This website contains imagery that is only suitable for audiences 18+. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks.
This website contains imagery that is only suitable for audiences 18+. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks.
Otoplasty is a surgical procedure that may be considered to change ear shape, position, or symmetry in selected patients. It is commonly discussed for prominent ears or ear asymmetry. A consultation is required to confirm suitability and to discuss expected change, scarring, recovery, and risks. Outcomes vary.
Otoplasty techniques may involve reshaping cartilage and/or repositioning the ear closer to the head using sutures and cartilage modification. Incisions are often placed behind the ear to reduce visibility, but scars are permanent and vary in appearance.
Potential physical changes may include:
– Change in ear prominence and position (degree varies).
– Change in ear shape or fold definition in selected cases.
– Improved symmetry in some patients (symmetry cannot be guaranteed).
Outcomes depend on cartilage characteristics, healing response, and technique.
A suitable candidate is generally a healthy child or adult seeking assessment for ear shape/position concerns, with realistic expectations and willingness to follow aftercare instructions (including wearing dressings/headband if advised).
You May Be a Good Candidate If
– You have prominent ears or ear asymmetry you would like assessed.
– You understand that scars are permanent and outcomes vary.
– You can follow post‑operative instructions and attend follow‑up.
– You have an active ear infection or skin infection at the site.
– You have uncontrolled medical conditions that increase surgical risk.
– You have unrealistic expectations about outcomes or symmetry.
Technique selection is individual and based on your anatomy, goals and safety considerations. Options may include:
– Cartilage reshaping and suturing techniques: selected based on anatomy and cartilage stiffness.
– Incision placement: commonly behind the ear to minimise visibility; scar visibility varies.
– Addressing asymmetry (selected cases): surgical planning aims to improve balance but symmetry varies.
Your clinician/surgeon will explain the recommended approach and expected trade‑offs during consultation.
Anesthesia
Often performed under local anaesthesia with sedation or general anaesthesia depending on age, extent and patient factors.
You will receive individual instructions. Common requirements may include:
– Medication and supplement review, including anything that can increase bleeding risk (as advised).
– Nicotine cessation for the recommended period before and after treatment/surgery (if applicable).
– Planning time off work, transport, and at-home support (where relevant).
– Fasting instructions prior to anaesthesia (if applicable).
– Pre-operative assessments/tests as advised by your treating team.
– Return to Work/School: often 1–2 weeks depending on comfort and dressings.
– Return to Exercise: contact sports are usually restricted longer; timing is surgeon‑directed.
– Assessing outcome: swelling can take weeks to months to settle.
The outcomes shown are only relevant for this patient and do not necessarily reflect the results other patients may experience, as results may vary due to many factors including the individual’s genetics, diet and exercise.
