What is cosmetic ear surgery?
Cosmetic ear surgery, also known as otoplasty, is a surgical procedure to reshape, reduce or augment the size of the ears. Cosmetic ear surgery aims to create more aesthetically pleasing ears, which may be misshapen, disproportionate, or overly large. Ear deformities caused by injury or congenital conditions, such as prominent or protruding ears, may seriously affect a person's self-esteem and social life. Therefore, ear surgery, especially at a young age, can significantly improve the quality of life.
1. Prominent Ear Surgery
Prominent ear surgery is a cosmetic procedure for correcting the appearance of prominent ears and creating a more natural and pleasing look. The aim of the surgery is to reposition the ears so that they are closer to the head. This surgery can be performed on both children and adults.
Depending on the patient's needs, the procedure may also involve reshaping or resizing the ears.
How is prominent ear surgery done?
Prominent ear surgery is typically performed as an outpatient procedure. During the procedure, the surgeon will make incisions in the back of the ear and then use sutures to reposition and reshape the cartilage of the ear. In some cases, the surgeon may also remove some cartilage to create a more natural-looking ear. The procedure is completed with absorbable sutures.
In children under the age of 12, the procedure is done under general anesthesia, whereas for ages above 12, local anesthesia or sedation is used.
In cases where general anesthesia is used, staying in the hospital overnight is necessary.
Prominent ears in babies
Prominent ears in babies can largely be corrected non-surgically within the first three months with elastic bands or silicon devices. Later, the cartilage hardens and cannot be corrected without a surgical procedure. It is essential to seek treatment as soon as possible to prevent the child from experiencing self-esteem issues later in life.
Healing after prominent ear surgery
- After prominent ear surgery, patients can expect some swelling and discomfort for a few days. Edema should completely subside within two weeks.
- Pain can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication, and the patient should avoid strenuous activities for several weeks.
- In most cases, patients can return to work and normal activities within a week of the surgery. Complete recovery may take about six weeks.
- It is crucial to protect the ear from any blows after surgery.
- Patients should make sure to go to their follow-up appointments. The surgeon may allow showers after the initial control.
- After the bandages on the ears are removed, the patient will be asked to use a band for a few days to wrap the ears at night.
- Lie on your back with your head elevated, so there is no pressure on the ears after the operation.
- It may take 1-2 months for the final shape of the ear to set in fully.
Since the incisions are made behind the ear, there are no visible scars.
Frequently asked questions
The best time to have prominent ear surgery is typically when the ear reaches its full size, around the age of 5. Having it before school starts protects the child from possible psychological effects. However, prominent ear surgery can be performed at any age, and many adults choose to undergo the procedure to correct the appearance of their ears.
2.Ear Reduction
Ear reduction is a surgical procedure designed to correct overly large ears, a condition known as macrotia. Macrotia is a separate condition from prominent ears. Because prominent ears project outward, they may appear very large, but in reality, they are average-sized. However, in the case of macrotia, the ears are wider or longer than usual. Therefore, ear reduction is a different and slightly more complicated surgery than prominent ear surgery.
This anomaly is usually noticeable in the upper parts of the ear.
Ear reduction can be done on patients of all ages and provides permanent results.
How is ear reduction done?
The ear reduction procedure typically targets the upper half of the ear. It involves removing a crescent-shaped cartilage portion and skin from the scapha part of the ear. This reshapes the ear and helps to create ears in harmony with the rest of the face. Incisions are hidden in the folds of the ear, making them virtually invisible later on.
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia and takes 2 to 3 hours.
Healing after an ear reduction
- The healing process following ear reduction is relatively quick and painless. Most patients can return to work or school within a few days to a week. However, complete healing may take 2-6 weeks.
- There may be some pain following the procedure, which can be relieved with OTC pain medication.
- After the procedure, patients usually experience some swelling, which subsides within a week or two.
- Patients should make sure to go to their follow-up appointments.
- After removing the bandages, patients will be asked to use a band for a few days to wrap the ears at night.
- It is recommended to lie in a supine position with the head elevated, so there is no pressure on the ears after the operation.
- It may take 1-2 months for the final shape of the ear to set in fully.
- Sports requiring a helmet can be performed after a week, but vigorous activity and contact sports should be avoided for at least six weeks.
What is the cost of ear reduction in Turkey?
To get a price range and have all your questions answered, please schedule a consultation with us on Whatsapp +90 552 822 23 21
3. Earlobe Reduction
Earlobe reduction is specifically designed to reduce the size of earlobes that have become stretched or enlarged. Earlobes constitute a significant part of the face, especially for those who like wearing earrings. Deterioration of the shape of the earlobe can negatively affect a person's social life.
In some cases, the earlobe may be too large or drooping, which causes the ears to look out of proportion.
Apart from genetic factors, sagging or deformation of the earlobe may also occur due to frequently worn heavy earrings or piercings over the years.
Whatever the cause of the problems in the earlobes, there are surgical options to restore them.
How is earlobe reduction done?
The procedure can be performed under local anesthesia or conscious sedation and typically takes 15-40 minutes.
General anesthesia may be preferred for younger patients.
During the surgery, a small incision is made in the lower end of the earlobe. Then, excess skin, fat, and tissue are removed to reduce the size of the earlobe and restore its natural contour. The incision is then closed using sutures or dissolvable stitches.
Healing after an earlobe reduction
- Recovery is typically quick and comfortable after an earlobe reduction.
- Mild painkillers may be used for a couple of days.
- Patients may resume light exercises in a few days.
- Ears may be pierced in about two months following the procedure.
- About five months after the operation, the scar will become indistinct and not visible unless closely examined.
What is the cost of earlobe reduction in Turkey?
To get a price range and have all your questions answered, please schedule a consultation with us on Whatsapp +90 552 822 23 21