Protruding ears are a feature that some people are born with, often causing embarrassment and efforts to conceal them. Restoring an age-appropriate appearance can give these patients more confidence in their appearance.

What causes protruding ears?

Ear protrusion is usually something a person is born with. It is either caused by excessive cartilage in the concha part of the ear or an underdeveloped antihelix fold.

What can be done to correct protruding ears?

We can make the ears less prominent with a procedure called otoplasty. The otoplasty procedure “pins back” the ears, making them less visible from the front. The goal of otoplasty is to produce an adult appearance for those with underdeveloped ears.

How is the surgery performed?

With older children and adults, this procedure may be performed in the office under local anesthesia. The procedure starts with an incision made in a well-concealed area along the backside of the ear. The surgeon then removes the soft tissue from behind the ear and thins the cartilage if necessary. The incision is stitched with strong sutures that permanently pin the ear back.

How long does an otoplasty procedure take?

Otoplasty surgery may take up to 3 hours.

How long does recovery take after otoplasty?

The average at-home recovery time for otoplasty is 5-7 days. Immediately after surgery, a light compression dressing is kept in place for a few days followed by a swim band to support the ears against the head for one to two weeks. Stitches behind the ear are removed between the first and second weeks. At this point, most patients feel comfortable being in public. It is normal for ears to be a bit more sensitive for a few weeks.

What is the best age for otoplasty?

Otoplasty is most successful earlier in life when the ear cartilage is less resistant to change.