What the procedure is
Otoplasty treats ears that stand away from the head, or the absence of the natural cartilage fold, by reshaping the cartilage and securing it closer to the head.
It is performed in adults and children. In children it is usually preferred once ear growth is largely complete — commonly from around five to six years of age — and before prominence becomes a source of distress at school.
The operation addresses shape and has no bearing on hearing.
Who is a suitable candidate
- Children once ear growth is largely complete, and adults of any age.
- People in good general health.
- For children, it matters that the child is themselves bothered by the appearance and wants the correction, rather than the decision being driven by parents alone.
How it is performed
Performed under local anaesthesia in adults and usually under general anaesthesia in children, taking about one to two hours.
The incision lies behind the ear, and the cartilage is reshaped with sutures and sometimes by removing a portion of it.
A head dressing is worn for several days.
Recovery
- Discharge the same day.
- The dressing is replaced by a headband worn at night for several weeks as directed.
- Return to school or work is often within one week to ten days.
- Contact sports are avoided for several weeks.
Scars
The scar lies in the fold behind the ear and is largely concealed.
Risks and complications
Every operation carries risk. This is an educational list, not an exhaustive one; the risks specific to your case are discussed during consultation.
- Risks of anaesthesia.
- Partial recurrence of prominence if sutures loosen.
- Asymmetry between the two ears.
- Haematoma, which requires prompt intervention.
- Infection; infection of ear cartilage requires immediate treatment.
- Thickened or keloid scarring, which does occur in this area.
- Temporary numbness of the ear skin.
Combining with other procedures
Usually performed as a standalone procedure. It may be combined with other facial procedures in adults.
Common questions
What age is suitable for children?
Commonly from around five to six years of age, once the ear is close to its final size. Timing is assessed individually, taking into account how far the child themselves is bothered.