What is Otoplasty?
The word “oto-” means “ear” and the word “-plasty” means “change shape”. Otoplasty surgery, also known as prominent ear correction or prominent ear surgery, is performed in cases where the ears are significantly protruding or large.
Protruding ear deformity refers to the situation where the angle between the earlobe and the head is greater than normal. This deformity sometimes occurs with flattening of the ear fold and an increase in cartilage height. However, this surgery not only puts the ear back, but also poses a risk of reopening if accompanying pathologies are not intervened.

Why is Otoplasty Performed?
People choose otoplasty for various reasons:
1. Congenital Anomalies: Some people may not find the shape or size of their ears satisfactory. Otoplasty is preferred to correct congenital ear anomalies.

2. Auditory Problems: In some cases, the position of the ears can affect hearing function. Otoplasty may also be performed to correct such functional problems.

3. Injuries: Ear deformities resulting from accidents or trauma may cause people to choose otoplasty.

Are the Results of Otoplasty Permanent?
Although the new shape and position of the ears after prominent ear surgery are generally permanent, some changes may occur over time. As a person ages, a natural aging process occurs in the skin and tissues. During this process, the ears may also undergo minor changes. Especially with the decrease in skin elasticity, the ears may sag a little. Healing of the stitches made during otoplasty is also important. During the healing process, stitch lines may become apparent, but they usually become less noticeable over time.
How is prominent ear aesthetics (surgery) performed?
Prominent ear aesthetics is a surgical procedure performed behind the ear through a very small incision. In this procedure, a permanent improvement is achieved in the auricle. During the surgery, the cartilage structures in the ear are brought to the appropriate angle and shaped using permanent stitches. In this way, the unwanted prominent shape of the ear is corrected and a more natural appearance is achieved.
The biggest advantage of the surgery is that there is no possibility of the prominent ear deformity reoccurring. So, the correction once made is usually permanent. During the surgery, general anesthesia is applied to children under the age of 10-12, while local anesthesia can be applied to older people. The surgery takes approximately one hour for both ears.
After the surgery, a compressive bandage is applied to the ears. People who do not undergo general anesthesia are discharged from the hospital on the same day. Bandages on the ears are not removed for 5 days. At the end of this period, the bandages are removed by the doctor and a tennis player’s headband is placed on the patients’ ears.
There are no visible scars after prominent ear aesthetics, and successfully performed surgeries increase people’s self-confidence and enable them to have a more positive outlook on life.
Things to Consider After Otoplasty
Some important points to consider after otoplasty are:
1. Avoid Pressure and Friction: Avoid applying direct pressure or rubbing your ears after surgery.
2. Head Height: Sleep with your head supported by a high pillow. This may help reduce swelling.
3. Stitch Care: Take care of the stitches as recommended by your doctor and consult your doctor immediately if you show any signs of infection.

How Long After Ear Aesthetic Surgery Can I Return to My Normal Life?
The process of returning to normal life after prominent ear aesthetic surgery may vary depending on the person’s recovery speed and your surgeon’s recommendations. You can be discharged from the hospital immediately after surgery, usually on the same day. However, during this period, there may be a mild headache, mild discomfort and a feeling of pressure in the ears. You can return to light activities within a few days after surgery. However, heavy sports or exercise should be avoided. Bandages on the ears are usually kept for 5 days and removed at the end of this period. Once the bandages are removed, you can return to normal daily activities within a week. However, it is important to avoid applying excessive pressure to the ears, lifting heavy loads and trauma. Swelling and tenderness of the ears may continue for the first month after surgery. During this period, it is important to protect yourself from the sun and excessive heat and to stay away from environments that pose a risk of infection, such as swimming pools or the sea. Swelling and tenderness in the ears usually decrease within the first 6 months. However, the full recovery process may take a little longer. During this period, it is important to follow your doctor’s recommendations and not neglect regular check-ups.
Are there risks to otoplasty?
Otoplasty surgery, like every surgical procedure, has certain risks. Among these the most