Otoplasty (Ear Surgery): Aesthetic Balance & Confidence

Close-up of an aesthetically pleasing ear shape, the desired result of otoplasty (prominent ear surgery).

Our ears are crucial elements that complete the aesthetic balance and symmetry of our face. However, when ears are more prominent than usual or have a structure commonly referred to as "bat ears," it can deeply affect a person's social life and self-esteem. This condition, often starting in childhood, can lead to ongoing self-confidence issues into adulthood. Fortunately, modern aesthetic surgery offers a permanent and highly satisfying solution: Otoplasty, also known as ear surgery for prominent ears.

Serving patients at his clinic in Istanbul, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yalçın Bayram combines the most current surgical techniques with an artistic perspective to correct prominent ear appearance and provide patients with natural, aesthetic ears that are in perfect harmony with their face. In this detailed guide, you will find answers to all your questions about the otoplasty journey and gain comprehensive information about the process.

What is Otoplasty (Prominent Ear Surgery)?

Otoplasty is an aesthetic operation performed to correct the appearance of prominent ears, which may result from the ear cartilage protruding at a wider angle from the skull than usual or from the underdevelopment of the ear cartilage folds (antihelical fold). The primary goal of this surgery is to bring the ears closer to the head (ear pinning), recreate their natural folds, and achieve a symmetrical, aesthetic balance with the overall facial features.

Otoplasty not only addresses an aesthetic concern but also serves as a functional improvement process that renews a person's self-confidence, helps them feel more comfortable in social settings, and thus enhances their quality of life. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yalçın Bayram meticulously analyzes each patient's facial anatomy and personal expectations, aiming to achieve results that look entirely natural, as if they were born that way, rather than appearing "operated on."

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What is the Best Age for Otoplasty?

One of the most frequently asked questions about otoplasty concerns the ideal timing for the operation. This surgery can be safely performed on both children and adults.

Childhood: The most ideal period for otoplasty is often the preschool years. The operation can be comfortably performed from the age of 5-6 onwards, by which time the ear has completed about 90% of its growth. The major advantage of surgery at this age is preventing potential psychological trauma the child might face during school years due to negative comments or teasing. Children's cartilage is also more pliable, making it easier to shape and potentially speeding up the healing process.
Adulthood: There is no upper age limit for adults who did not undergo or postponed the operation during childhood. Any adult bothered by the appearance of prominent ears can have this surgery, provided their general health condition permits. Otoplasty performed in adulthood also yields highly successful and permanent results.

What are the Otoplasty Techniques?

Otoplasty can be performed using different techniques based on the type and degree of deformation in the patient's ear structure. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yalçın Bayram will determine the most suitable technique for you after a detailed examination.

Traditional (Surgical) Otoplasty

This is the most commonly used classic method, offering the most permanent results.

Incision Location: The surgery is performed through an incision made on the back surface of the ear, within the natural crease where the ear meets the scalp. This ensures the postoperative scar remains completely hidden and unnoticeable from the front or side.
Cartilage Reshaping: The ear cartilage is accessed through the incision. The surgeon may score or weaken the cartilage or use permanent internal sutures to reshape the cartilage into a new, natural form. The goal is often to create or enhance the missing antihelical fold and set the ear back closer to the head in an ideal position.
Closure: Once the cartilage is appropriately shaped, the skin incision is closed with aesthetic sutures. This method is considered the gold standard, especially in cases with stiff cartilage or significant deformities.

Incisionless Otoplasty (Ear Pinning with Threads)

This method, performed without external skin incisions, is sometimes referred to as "non-surgical ear reshaping."

Procedure: In this technique, special medical threads are passed under the skin using small needles to reshape the ear cartilage. The threads pull the cartilage back and secure it in the desired position.
Advantages: Its main advantages are the absence of incisions, dressings, and bandages, and a very quick recovery process.
Disadvantages: Thread otoplasty is not suitable for every patient. It may only be effective for individuals with soft cartilage and mild deformities. There is a risk of suture loosening, extrusion, or reaction over time, offering less assurance of permanence compared to the traditional surgical method. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yalçın Bayram carefully evaluates candidacy for this technique.

The Otoplasty Process: A Step-by-Step Guide from Preparation to Recovery

From the moment you decide on surgery, a transparent and comfortable process awaits you.

Pre-Operative Preparation for Otoplasty

Everything begins with a detailed consultation with Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yalçın Bayram. During this meeting, your expectations are discussed, your ear structure is examined, and a personalized surgical plan is created. All details regarding the surgical technique, type of anesthesia, and the process will be explained. You will be advised to avoid blood-thinning medications and smoking before the surgery.

Anesthesia and Operation during Otoplasty

Otoplasty is performed under anesthesia, making it a completely painless procedure.

Type of Anesthesia: The operation is typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation (light sleepiness) for adults, while general anesthesia is preferred for children to ensure their comfort and prevent movement.
Operation Duration: The surgery lasts approximately 1 to 2 hours, depending on the technique used and the degree of ear deformity.

Post-Operative Recovery Process after Otoplasty

The post-operative period is as crucial as the operation itself for the success of the outcome.

First Few Days: A protective dressing or bandage covering the ears is applied after surgery. This is usually removed after 4-5 days. Mild pain may occur during this period, but it is easily controlled with simple pain relievers.
First Few Weeks: After the bandage is removed, you will be asked to wear a soft headband (like a tennis band) or a special ear band, especially at night while sleeping, for about 2-3 weeks. This protects the sutures and prevents the ears from assuming an undesirable position.
Return to Normal Life: Most patients can comfortably return to work or school within 3 to 7 days after surgery.
Long Term: Mild swelling and tenderness in the ears are normal for the first few weeks. It's important to protect your ears from trauma and avoid contact sports for about 1-2 months. The final results settle, and the ears take their final shape over several months.

Otoplasty Costs 2025

Otoplasty costs vary depending on the type of surgical technique applied (traditional otoplasty or thread technique), the choice of anesthesia (local or general), the standards of the hospital where the surgery is performed, and the surgeon's experience. Therefore, stating a standard figure is not accurate.

The most appropriate treatment plan and precise cost information for you will be determined following a comprehensive examination by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yalçın Bayram. It's best to view this operation not just as a cost, but as a valuable investment in your lifelong self-confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions About Otoplasty (Prominent Ear Surgery)

Is otoplasty a difficult surgery?

No, otoplasty is considered one of the safest, most routine, and lowest-risk operations in aesthetic surgery. When performed by an experienced surgeon like Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yalçın Bayram, the process is quite comfortable, and the results are highly satisfying.

Will my ears return to their original state after surgery?

With the traditional surgical method, where the cartilage is permanently reshaped with sutures, the risk of the ears reverting to their original state is virtually nonexistent. The results are lifelong permanent. In the thread lift method, this risk is slightly higher compared to the surgical method.

Will there be a noticeable scar after otoplasty?

No. Since the incision is hidden within the natural crease behind the ear, there is no visible scar from the front or side once healing is complete.

Is incisionless prominent ear surgery possible?

Yes, the procedure known as "ear pinning with threads" allows for correction without external incisions. However, this method is only an ideal option for a limited number of patients with suitable cartilage structure and mild deformity.

What are the risks and complications of otoplasty?

As with any surgical procedure, otoplasty carries very low-probability risks such as infection or bleeding. With the experience of Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yalçın Bayram and your adherence to post-operative instructions, these risks are minimized.

When will I see the final results after otoplasty?

You will notice a significant difference in the new shape of your ears even when the bandages are removed. However, it may take 2 to 6 months for all swelling and edema to completely resolve, allowing the ears to achieve their final, natural form.