Otoplasty: Subtle Surgery, Profound Impact
Ear surgery — technically known as otoplasty — is one of the most emotionally impactful aesthetic procedures available. Prominent or protruding ears, irregular ear shape, or asymmetry can be a source of significant self-consciousness from childhood onwards. Otoplasty corrects these concerns with a straightforward surgical procedure that produces permanent results.
Turkey’s plastic surgeons perform high volumes of otoplasty for both adult and paediatric patients, offering expertise and pricing that attracts international patients seeking this specific procedure.
What Otoplasty Can Address
The most common indication for otoplasty is prominent ears — ears that protrude significantly from the head due to underdevelopment or absence of the antihelical fold, or due to an overly deep conchal bowl. The procedure creates or enhances the natural folds of the ear, bringing it closer to the head to a natural and proportionate position.
Otoplasty can also address macrotia (oversized ears), asymmetry between the two ears, and certain congenital ear deformities. For ears with significant structural deficiency (microtia), a more complex ear reconstruction procedure is required — this is a specialised subspecialty distinct from standard otoplasty.
The Procedure
Otoplasty is performed under local anaesthetic in adults and older children, or under general anaesthetic in younger children. Incisions are made behind the ear in the natural crease, providing access to the cartilage without any visible external scarring. The cartilage is then reshaped using scoring, sutures or a combination of techniques to create the desired ear position and contour. The procedure takes approximately 60 to 90 minutes per side.
Age Considerations
Otoplasty can be performed once ear development is complete — typically from age five or six onwards. Many families choose to have the procedure during childhood to spare children the social difficulties that prominent ears can cause. Adults of any age can also benefit from the procedure.
Recovery
A head bandage is worn for the first week to protect the ears during initial healing. After the bandage is removed, a lighter headband is worn at night for an additional four to six weeks to protect the ears during sleep. Most adult patients return to normal daily activities within one week.
Cost
Otoplasty in Western Europe costs €2,500 to €5,000. In Turkey at a specialist clinic, the procedure costs €1,200 to €2,500 all-inclusive. Find verified otoplasty specialists at drvisor.com.