Ear surgery is usually done to set prominent ears back, closer to the head or to reduce the size of large ears. Ears are almost fully grown by age four, and the earlier the surgery, the less discomfort (psychological and emotional) the child will have to endure. Some patients prefer to wait until adulthood to have their ear surgery.

Protruding

Large or prominent ears are often referred to as protruding. Otoplasty is the surgical procedure that some people with protruding ears choose to have, in order to make them appear less prominent. This operation is also referred to as pinnaplasty.

Misshapen

Misshapen or irregular-looking ears are often corrected by otoplasty, in order to make them appear regular.

Anesthesia:
Local, with sedation.

In/Outpatient:
Usually outpatient.

Length of Surgery:
1 hour.

Recovery:
Back to work or school: 5 to 7 days. Strenuous activity, contact sports: 1 to 2 months.

Duration of Results:
Long Term.