Facial surgery · Patient information
Content owner: Dr. Zafer Atakan Practice · Nişantaşı, Istanbul · Updated: July 11, 2026
Otoplasty is surgery that aims to achieve a more balanced appearance by reshaping the angle of the ear to the head and the cartilage folds. The procedure targets the shape and position of the outer ear, not hearing function.
What Is Ear Aesthetics (Otoplasty)?
Prominent ears can result from an underdeveloped ear fold, a prominent part of the ear called the concha, or a combination of both. Since there are natural differences between the right and left ears, a separate plan is made for each ear.
In children, timing is evaluated together with ear development, whether the wish comes from the child, and psychosocial circumstances. In adults, the choice of local or general anesthesia may also vary depending on the scope of the procedure.
Who May Be a Candidate?
- People who are bothered by the prominence, angle, folds or asymmetry of their ears
- People whose ear cartilage development and general health are suitable for surgical planning
- People who know that hearing problems will not be corrected by otoplasty and that perfect symmetry cannot be guaranteed
- People who can follow the post-operative bandage and injury prevention instructions
What is assessed during the examination?
- Assessment 1
- Ear height, the angle to the head, the antihelical fold, concha depth and the difference between the two sides are measured.
- Assessment 2
- Previous trauma, surgery, a tendency to form keloids and skin problems are reviewed.
- Assessment 3
- Options for shaping the cartilage, repositioning it with sutures or limited cartilage correction are explained.
- Assessment 4
- The incision site, dressings, use of a protective headband and sleeping position are planned.
How Does the Process Work?
- The incision is usually placed in the fold behind the ear; the necessary cartilage correction is performed through this area.
- The cartilage can be shaped with sutures, thinned in a controlled manner, or the prominence of the concha can be reduced.
- Even if both ears are treated in the same session, each side is adjusted independently.
Recovery and follow-up
In the first days, swelling, bruising, tenderness and temporary numbness may occur. It is important not to lie on the ears and to protect them from impact and pulling. The duration of bandage or night headband use is based on the technique applied.
Expected results and limitations
The goal is not to pin the ear completely against the head, but to preserve its natural folds and an angle that is balanced with the face. Minor differences may remain due to cartilage memory and healing behavior.
Alternatives and complementary options
In suitable cases during the newborn period, non-surgical ear molding options may be available; at older ages, permanent cartilage shape differences usually require surgical assessment.
Possible risks and complications
- Bleeding, hematoma, infection and wound healing problems
- Impaired cartilage circulation, contour irregularity or suture reaction
- Visible scarring or keloid formation
- Persistent asymmetry, the ear protruding again or being pulled back too far
Frequently asked questions
Does ear surgery affect hearing?
Otoplasty reshapes the outer ear and does not target the hearing mechanism. If there is a hearing problem, an ENT assessment is required.
At what age can prominent ear surgery be performed?
Timing is determined according to ear development, the child's wishes and medical assessment; there is no single age rule.
Can the ears stick out again after otoplasty?
Partial relapse may occur due to cartilage memory or suture problems; rarely, an additional correction may be needed.
Where is the otoplasty scar?
It is usually planned in the natural fold behind the ear; the appearance of the scar depends on individual wound healing.
This content is for general information. The surgical decision is made after an in-person examination, medical history and the necessary tests.