Prominent Ear Surgery?

Prominent ears occur when the ears stick out more than usual or are positioned at a wider angle from the head. While it is not a medical problem, it can sometimes cause individuals—especially children and adolescents—to feel self-conscious. The surgical procedure to correct this permanently is called prominent ear surgery or otoplasty.

The goal of otoplasty is to reduce the angle between the head and the ear and to reshape the ear for a more natural appearance. The procedure can be performed under local anesthesia in adults, while general anesthesia is often preferred in children. During the operation, small incisions are made behind the ear, the cartilage is reshaped, and the ear is positioned closer to the head. This adjustment can improve the ear’s appearance in a lasting way.

What Causes Prominent Ears?

The most common causes of prominent ears include underdeveloped ear cartilage, the absence of the upper fold (antihelix), or overly large conchae. Hereditary factors can play a role, and similar appearances are often observed among family members.
Protruding ears are usually noticed in childhood. While they may be present at birth, the condition typically becomes permanent with age and can generally only be corrected surgically.

Pre-Operative Preparation

Before surgery, the structure of the ear is carefully examined to decide which technique is most appropriate and to understand the patient’s expectations. For children, the operation is usually performed under general anesthesia, while local anesthesia is often sufficient for adults.
It is important for patients to avoid blood-thinning medications before surgery, stop smoking, and undergo a general health check.

The Surgical Procedure

Prominent ear surgery typically takes between 45 minutes and 1.5 hours. Small incisions are made behind the ear, and the cartilage is reshaped or partially removed as needed to position the ear closer to the head.
Because the incisions are placed behind the ear, they are not usually visible. After the procedure, a special bandage is applied to help the ears maintain their new position.

Recovery Process

In the first few days after surgery, swelling, redness, or mild sensitivity in the ears may occur, but these usually subside quickly.
A bandage is worn during the first week, and after that, a protective band is often recommended, especially at night, for 2–3 weeks. Dissolvable stitches may be used, or they may need to be removed after 7–10 days. Most patients return to their normal daily activities within about a week, although full recovery and the final results may take several weeks to a few months.

Who Is It Suitable For?

Prominent ear surgery may be considered for anyone who feels dissatisfied with the appearance of their ears, experiences aesthetic concerns, or feels negatively affected in daily life because of them. For children, it is best performed after the ears have fully developed, typically after the age of 6. In adults, there is no strict age limit, but overall health must be suitable for surgery.

Possible Benefits of Prominent Ear Surgery

Prominent ear surgery can bring the ears into a more proportional position. In children, correcting the appearance of the ears may help reduce social challenges, while in adults, it may improve satisfaction with their appearance. Because the procedure offers a long-term solution, it can be beneficial for many patients.

Prominent ear surgery is generally considered safe and can be performed in both children and adults. As with all surgical procedures, potential risks and the recovery process may vary depending on the individual.