What Is Prominent Ear (Otoplasty)?

Prominent ears (protruding ears) refer to a condition in which the ears appear more noticeably turned outward or positioned farther away from the head than normal. Although it does not pose a direct health risk, it can lead to aesthetic concerns and self-confidence issues, especially beginning in childhood. For this reason, otoplasty—also known as prominent ear surgery—is a surgical method performed by ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat) specialists to correct this condition.

What Causes Prominent Ears?

Prominent ear deformity is usually congenital and may be due to the following reasons:

• Weak or poorly shaped ear cartilage
• Underdevelopment of the normal ear folds
• An increased angle between the ear and the head
• Genetic predisposition

These factors can cause the ears to appear more protruded and create an aesthetically disturbing appearance. Particularly in school-age children, social effects such as teasing may lead to psychological problems.

What Is Otoplasty (Prominent Ear Surgery) and How Is It Performed?

Otoplasty is a surgical procedure performed to correct the shape of the ears. The ear folds are reshaped, excess cartilage may be removed if necessary, and the ear is positioned closer to the head.

The main steps of the surgery are as follows:

• It is usually performed under local anesthesia (sometimes general anesthesia in children).
• The cartilage structure is reached through an incision made behind the ear.
• The cartilage is reshaped and excess tissue is removed if needed.
• The ear is brought closer to the head and fixed with aesthetic sutures.
• Because the incision scars remain behind the ear, they are not visible from the outside.
• Otoplasty can be performed on one ear or both ears. The average surgery time is about 1–1.5 hours.

At What Age Can Otoplasty Be Performed?

Prominent ear surgery can generally be performed starting from the age of 5–6, because ear development is largely completed by this time. However, it may also be performed in adulthood for aesthetic or psychological reasons.

Early intervention is reported to have positive effects on a child’s self-confidence development.

Recovery Process After Prominent Ear Surgery

• A bandage is applied to the ear for the first few days after surgery.
• Afterwards, a special headband is used (especially at night).
• Mild pain, swelling, and bruising may occur and usually decrease within 1 week.
• Return to normal daily life is typically possible within 7–10 days.
• Sutures usually dissolve on their own or are removed after about 1 week.
• The results are expected to be long-lasting.

Otoplasty Is More Than Aesthetic

Prominent ears are not only an aesthetic issue; they are also important in terms of self-confidence, social adaptation, and psychological well-being. Especially in children, effects such as being teased at school and social withdrawal may be observed. For this reason, ENT specialists perform individualized assessments from both aesthetic and functional perspectives.