Otoplasty is a surgical procedure performed to improve the appearance of the external ear and create a more balanced ear shape.

Commonly known as prominent ear surgery or ear pinning surgery, otoplasty can correct ears that protrude excessively from the head. It can also reshape the external ear and earlobe in cases involving congenital structural differences or deformities caused by trauma.

What Is Otoplasty?

Otoplasty is an aesthetic surgical procedure designed to reshape the angle, folds and overall appearance of the external ear. The goal is to create an ear appearance that is more harmonious with the face and head.

What Are Prominent Ears?

When the external ear projects noticeably away from the head and appears more prominent than usual, it is commonly referred to as a prominent ear. This appearance may affect one or both ears.

When Can Otoplasty Be Performed?

Otoplasty may be planned not only to correct prominent ears but also to reshape different structural irregularities affecting the external ear or earlobe.

Prominent Ears

Ears that project excessively from the head or appear noticeably prominent.

Ear Asymmetry

Noticeable differences in shape, position or size between the two ears.

Congenital Ear Deformities

Cases in which the external ear has not fully developed or has a different anatomical shape from birth.

Trauma-Related Deformities

Changes in the shape or appearance of the external ear or earlobe following an accident or trauma.

Otoplasty in Childhood

The Impact of Prominent Ears in Children

Prominent ears can have social and psychological effects, particularly during childhood. In social environments such as preschool, kindergarten or school, children may experience teasing, criticism or exclusion because of the appearance of their ears.

Such experiences may negatively affect self-confidence, communication and social adjustment in some children. For this reason, in suitable patients, the timing of otoplasty may be evaluated before the child begins school.

Appropriate Timing for Otoplasty

01

Reducing Social Impact

When appropriately timed, surgery before the school years may help reduce negative social experiences related to the appearance of the ears.

02

Supporting Self-Confidence

Addressing concerns related to ear appearance may contribute to supporting self-confidence and social interaction in some children.

03

Individual Evaluation

The timing of surgery is planned individually according to the child's ear development, general health and the surgeon's clinical evaluation.

Otoplasty in Adults

Otoplasty is not limited to childhood. Adults who feel uncomfortable with the appearance of their ears may also choose to undergo this procedure.

Concerns About Ear Appearance

Prominent ears may cause aesthetic concerns or discomfort in social situations.

Greater Freedom in Hairstyle Choices

The ability to wear shorter hairstyles or styles that leave the ears exposed more comfortably.

Personal Comfort

The procedure may help address long-standing aesthetic concerns related to the appearance of the ears.

How Is Otoplasty Surgery Planned?

The extent of otoplasty may vary depending on the patient's age, ear anatomy and the type of correction required. The procedure may be performed as day surgery or with a short hospital stay, depending on the individual case.

Choice of Anesthesia

Depending on the patient's age and the extent of the procedure, local or general anesthesia may be selected following the surgeon's evaluation.

Hospital Stay

Depending on the extent of surgery and the patient's condition, otoplasty may be planned as a day procedure or with a short period of hospital observation.

The Main Goal of Otoplasty

The primary goal of otoplasty is to reshape the external ear to create a more balanced, natural-looking appearance that is harmonious with the face and head.

The existing ear anatomy, degree of asymmetry, patient's age and individual expectations are evaluated together to create a personalized surgical plan.