Otoplasty is a surgical procedure for correcting the shape, size or position of the ears. It is most commonly performed to correct protruding ears, bringing them closer to the head and making them appear more symmetrical. This procedure is also known as ear plastic surgery or pinnaplasty. The aim of the surgery is to change the shape, size or position of the ears. Otoplasty can be performed on both children and adults. In children, it is usually considered when the ear cartilage has developed sufficiently and is stable. The doctor assesses each patient’s individual suitability for the procedure.
How is otoplasty, or ear shape correction surgery, performed?
Otoplasty is performed under general anaesthesia. The surgical method is selected depending on the type of deformity and the patient’s complaints. In most cases, all skin incisions are made behind the ear, so the scars are virtually unnoticeable after healing.
At the end of the surgery, a tight fixing bandage is applied.
Duration: 2–3 hours, depending on the extent of the surgery.
Indications for otoplasty:
congenital ear deformity or asymmetry;
acquired ear deformity, for example as a result of trauma.
Preparation for surgery:
consultation with an otolaryngologist, or ENT specialist;
standard examinations required before any surgery under general anaesthesia, including blood tests, chest X-ray and electrocardiogram (ECG). The patient is informed in detail about the preparation process.
After surgery
After the surgery, the patient stays in hospital for one night.
The following morning, the surgical wounds are treated and the dressing is changed. The patient receives all necessary recommendations and is discharged from hospital.
During the postoperative period, it is mandatory to wear a compression bandage or headband for two weeks. After that, the bandage should be worn only at night for one month. The sutures are removed after 7–10 days. Patients should plan 3–4 postoperative visits with an ENT specialist. Detailed recommendations are provided individually to each patient.
Important: otoplasty does not improve hearing, as it changes the shape or position of the outer ear, not the function of the hearing organs.
