINE
A protective soft dressing is worn for the first 2 to 3 days, followed by a light elastic headband worn primarily during sleep for 2 to 3 weeks to protect the newly set cartilage. Normal work or school activities can be resumed within several days.