Protruding ears are the most common aesthetic concern affecting the ears.
Because of this condition—usually evident from birth—the ears stick out more or less from the head and appear prominent. The procedure to correct this issue is otoplasty: here’s how it works.
How protruding ears are corrected with otoplasty
Otoplasty brings the ears closer to the head and recreates the normal cartilage folds. The retroauricular sulcus—the area where eyeglass arms (temples) rest—remains unchanged.
Since the concern is due to a shape/position anomaly of the cartilage framework, otoplasty reshapes and sculpts this tissue to achieve a more harmonious, aesthetically pleasing contour.
At the end of surgery, the ear cartilage is usually stabilized with internal sutures that dissolve on their own and therefore do not need removal.
The skin incision used to access the auricular cartilage is hidden in the retroauricular groove and is therefore not visible.
No haircut is required for otoplasty, and normal daily activities can typically be resumed from the next day.
Results are visible immediately and continue to improve over the following weeks.
Type of anesthesia used during otoplasty
In adults and in teens over 13–14 years, otoplasty can be performed under local anesthesia on an outpatient basis without hospitalization, while general anesthesia is preferable for younger children due to potential restlessness.
Beyond protrusion: can otoplasty also change ear shape?
Besides “protruding ears,” several cosmetic ear issues can be corrected with otoplasty.
These include abnormal folding of the upper portion (lop-ear deformity), loss of the upper antihelical fold or rim (often called “cup” or “shell” ear), and earlobe deformities.
Please discuss with the surgeon the options and strategy most suitable for your specific case.
FAQ
Do you have questions about otoplasty?
Read here first.
Otoplasty can be performed from preschool age, as the ears complete most of their growth around age 5.
The scar lies on the back surface of the ear (auricle), in a discreet location toward the hair.
No. Your hair will simply be secured so it does not interfere with the procedure.
Yes. Otoplasty preserves the retroauricular sulcus, so wearing eyeglasses will not be a problem.
