Cosmetic Ear Surgery

Cosmetic ear surgery, also known as 'Otoplasty', is a type of plastic surgery performed to change the shape, position or size of the ears. It can be performed in order to correct ear deformities due to injuries or birth defects, and also sometimes to change the aesthetic appearance of the ears if the person is unhappy about the way their ears look. The aim of cosmetic ear surgery is to give the ears and face a balanced, proportional and more natural appearance. Even the correction of minor deformities in the ear can contribute greatly to the appearance and self-esteem of the person.

Cosmetic ear surgeries are performed on the visible part of the outer ear called the 'auricle'. The auricle consists of cartilage folds covered with skin. It begins to develop in the womb and continues to develop in the years after birth.
There are several types of cosmetic ear surgeries:

• Ear Augmentation : Sometimes the ear may be underdeveloped or small. In these cases, it may be desirable to enlarge the outer ears. 
• Ear Pinning : In cases where the ears have a prominent appearance, this surgery aims to bring the ears closer to the head. 
• Ear Reduction : In cases where the ears are larger than normal, this type of surgery is made to reduce the size of the ears. 

Cosmetic ear surgeries are not operations done for functional problems. They neither change the person's ability to hear nor the location of the ears.

What is cosmetic ear surgery (otoplasty)?

Operations performed to change the shape, position or size of the ears are called 'Cosmetic Ear Surgery' (Otoplasty).

What does cosmetic ear surgery treat?

• Overly large ears
• One- or two-sided prominent ears
• Asymmetrical ears
• Small-sized ears as a birth defect
• Trauma-related ear deformities 

How is ear plastic surgery performed?

There are 3 types of cosmetic ear surgery. Ear reduction is performed when the ears are large, ear enlargement is performed for small ears, and ear pinning is performed for prominent ears. Cosmetic ear surgery is typically performed on both ears to ensure symmetry.

Am I a good candidate for cosmetic ear surgery?

If you have asymmetrical looking ears, if you are not satisfied with the size of your ears and/or the position of your ears, if you have a birth defect, if you have a deformity due to trauma, if you do not have medical problems which are life-threatening or that will adversely affect wound healing, you can have cosmetic ear surgery. 
Especially for children who will undergo surgery, it is preferable that they are healthy, do not have any life-threatening diseases or untreated chronic ear infections, and have the perception to understand what is being said and follow instructions well.

Is there an age limit for ear plastic surgery?

After the ears reach their full size, which is usually after the age of 5, ear aesthetics can be performed at any age until adulthood.

What are the risks of ear plastic surgery?

As in all surgical applications, complications such as bleeding, infection and anesthesia may also occur after cosmetic ear surgery. 

What should I do before cosmetic ear surgery?

• Medications: It is recommended to avoid aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements that can increase bleeding.
• Smoking and alcohol: It is recommended to stop smoking and alcohol use one week before the surgery. 

Step-by-step surgery process

Anesthesia: Local or general anesthesia
Surgical procedure: The surgery is performed with the technique which your physician deems appropriate for your condition. 

What should I expect after cosmetic ear surgery?

After the surgery, your ears will be covered with bandages for protection and support. It is very important for the success of the surgery that the bandages are not moved. These bandages will stay on for at least 3 days. You may feel some discomfort and itching after the surgery.  Painkillers should be taken as recommended by your physician. 

What should I pay attention to after cosmetic ear surgery?

You should avoid sleeping on your side to avoid pressure on your ears.  You should also try not to rub the wound sites or apply excessive force. It may be more comfortable to wear shirts with buttons or loose collars. During the healing process, it is important that the surgical incisions are not exposed to excessive force, sunlight or solarium light, abrasion or movement.

How long should I rest after ear plastic surgery?

Resting at home for 4 days after the surgery is sufficient.

How long after ear plastic surgery can I return to work?

You can return to work after 4-5 days. 

What is the recovery time for cosmetic ear surgery?

Your bandages are removed 3 days after surgery. Swelling and redness in the ears will probably persist to a small extent. You may need to wear a loose headband that covers your ears at night for 3 weeks. This band will prevent you from pulling your ears forward when turning over in bed. The results of ear plastic surgery are permanent, but there is always the possibility of revision surgery. After a month or two, the ears will fully achieve their new shape.