EAR SURGERY
Otoplasty
Ear surgery (otoplasty) is an aesthetic surgical procedure performed to correct prominent ears, a condition in which the ears stand out from the head at too wide an angle. Prominent ears are usually genetic; hearing is normal, but the appearance causes aesthetic concern.
Prominent ears can make a person feel self-conscious, especially during childhood and adolescence. At Op. Dr. Mert Seçer’s clinic, the aim is to bring the ears into a natural, symmetrical position in harmony with the face.
WHO IS IT SUITABLE FOR?
Children and Adults
Ear surgery can be performed on children and adults who are bothered by the appearance of their ears.
- People whose ears stand out from the head at too wide an angle (prominent ears)
- People whose ear folds are underdeveloped or indistinct
- People with noticeable asymmetry between their ears
- People with large, sagging or torn earlobes
From what age ear surgery can be performed is evaluated during the examination according to the development of the ear.
HOW IS IT PERFORMED?
A Small Incision Behind the Ear
Prominent ear correction is usually performed through a small incision behind the ear. The ear cartilage is reshaped using special techniques; the missing ear fold is created and the angle between the ear and the head is reduced.
Because the incision lies on the back of the ear, in the natural crease where it meets the head, it is not visible from the front. The aim is for the ear to sit at a natural angle, not pinned flat against the head.
EAR SURGERY FOR ADULTS
Possible at Any Age
Ear surgery is not only for children. Prominent ears that were not corrected in childhood can also be corrected successfully in adulthood.
In adults, the ear cartilage may be stiffer than in children; therefore the shaping technique is planned according to the patient’s cartilage structure. Adult patients can also return to daily life shortly after surgery.
EARLOBE CORRECTION
Torn and Large Earlobes
Heavy earrings, accidents or ageing can cause tearing, stretched piercing holes or sagging of the earlobe. Earlobes that are naturally large or misshapen can also cause aesthetic concern.
In these cases, the earlobe is repaired, reduced or reshaped with a minor surgical procedure. The procedure can be performed on its own or together with prominent ear surgery.
AFTER SURGERY
Recovery Process
The anaesthesia method and duration of the procedure are planned individually during the examination.
- After surgery, a headband is worn for a while so that the ears keep their new shape; how long it should be worn is determined during the examination and follow-up visits.
- Swelling, tenderness and mild pain in the ears during the first days are expected.
- During this period, care should be taken to avoid knocks to the ears and the care instructions provided should be followed.
RISKS
What You Should Know
As with any surgical procedure, ear surgery carries certain risks. Swelling and tenderness are expected. Other possible risks include bleeding, infection, asymmetry between the ears, visible scarring, the ear partially returning to its former position over time and a result that does not meet expectations. Risks are discussed in detail during the examination.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
At what age can ear surgery be performed?
For children, the age from which surgery can be performed is evaluated during the examination according to the development of the ear. In adults, ear surgery can be performed at any age.
Does ear surgery leave a scar?
Because the incision lies on the back of the ear, in the natural crease where it meets the head, it is not visible from the front.
Is ear surgery performed on adults?
Yes. Prominent ears not corrected in childhood can also be corrected successfully in adulthood.
How long is the headband worn after ear surgery?
A headband is worn for a while after surgery so that the ears keep their new shape. How long it should be worn is determined at the examination and follow-up visits.
Can a torn earlobe be repaired?
Yes. Torn, stretched or large earlobes can be repaired or reshaped with a minor surgical procedure.
Does ear surgery affect hearing?
No. The procedure is performed only on the outer ear; the structures related to hearing are not touched.
How long does ear surgery take?
The duration and anaesthesia method vary depending on whether one or both ears are treated and on additional procedures such as earlobe correction; they are planned during the examination.
This content was prepared by Op. Dr. Mert Seçer.
Last updated: 22 October 2026
