Asymmetry and prominent ears are common among both adults and children. In such cases, people often turn to ear plastic surgery, or otoplasty, one of the most frequently performed surgical procedures worldwide.
Indications
- Prominent ears
- Ear asymmetry
- Deformities and injuries of the ear cartilage and lobes
How is Otoplasty Performed?
Otoplasty is a completely safe surgical procedure, typically performed for two purposes: reconstructive (when restoration of part or all of the ear is needed) and aesthetic (to change the appearance, shape, size, or position of the ear).
In both cases, only the external ear is altered, with no effect on hearing. For adults, otoplasty is done as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia. In children under the age of 8, general anesthesia is used to help keep them calm during the procedure. The surgery can last from 30 minutes to 1-2 hours, depending on its complexity.
Among the types of ear plastic surgery, correcting prominent ears is one of the most requested. This involves reshaping the cartilage to create a natural contour and positioning the ears closer to the head.
Postoperative process
Unlike other plastic surgeries, the results of otoplasty are visible immediately after the procedure. Initially, the recovery period may be accompanied by pain, which significantly subsides within 4-5 days. Bruising around the ears fades within approximately two weeks, while swelling decreases over about two months. Full recovery typically takes around 5-6 months.
