Prominent ears, whether you are a child, a teenager or an adult, can be a real source of mocking,
complexes and/or discontent. To rectify, the otoplasty, the surgery of prominent ears, allows us to
reposition and remodel the ears in complete harmony with the face. This kind of simple intervention
is accomplished by an aesthetic surgeon under local anesthesia. Within a few weeks, the patient
values and loves the visual rendering of the result.
The otoplasty surgery process, cartilaginous anomalies, cost, after the surgery… Here is all the
information needed.
Otoplasty refers to the surgery of prominent or hypertrophied ears. In most cases, both ears are
remodeled, but sometimes, only one ear requires an intervention. It is important to mention that this
otoplasty is only aesthetic, it does not involve hearing.
During the otoplasty, the surgeon is going to correct the anomalies of the cartilage of the auricular
pavilion to reposition and remodel the ears to improve the physical aspect.
In general, we distinguish three anomalies
– The burying of the conch (main cartilage); when the entire pavilion of the ear sticks out of
the cranium
– The hypertrophy of the conch; when the ears appear to be facing forward– The default of the crease of the anthelix (crease of the cartilage): when the ear seems
smooth and lacks relief/depth
All adult can undergo a surgical procedure for these kinds of anomalies telling their practitioner what
they wish to correct.
The otoplasty is considered for kids starting at age 7. Indeed, when a kid is 7 years old, the growth of
the ears is almost over (80% of its adult size). Even underage, the child must volunteer to do the
intervention. A parental authorization is required.
Prominent ears, too big, asymmetrical… the primary consultation is the occasion for the patient to
tell the practitioner in details what is bothering them and why they want to get the surgery.
These first encounters will allow the practitioner to better define the objectives of the otoplasty.
He/she can, after a rigorous exam of the face and ears, establish a diagnosis and a preoperative
exam. This meeting is also the occasion for the patient to understand in details the principles of the
intervention and the precautions to take. The surgeon gives a quote of cost and techniques used and
remains available to the patient for further questions.
To facilitate the work of the practitioner during the intervention, it is recommended to wear your
hair short or tie all your hair back. The day before the surgery, it is important to wash the hair and
face thoroughly.
Surgery of prominent ears : type of anesthesia and rules
The surgery of prominent ears is ambulatory, under local anesthesia with sedation. The patient goes
back home the same day.
In most cases, the incision is behind the ear, in the crease of the retro-auricular. The surgeon
removes a part of the skin in the shape of an hourglass. If necessary, other small incisions are done
on the anterior pavilion part, but they are invisible after the ear heals.
To detach the skin, the surgeon does a dissection to attain the cartilage, to remodel it. This is when
the surgeon recreates or improves the natural reliefs of the ear. With deep stiches, the surgeon will
fix the modifications of the cartilage. The stiches of the cartilage maintain the good position of the
threads. The deep sutures allow the ears to be stuck back to the head, by adjusting the retro-
auricular angle. The corrections done during the otoplasty intervention are designed to create a
natural result.
After the intervention, the patient must keep a plaster for 3-4 days then a headband for three weeks.
During this time, the ears can still be swolen or sensitive. Painkillers can relieve the pain (the pain
with these kinds of intervention is usually moderate).
