Indications for Otoplasty

Ear reshaping surgery may be recommended for both adults and children when medical or aesthetic concerns are present.

Common indications include:

• Prominent ears
• Ear asymmetry
• Excessively large or small ears
• Ear deformities following trauma
• Congenital ear abnormalities
• Unsatisfactory results of previous ear surgery
• Desire to improve the appearance of the ears

Following a thorough consultation, the surgeon determines the most appropriate surgical correction based on the patient's anatomy and expectations.

Contraindications

Although otoplasty is considered a safe and well-established procedure, surgery may be postponed or avoided under certain medical conditions.

Contraindications include:

• Acute infectious diseases
• Active inflammation involving the ears
• Blood clotting disorders
• Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus
• Severe cardiovascular disease
• Active cancer
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding

The final decision regarding surgery is made only after a comprehensive medical assessment.

Preparing for Surgery

During the initial consultation, the plastic surgeon evaluates the shape of the ears, the quality of the tissues, and the desired outcome.

Preoperative preparation generally includes:

• Consultation with a plastic surgeon
• Laboratory testing
• Medical examination
• Review of possible contraindications
• Surgical planning

Several days before surgery, patients may be advised to temporarily stop taking medications that affect blood clotting, avoid smoking, and refrain from alcohol consumption, following their surgeon's recommendations.

Who otoplasty is for

Ear surgery solves two different problems. The first is prominent ears, where the auricle stands away from the head because the antihelical fold is underdeveloped or the cartilage excessive. The second is ear reduction in macrotia, where the auricle is disproportionately large.

Surgery is possible from the age of 6–7, when growth of the auricle is essentially complete, and at any adult age. It is often done in childhood so that the child does not face teasing at school.

How the operation works

The incision is made on the back of the ear, in the natural crease behind the auricle, so it is not visible from outside. The cartilage is reshaped, the missing fold created and secured with sutures; in macrotia, surplus cartilage and skin are also excised.

Adults have local anaesthesia, children a general anaesthetic. The operation takes about an hour. The price depends on whether one or both ears are treated and whether size correction is needed — see below.