Otoplasty

The ideal candidate

Otoplasty is recommended for people who want to correct protruding ears or auricular asymmetries, in order to achieve a more balanced and harmonious appearance of the face. This procedure is suitable for both children and adults, provided that the ears are fully developed.

• People with protruding ears or with insufficient folds of the auricle
• Patients with obvious asymmetries between the two ears
• The recommended age is usually over 7 years, when the ears are almost fully developed
• Healthy people, without medical conditions that contraindicate the procedure
• Realistic expectations regarding the postoperative result

The technique

The otoplasty procedure consists of reshaping the ear cartilage in order to reduce the prominence and correct the shape. A discreet incision is made behind the ear, through which the surgeon shapes the cartilage and fixes the ear closer to the head, using special sutures. The procedure is personalised according to the particularities of each patient in order to achieve a natural appearance.

Anesthesia and duration

Otoplasty is usually performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, especially in children. The duration of the procedure is on average 1 to 2 hours, depending on the complexity of the necessary correction.

Recovery

The first few days

A compressive bandage is applied for the protection and support of the ears. It is normal for swelling and slight bruising to appear around the operated area.

The first week

The bandage is replaced with an elastic band, which is recommended to be worn at night in order to maintain the correct position of the ears.

The first month

Local trauma and prolonged sun exposure are avoided. Most of the swelling disappears, and the ears take on a more natural and defined shape.

The final results can generally be appreciated after 4-6 weeks, when the tissues have healed completely.

Risks and safety

• Local infection
• Hematoma or postoperative bleeding
• Residual asymmetry of the ears
• Formation of visible or hypertrophic scars
• Temporary changes in skin sensitivity

These risks are minimised through careful preoperative evaluation, adequate surgical technique and adherence to the postoperative instructions.

Frequently asked questions

How long does complete recovery take after otoplasty?

The initial recovery lasts approximately 1-2 weeks, during which the recommended protection must be worn. The final results can be observed after 4-6 weeks, when the tissues are completely healed.

Will visible scars remain after the procedure?

The incisions are made behind the ear, so that the scars are discreet and, generally, difficult to notice once healed.

Can the ears return to their initial shape after an otoplasty?

The fixation of the ears is done with resistant sutures, and the result is, generally, stable in the long term. However, trauma or significant changes may affect the shape of the ears.

Is the procedure and postoperative period painful?

The pain is usually moderate and can be controlled effectively with prescribed analgesics. The discomfort is more intense in the first days after the operation and gradually decreases.