Prominent Ear Correction is a surgical procedure used to re-set the position of prominent ears, moving them closer in towards the head. It is commonly performed on children over the age of 5, when the ear is fully developed, although adults can undergo this procedure too. Otoplasty removes the embarrassment of having large bat-like ears, and instead provides the child or adult with aesthetically pleasing ears and overall more confidence in their outward appearance.

How does it work?
The surgeon makes a lengthways incision down the back of the ear. Cartilage from the ear is thinned, sculpted and folded if needed using fine stitches to hold the fold in place. The incision is then closed and bandages applied to hold the new ear position firm.

How long does surgery take?
Depending upon the amount of work required, surgery will take between 1 – 2 hours to complete. Patients are normally administered a general anaesthetic, but are rarely required to stay in hospital overnight.

What is the recovery time?
Bandages are removed after 7 – 10 days, and replaced by lighter bandages. A full recovery follows soon afterwards, although it is recommended to avoid for about a month any activity in which the ear may be bent.

How long will it last?
Otoplasty surgery produces permanent results.

Are there any side effects?
Bruising, swelling and soreness of the ear is to be expected following the procedure, as is nausea from the general anaesthetic administered. A slight loss of hearing may also result as a by-product of the swelling, but will last no more than a few days. In general, all side effects will have subsided within a week.

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