Prominent Ear Surgery – Otoplasty

Otoplasty, also known as prominent ear surgery, is a surgical procedure to correct the shape and position of the ears. This surgery, which is generally preferred for aesthetic reasons, aims to correct the ears that are prominently protruding or incompatible with the head structure.

The following steps are followed during otoplasty surgery:

Anaesthesia: The surgery is usually performed under local anaesthesia or sedation. In other words, it can be performed as a procedure in which the patient does not lose consciousness and only the operation area is numbed.

Making the Incisions: The incisions on the back or inner side of the ears constitute the beginning of the surgery. These incisions are usually made in the natural fold between the scalp and the ear or on the inside of the auricle, so that the suture marks are less visible.

Cartilage Shaping: The main goal of the surgery is to correct the shape and position of the auricle. Therefore, the surgeon reshapes the ear cartilage. Depending on the need, the cartilage is reduced when it is excessive or completed when it is missing. It is ensured that the auricle is placed more spike or close to the body.

Suture Removal: After the new shape of the auricle is created, this new position is fixed with sutures. Stitches are usually placed on the inside and are not visible from the outside.

Recovery: After the operation, the patient is wrapped in a bandage or wears a special ear band for a while. These bandages help the ears to maintain their new position. During the healing process, stitches are removed and swelling decreases over time.

Otoplasty surgery is usually painless, but mild pain and discomfort may be experienced in the postoperative period. The healing process can vary from person to person, but it is usually possible to return to normal activities within a few weeks.

Otoplasty surgery can usually be performed in childhood or adolescence, but it is also suitable for adults. The results of the surgery are usually permanent and can increase patients’ self-confidence. However, if you are considering this type of surgery, it is important to consult an experienced plastic surgeon. Paying attention to pre- and post-operative care instructions can also positively affect the results.

What is prominent ear?

Prominent ear is an anatomical feature in which the auricle stands out more than normal or draws attention to itself in a prominent way. Prominent ears are usually congenital and affect the appearance of a person’s ears. This condition changes the normal shape and position of the auricle, making the ears larger or more noticeable.

Prominent ears can be a concern for people for aesthetic reasons, and for this reason some people may prefer their ears to be more firmly attached to their head. A surgical procedure called otoplasty can be used to correct this type of appearance, in which the shape and position of the auricle is corrected.

Prominent ears can affect a person’s self-confidence and cause negative emotional effects, especially among children and young people. For this reason, some individuals or families may resort to otoplasty surgery to correct prominent ears.

Prominent ear surgery is performed to reshape the auricle so that it is closer or in a normal position. As a result of this surgery, the ears become less conspicuous and patients are satisfied with their appearance. However, it is important to pay proper attention to pre- and post-operative care instructions, and the results of surgery may vary from person to person.

What is Otoplasty?

Otoplasty is a surgical procedure to correct the shape and position of the ears. This surgery is usually performed to correct conditions in which the auricle protrudes more than normal or draws significant attention. Otoplasty is also referred to as “ear aesthetics” or “ear correction”.

The main goals of otoplasty surgery are as follows:

Prominent Ear Correction: The shape and position of the auricle is corrected to correct the condition known as prominent ear. This may involve moving the ears to a position closer to the spike or head.

Asymmetry Correction: In cases where the ears develop unevenly, surgery corrects this asymmetry.

Correcting Ear Cartilage Problems: Some people may have abnormal ear cartilage structures or their ears may not develop correctly. Otoplasty can be used to correct such cartilage problems.

Otoplasty surgery is usually performed under local anaesthesia or sedation, so the patient is conscious, but the surgical site is numbed. During the operation, incisions are made behind or inside the ear and the ear cartilages are reshaped. Stitches are usually placed on the inside so that they are not visible from the outside.

In the postoperative period, the patient’s ears are wrapped with bandages or a special ear band is worn. This helps to maintain the new position of the ears. The healing process can vary from person to person, but it is usually possible to return to normal activities within a few weeks.

As a result of otoplasty surgery, the ears become less conspicuous and patients’ self-confidence can increase. However, it requires careful care before and after surgery and the results of surgery may vary from person to person. Therefore, it is important to consult with an experienced plastic surgeon if you are considering surgery.

What is a Normal Ear Structure?

A normal ear structure usually has the following characteristics:

No Scoop Ear: A normal ear is not in the shape of a scoop and is located close to the head. In the case known as prominent ears, the ears stand out more than normal or stand out prominently.

Symmetry: Both ears should be similar in shape and there should be no asymmetry or disparity. The size and shape of the ears should be similar.

Ear Cartilage: The ears, especially the upper and lower auricles, should have a normal cartilage structure. The cartilages should develop properly and maintain their shape.

Ear Canal: The ear canal inside the auricle is important for normal hearing. The ear canal should not be blocked or abnormally developed.

Colour and Skin: The skin of the ear should be consistent with other parts of the body in terms of skin tone and texture. There should be no abnormal colour changes or skin problems.

Aesthetic Harmony: Ears should be placed in harmony with the face and should not draw attention to facial features. It should provide an aesthetically pleasing appearance.

Normal ear structure may vary from person to person, but in general, the ears are located close to the head and in harmony with the face. Prominent ears or other ear anomalies are considered deviations from the normal structure of the ears, and these conditions can lead to aesthetic or auditory problems. Surgical procedures such as otoplasty can be used to correct such conditions.

Who Can Have Scoop Ear Surgery (Otoplasty)?

Scoop ear surgery or otoplasty is performed to correct the shape and position of the ears and is usually considered in the following cases:

Scoop Ear (Auricle Deformity): The condition known as scooped ears is a condition in which the ears stick out more than normal or are noticeably prominent. Scoop ear surgery is performed to correct this aesthetic problem.

Request for Scoop Ear: Usually during childhood or adolescence, people with prominent ears may feel uncomfortable and therefore may want surgery. Otoplasty can help people increase their self-confidence.

Asymmetry Correction: Otoplasty may be considered for cases where the ears develop unevenly. This can be done if one ear is more protruding than the other or if the ears are of different sizes.

Ear Cartilage Anomalies: Some people may have conditions where the ear cartilage does not develop correctly or is abnormal. Otoplasty can be used to correct such cartilage problems.

Congenital Anomalies: Congenital ear anomalies can occur due to genetic factors that prevent the normal development of the ears or cause changes. Otoplasty may be an option to correct congenital ear problems.

Scoop ear surgery can usually be performed in childhood or adolescence, but it is also suitable for adults. Prior to surgery, a plastic surgeon assesses the patient’s specific condition and determines whether surgery is a viable option. It is also important to pay proper attention to the instructions for postoperative care, as this can positively affect the results of surgery. As with any medical procedure, it is important to consult a doctor and seek expert advice for otoplasty.

Why Does Prominent Ear Appearance Occur?

Prominent ear appearance is usually caused by the ear cartilage developing or positioning differently than normal. The causes of this condition, known as prominent ear, can be the following:

Genetic Factors: Prominent ears are often passed down in families as a genetic trait. If one or both parents have prominent ears, their children may also have this condition.

Cartilage Development: The auricle has a complex cartilage structure and the normal development of this structure can be affected by a number of factors. If the cartilage tissue develops with more folds or in a conical shape than normal, a prominent ear may occur.

Prematurity Prematurity (premature birth) can affect the normal development of the ears. The auricles of babies born prematurely are softer and can change shape, which can lead to the appearance of prominent ears.

Drug or Radiation Exposure: The ear development of babies in the womb can be affected by external factors such as medications taken by the mother or radiation exposure. Such factors can cause abnormal development of the ear structure.

Since prominent ear is a congenital condition, it is usually recognised during infancy or childhood. This condition may affect the child’s self-confidence and may cause social discomfort. For this reason, prominent ears may be a concern for some people who prefer to be corrected with otoplasty surgery for aesthetic or psychosocial reasons.

Otoplasty surgery is used to correct the pinna and restore it to a normal position. This surgery usually provides permanent results that correct the appearance of prominent ears. However, it is important to pay attention to pre- and post-operative care instructions, and the results of surgery may vary from person to person. If surgery is being considered, it is best to consult with a plastic surgeon.

When Is Prominent Ear Surgery Performed?

Prominent ear surgery or otoplasty is usually considered and performed in the following cases:

Childhood: Prominent ear surgery is usually performed during childhood (usually from 5-6 years of age) or adolescence. At this age, children may experience possible bullying or self-confidence problems due to prominent ears at school or in social interactions. Surgery may be preferred to minimise these negative effects.

Family History: Prominent ears may be a genetic trait and family history may influence this condition. If one or both parents have prominent ears, their children may also have this condition.

Patient’s Wishes: If the child or adolescent is uncomfortable with the appearance of prominent ears and wants surgery, families can support this request. However, before the child or adolescent is allowed to make this decision, it is important that they are properly informed about the consequences of the surgery and what the procedure entails.

Asymmetry or Other Ear Problems: Otoplasty may be considered if there is a marked asymmetry between the ears or other ear problems. Such conditions can be caused by anatomical causes that prevent or alter the normal development of the ears.

Otoplasty surgery is usually performed to correct the appearance of prominent ears and restore the ears to a more normal position. The ideal time of surgery may vary depending on the individual’s age, idiosyncrasies and personal preferences. However, usually children can begin to consider surgery before they start school or when social interactions become more pronounced.

The results of otoplasty surgery are usually permanent and can increase a person’s self-confidence. However, it is important to pay attention to pre- and post-operative care instructions and the results of surgery may vary from person to person. Therefore, if you are considering otoplasty surgery, it is important to consult with a plastic surgeon to determine the best time and procedure.

Prominent Ear Causes

Prominent ears are an anatomical feature caused by the ears developing or positioning differently from normal. The causes of prominent ear formation can be the following:

Genetic Factors: Prominent ears may be associated with genetic predisposition. If there are individuals with prominent ears in the family history, the likelihood of this condition in their children or grandchildren may increase.

Ear Cartilage Structure: Ears have a complex cartilage structure. If the ear cartilage develops differently from normal or is formed with excessive folds, it may cause prominent ear formation.

Prematurity: The ears of babies born prematurely may not have completed their normal development. This may cause the ears to have a softer or shape-variable structure.

Exposures in the womb: Babies in the womb are susceptible to external factors such as medications taken by the mother or radiation exposure. Such factors can affect the normal development of the ears and lead to the formation of prominent ears.

Prominent ears are a congenital condition and are usually recognised in infancy or childhood. Prominent ears can affect a person’s self-confidence and can be socially uncomfortable, so some individuals or families may choose to correct this condition with otoplasty surgery.

Otoplasty surgery is performed to correct the auricle and restore it to a normal position. This surgery usually provides permanent results that correct the appearance of prominent ears. However, it is important to pay attention to pre- and post-operative care instructions, and the results of surgery may vary from person to person. Therefore, if you are considering otoplasty surgery, it would be best to consult with a plastic surgeon.

What problems does prominent ear cause?

Prominent ears often indicate an aesthetic problem and can cause dissatisfaction with one’s appearance. However, prominent ears can also lead to psychosocial and emotional problems. Here are some of the problems that prominent ears can cause:

Low Self-Esteem and Self-Confidence Problems: Prominent ears, especially in children and teenagers, can cause others to mock or make fun of them. This can reduce self-confidence and lead to low self-esteem.

Social Isolation: Prominent ears can limit individuals’ social interactions. The person may avoid social environments or isolate himself/herself by thinking that his/her ears are conspicuous.

Bullying and Harassment: Prominent ears can cause bullying or harassment among children. Other children may make fun of a friend with a different appearance.

Embarrassment and Stress: Prominent ears can cause embarrassment and stress. This can be emotionally challenging, especially for young people.

Psychological Effects: Prominent ears may increase the risk of psychological disorders in some people. This can increase the likelihood of conditions such as depression or anxiety.

Otoplasty surgery is an effective treatment method used to correct prominent ear problems and to alleviate or eliminate such psychosocial effects. As a result of the surgery, the ears are returned to a normal position and become less conspicuous. This can improve self-confidence and reduce aesthetic concerns.

People or their parents who are experiencing emotional or psychosocial problems due to prominent ears should contact a plastic surgeon and consider appropriate options such as otoplasty surgery. Pre- and postoperative care instructions should be followed and postoperative counselling and support should be sought.

Recovery Time After Prominent Ear Surgery

The recovery period after prominent ear surgery may vary from person to person, but usually consists of the following stages:

First Postoperative Days: In the first days after surgery, the ears are wrapped in bandages or a special ear band is worn. These bandages help to maintain the new position of the ears. The bandages are usually kept on for a few days or a week.

First Week: There may be swelling and bruising during the first week. The pain is usually mild to moderate and can be controlled with painkillers. During this period, the operation area and bandages should be kept dry and clean.

Removing the Bandages: The bandages are usually removed after a few days or a week. When the bandages are removed, the new shape of the ears becomes more apparent.

Removal of Stitches: The stitches used during surgery can be removed after one or two weeks. This allows the stitches to heal.

Healing Process: The healing process may take several weeks or several months. The ears may be tender for a while after surgery and the swelling decreases over time. During the healing process, it may be advisable to avoid heavy sports or activities.

Long Term Results: The results of otoplasty surgery are usually permanent and the ears become less noticeable. However, the results may vary from person to person.

The recovery process after prominent ear surgery may vary depending on the patient’s age, general health, the complexity of the surgery and the techniques applied by the surgeon. Following the postoperative care in accordance with the doctor’s recommendations and attending follow-up appointments are important for a successful recovery.

In case of any postoperative complications or problems, a health professional should be contacted immediately. Being careful in the postoperative period and following the surgeon’s recommendations will ensure your successful recovery.

When should a child undergo a clamshell ear surgery?

Diplopia surgery in children should usually be performed at a specific time, taking into account the child’s physical and emotional development. It is important to consider the following factors in order to determine the appropriate time for diplopia surgery:

Age of the Child: Scapular surgery can be performed from the pre-school or pre-school period of children. Generally, children from the age of 5-6 years may be suitable candidates for this type of surgery. The age of the child is important in terms of understanding the physical and psychosocial effects of the surgery.

Pre-School or Holiday Period: The healing process after scapular ear surgery may make it difficult for the child to attend school or return to daily activities. For this reason, the surgery can be performed during the child’s pre-school period or school holidays. This helps the child to spend more time resting and recovering after surgery.

Child’s Willingness and Preparation: The child’s willingness to undergo capillary ear surgery is important. The child should understand the results of the surgery and the procedure and be willing. If the child does not want the surgery or does not feel ready, the surgery should not be performed.

Emotional Preparation: It is important to prepare the child emotionally prior to the operation. They should be helped to understand the consequences of the surgery, the healing process and why the surgery is needed.

Surgeon’s Advice: The advice of a plastic surgeon is important to determine the best time to have the surgery. The surgeon can determine the most appropriate time depending on the age of the child, the condition of the ears and the complexity of the surgery.

Scoop ear surgery can be a procedure that can improve the child’s physical and psychosocial well-being. However, it is important that the surgery is performed in a way that is appropriate for the child’s age, wishes and preparation. Parents should consult the advice of a plastic surgeon to prepare and support their child for the surgical process.

Prominent Ear Surgery Prices 2023

Prominent ear surgery (otoplasty) prices can vary depending on many factors. Some of the factors that affect the cost of the surgery may be as follows:

Surgeon’s Experience: The experience and expertise of the plastic surgeon who will perform the surgery can affect the cost. Experienced and well-known surgeons can usually charge higher fees.

Complexity of the Surgery: The complexity of prominent ear surgery is another important factor affecting the price. Factors such as how much the ears need to be corrected, how the cartilage structure is and how long the surgery will take determine the cost.

Location of the Surgery: The location and level of the hospital or surgical centre where the surgery will be performed can also affect the price. Surgeries in big cities or luxury healthcare facilities can often be more costly.

Type of Anaesthesia: The type of anaesthesia to be used for prominent ear surgery also affects the cost. Different anaesthesia methods such as general anaesthesia, sedation or local anaesthesia can be used.

Need for Second Surgery: In rare cases, the results of prominent ear surgery may not be as desired and a second surgery may be required. In this case, there may be additional costs.

Insurance Coverage: Prominent ear surgery can be considered not only as an aesthetic problem, but also as a medical procedure that corrects auditory problems. Therefore, insurance companies may cover some or all of the cost of the surgery in some cases. It is important to check your insurance coverage.

Prominent ear surgery prices can vary greatly depending on geography, the reputation of the surgeon and the level of the hospital. In general, it would be best to contact local plastic surgeons and get price quotes to determine the 2023 prices of prominent ear surgery. After receiving price quotes, it is important to carefully consider the cost of the surgery and payment options. You should also consider the cost of pre- and post-operative care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Non-Surgical Treatment Option for Prominent Ear?

Prominent ear is a condition medically termed “prominent auricles” or “bat ear” and is characterised by the ears appearing more protruding than normal. Prominent ears are generally considered an aesthetic problem and do not usually pose a medical hazard. If prominent ear treatment is preferred, different options are available, such as surgery or non-surgical methods.

Non-surgical treatment options may include:

Masking the auricle: Hair stylists or make-up artists can sometimes use haircuts or make-up techniques to make prominent ears less prominent. This can be a temporary solution and is for aesthetic purposes.

Ear protection devices: Some people may choose to use ear protection devices that are specially designed to correct or hide prominent ears. These devices can help to hold the ears more neatly, but this can also be a temporary solution.

Non-invasive temporary correction methods: Some devices and adhesives are commercially available to temporarily correct prominent ears. These can make the ears less prominent for a period of time.

However, if a permanent solution is desired and prominent ears are perceived as an aesthetic problem, otoplasty, a surgical intervention, is usually preferred. Otoplasty is performed to correct the auricle in the desired shape and usually gives successful results. The postoperative recovery process may take several weeks and a surgical function is needed. Therefore, the surgery option for prominent ear treatment may be a more permanent and effective solution.

It is important to consult with a plastic surgeon or otolaryngologist to determine which method is most suitable for prominent ear treatment. The most suitable treatment option can be determined according to your needs and preferences.

How is Prominent Ear Surgery Performed?

Prominent ear surgery is known as “otoplasty” as a medical term and is a surgical procedure performed to correct or reshape the auricle in the desired way. Here is an overview of how prominent ear surgery is generally performed:

Anaesthesia: The surgery is usually performed under local anaesthesia (only the ear area is numbed) or general anaesthesia (the patient is put to sleep). The type of anaesthesia is determined by your doctor and your preference.

Incision The surgeon makes a series of specially designed incisions to correct the auricle. These incisions are usually made in the natural folds behind the ear or in areas above the cartilage of the inner ear, so that postoperative suture scars are less visible.

Cartilage contouring: The surgeon cuts and shapes the ear cartilage with special methods to reshape the overdistended area of the auricle and bring it closer to the head and scalp. This gives the ears a more uniform appearance.

Stitches: Once the cartilage has been reshaped, the surgeon can secure the ear cartilage with internal sutures, and the sutures remain under the skin. The sutures are then used to close the upper part of the skin.

Healing and bandaging: When the procedure is complete, the ears are usually wrapped with a bandage. This bandage helps to reduce post-operative swelling and promote healing of the ears.

Recovery: During the postoperative period, the patient may need to protect their ears and avoid certain activities. There may be bruising and swelling after surgery, but these decrease over time. The full recovery process may take several weeks and it is important to follow your doctor’s recommendations.

Prominent ear surgery is a procedure that usually gives successful results and allows the ears to gain a more uniform appearance. However, like any surgical intervention, it may have some risks and complications. Therefore, it is important to have a detailed discussion with your doctor about the risks and expectations before surgery.

What is it like after prominent ear surgery?

The period after prominent ear surgery (otoplasty) is an important time when the patient experiences the results of the surgery and the healing process. Here are some common conditions and precautions that can be expected after prominent ear surgery:

Bruises and Swelling: Bruises and swelling may be seen in the ears in the postoperative period. This usually subsides within the first few weeks. Cold compresses and medications recommended by the doctor can relieve swelling.

Bandage and Stitches: In the postoperative period, the ears are usually wrapped with a bandage and stitches are used. How long the bandage should stay on and when to remove the stitches depends on your doctor’s recommendations.

Pain and Discomfort: Postoperative pain may be mild to moderate and can usually be controlled with painkillers. Discomfort usually subsides within a few days.

Avoiding Head and Ear Contact: It is important to avoid trauma to the head and ear area in the postoperative period. This means that blows or pressure on the ears should be avoided.

Lying Position: Some doctors may recommend that the patient follow a certain lying position in the postoperative period. This can help support the healing process of the ears.

Sports and Physical Activities: It is important to avoid heavy physical activities in the postoperative period. Your doctor should determine when you can return to normal activities.

Follow-up Visits: You may need to have regular follow-up visits with your doctor in the postoperative period. During these visits, your healing process is evaluated and appropriate treatment adjustments are made if necessary.

Results: The results of prominent ear surgery are usually permanent and the ears gain a smoother appearance. However, the results may vary from person to person.

If you have any complications or concerns in the postoperative period, you should contact your doctor immediately. The healing process can vary from person to person, so it is important to follow your doctor’s recommendations and instructions exactly.

Is Prominent Ear Surgery a painful operation?

Prominent ear surgery (otoplasty) is a surgical operation that usually has a mild to moderate pain level. The painfulness of the surgery may vary depending on the person’s pain threshold, the complexity of the surgery and the surgeon’s techniques. Pain may be more intense in the first few days of the postoperative period and then decreases over time.

Postoperative pain and discomfort can be affected by the following factors:

Pain Medication: The surgical team will provide pain medications that will be prescribed to control pain after surgery. Using these medications regularly can relieve pain.

Individual Pain Threshold: Each individual’s pain threshold is different, so two people undergoing the same surgery may experience different levels of pain.

Surgical Technique: How the prominent ear surgery is performed can also affect the level of pain. A more invasive or complex operation may cause more discomfort.

Personal Experience: Some patients may experience a more comfortable postoperative period, while others may experience more discomfort.

Pain in the postoperative period usually subsides within a few days and most patients can easily overcome this process. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions for the management of postoperative pain and you should take the prescribed pain medication regularly.

Your doctor will give you recommendations to minimise postoperative pain and promote healing. It is important to follow your doctor’s recommendations exactly to make the postoperative period comfortable.

Can otoplasty cause hearing problems?

Otoplasty is a surgical procedure that aims to correct the shape or position of the auricle. The main purpose of this surgery is to give the ears a more uniform appearance and has no direct effect on the hearing function of the ears. Therefore, otoplasty does not directly cause hearing problems.

However, it is important to remember that otoplasty surgery can cause some side effects that can temporarily affect the perception of hearing. Since there is swelling and bandages in the ears during the postoperative period, it may be possible to perceive ear sounds differently or to experience a feeling of blocked ears for a while. However, these effects are temporary and hearing function usually normalises.

Taking proper care of your ears after otoplasty surgery and following the instructions recommended by your doctor can help prevent any problems with hearing from occurring. After a healthy post-operative recovery, your hearing function should return to normal.

However, if you have hearing problems or any concerns about hearing, you should discuss this openly with your doctor before and after surgery. Your doctor can perform hearing tests and refer you to another specialist if necessary.