Otoplasty – Correction of Protruding Ears & Aesthetic Restoration of Ear Pinnae
Otoplasty for symmetrical ears and greater self-confidence
Otoplasty is a surgical procedure that corrects imperfections and deformities in the auricle, or ears. It is mainly used to correct protruding ears, also known as "protruding ears", but can also address problems involving the helix, anthelix, or lobe.
Ears significantly affect the overall appearance of the face. When they are prominent, asymmetrical, or have imperfections, they can attract disproportionate attention and affect self-confidence, especially in children and adolescents.
With otoplasty, the ears acquire a more natural position, better symmetry, and a more harmonious relationship with the head and face.
What is otoplasty?
Otoplasty is plastic surgery performed to correct the position, shape, or symmetry of the ears.
The most common indication is protruding ears, where the ears protrude more than normal. In rarer cases, the surgery may involve deformities of the helix, antihelix, lobe, or even pinna reconstruction when it is missing.
What are loose ears?
The physiologically acceptable angle between the earlobe and the head is about 20 to 30 degrees.
When this angle is greater, the ears appear more prominent. This is called floppy ears or protruding ears.
The problem is usually the result of a genetic predisposition and can be detected at birth.
Why choose otoplasty?
Otoplasty can offer:
- Correction of protruding ears
- Better symmetry between the two ears
- More natural position of the ear flaps
- Improving the overall harmony of the face
- Boosting self-confidence
- Permanent result
- Inconspicuous incisions behind the ear
- Safe to use even in children from the age of 6
At what age can otoplasty be performed?
Otoplasty is one of the few plastic surgery procedures that can be performed on children.
It can be applied from the age of 6, as at this age ear development is largely complete, approximately 80%.
In children, the procedure is often performed before entering school, in order to avoid possible teasing or negative comments that may affect their psychology and sociability.
There is no age restriction for adults. The surgery can be performed at any time the patient decides to correct the aesthetic problem.
Who is otoplasty for?
In open rhinoplasty, a small incision is made in the styloid process, that is, in the area between the nostrils.
This technique offers the plastic surgeon better visibility and greater precision in correcting the nasal skeleton. It is often chosen in more complex cases, especially when aesthetic and functional problems coexist.
In cases of functional rehabilitation, the surgery can be performed in collaboration with an ENT specialist, so that the respiratory system can also be properly treated.
Who are suitable candidates?
The operation is aimed at:
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Children from 6 years old and above
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Teenagers
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Adults of all ages
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People with protruding ears
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People with asymmetry in the ears
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People with defects in the helix, antihelix, or lobe
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People who want to improve the appearance and symmetry of their ears
Is otoplasty painful?
Otoplasty is considered one of the most painless plastic surgery procedures.
The pain is effectively managed with mild analgesics. The patient may experience slight discomfort or numbness due to the pressure of the elastic bandage.
Postoperative course
After rhinoplasty, the patient remains in the clinic for a few hours or, for precautionary reasons, overnight.
Should not drive for the first 24 hours.
It is normal for:
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Edema
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Bruising around the nose and eyes
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Feeling of heaviness or discomfort
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Nasal congestion
These symptoms gradually subside and usually improve significantly within the first week.
The special splint remains on the nose for approximately 10 days and helps stabilize and reattach the osteochondral skeleton.
Possible complications
When the procedure is performed by an experienced plastic surgeon, complications are rare.
Possible complications are:
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Hematoma
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Mild bleeding
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Inflammation
These conditions are fully treated with appropriate medical intervention.
When will the result be visible?
The difference is visible when the second elastic bandage is removed, approximately the 12th day after surgery.
Although the ears may still be swollen, improvement is evident. As the swelling subsides, the appearance gradually improves.
The final result becomes visible after approximately 3 months.
Ωτοπλαστική για φυσικό και συμμετρικό
αποτέλεσμα
Otoplasty is a safe and effective procedure for correcting protruding ears and other aesthetic imperfections of the auricle.
With proper planning, an experienced plastic surgeon and adherence to postoperative instructions, the result is natural, symmetrical and permanent, helping the patient feel more comfortable and confident in their daily lives.
Postoperative course
After the surgery, if it has been performed under local anesthesia and sedation, the patient can return home the same day.
If general anesthesia has been used, discharge from the clinic is usually the next day.
After otoplasty:
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An elastic bandage is worn for about a week.
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It is then replaced by a thinner bandage or special ribbon.
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Antibiotic and anti-inflammatory treatment is administered.
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At least two follow-up visits are made until the sutures are absorbed.
When do I return to daily activities?
From the first few days you can do light activities, with caution.
Return to work can be done:
After about 1 week, if the bandage does not bother you.
After 12 to 14 days, when the bandage has been removed and only a special elastic band is used at night.
For about a month, the following should be avoided:
Intense exercise
Sun exposure
Activities that may injure the area
How long does otoplasty last and what anesthesia is required?
The duration of otoplasty depends on the type and extent of the problem. It usually does not exceed 2 hours.
In children aged 6 to 15 years, general anesthesia is preferred so that the surgical experience is as calm and painless as possible.
In people over 15 years of age, the procedure is usually performed with local anesthesia and sedation.
Is the result permanent?
Yes. The result of otoplasty is permanent, as long as the procedure is performed correctly and the postoperative instructions are followed.
Useful information about treatment
| Information | details |
|---|---|
| Type of surgery | Otoplasty |
| Most common indication | Protruding ears/protruding ears |
| Age of application | From 6 years and up |
| Duration of surgery | Up to 2 hours |
| Anesthesia in children | General |
| Anesthesia in adolescents/adults | Local with intoxication |
| Hospitalization | Usually not required with local anesthesia |
| Elastic bandage | About 1 week |
| Thin ribbon | For a few more days / often at night |
| Absorption of sutures | Approximately 12 days |
| Final result | Approximately in 3 months |
| Duration of effect | Permanent |
The first visit to the plastic surgeon
During the first visit, the plastic surgeon:
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Discuss the reasons why you want the surgery
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Assesses whether expectations are realistic
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Records medical history
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Takes measurements to assess the size of the problem
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Photographs the area for preoperative planning
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Explains the technique to be followed
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Sets the date of the operation
In the case of children, it is important to have proper information and a calm approach so that the child feels safe.
What tests are needed before otoplasty?
Before otoplasty, the usual preoperative examinations are performed, such as:
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General blood tests
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Electrocardiogram
Preoperative assessment is conducted for safety and preparation purposes prior to the procedure.
frequently asked questions
From what age can otoplasty be performed?
The surgery can be performed from the age of 6.
Is it only suitable for children?
No. Otoplasty can be performed on adolescents and adults of any age.
Does otoplasty hurt?
Όχι ιδιαίτερα. Ο πόνος είναι ήπιος και ελέγχεται με απλά αναλγητικά.
Will the incision be visible?
Not easily. The incision is made behind the ear, within the natural crease.
When do I return to work?
Usually after 1 week, as long as the bandage doesn't bother you.
When will the final result be visible?
The final result is visible after approximately 3 months.
Is the correction permanent?
Yes, the result of otoplasty is permanent.
Belly
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advice before and after treatment
Tips before otoplasty
- Inform the doctor about your medical history.
- Please list any medication you are taking.
- Complete the necessary tests.
- Συζητήστε με σαφήνεια το αποτέλεσμα που επιθυμείτε.
- In the case of a child, prepare them calmly and positively for the procedure.
Tips after otoplasty
- Wear the bandage according to the instructions.
- Do not pull or press on the ears.
- Avoid strenuous exercise for about a month.
- Do not expose yourself to the sun for the first time.
- Keep up with follow-up visits.
- Use the special ribbon at night for as long as your doctor recommends.
