Otoplasty/Bat Ear/Prominent Correction
What is Otoplasty?
Otoplasty is a cosmetic procedure designed to correct the size, shape, or position of the ears. It is commonly performed to address protruding or misshapen ears, whether due to genetics, injury, or previous surgery. Otoplasty can be performed on both children (typically over the age of 5, when the ears are fully developed) and adults who wish to enhance the appearance of their ears.
The procedure involves making small incisions behind the ears to access the cartilage. The surgeon then reshapes, repositions, or removes excess cartilage to create a more natural and balanced look. The incisions are strategically placed to minimize visible scarring.
Otoplasty is usually performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on the patient’s age and the extent of the correction. It typically takes 1 to 2 hours, and most patients can return home the same day. Recovery involves avoiding strenuous activity during healing.
One of the greatest benefits of otoplasty is the boost in self-confidence it provides. Individuals who have felt self-conscious about their ears for years often report feeling more comfortable and satisfied with their appearance after surgery.
Otoplasty is a safe, effective procedure that offers long-lasting results — helping patients achieve facial harmony and renewed confidence.
Otoplasty Complications: What You Need to Know About Risks and Recurrence
Otoplasty, also known as ear reshaping surgery or cosmetic ear surgery, is a safe and effective procedure used to correct prominent or protruding ears. However, like any surgical procedure, it carries certain risks. One of the more common complications is the loosening or early dissolution of internal stitches (sutures). These dissolvable sutures are used to maintain the ear’s new shape and position after correction.
If these stitches dissolve prematurely or fail to hold the cartilage securely, the ear may revert to its original protruding position—a condition known as ear pinning recurrence. This recurrence may become noticeable within the first few months post-surgery and may lead to visible asymmetry or patient dissatisfaction.
Several factors can increase the risk of recurrence, such as excessive physical activity, improper post-operative care, trauma to the ear during healing, or individual healing responses. In such cases, revision otoplasty may be needed to restore the desired ear contour. While successful, revision surgery can be more complex due to scar tissue and previous alterations.
To reduce the risk of complications after otoplasty, patients should follow all aftercare instructions diligently and attend scheduled follow-up visits with their plastic surgeon.