Face
Otoplasty
Otoplasty corrects the position and shape of prominent or misshapen ears. It may be offered to adults and children alike, with the indication decided in consultation.
What is it?
Otoplasty (ear surgery) is a surgical procedure that aims to modify the shape, size or position of the ears to correct their protrusion. This procedure is often performed on children from the age of five, but it can also be carried out on adults. The procedure aims to reduce the protrusion of the ears or to treat ears that are deformed or malformed due to a birth defect, injury, or illness.
Process
Preliminary consultation
The first step toward your transformation is a consultation with our team of professionals. We will discuss your goals, examine your ears, and answer all your questions.
Preoperative preparation
We will give you precise guidelines on what to do before surgery, including recommendations on your diet, taking medication, and giving up certain habits such as smoking.
The procedure
Otoplasty is generally performed under general anesthesia for children and under local anesthesia for adults. The duration of the procedure varies depending on the specificity and type of procedure performed.
Recovery
After the operation, you will receive instructions on how to care for your ears at home, including how to manage discomfort and prevent infections.
Final result
Once your ears have fully healed, you can begin to enjoy the results of otoplasty: proportionate, well-positioned ears that enhance your appearance and self-confidence.
Why choose our clinic?
Professional expertise
Our team of surgeons is highly qualified and experienced in performing otoplasties, for a result suited to each patient's morphology.
Personalized care
We take the time to understand your goals and needs, and we design a treatment plan that is unique to you.
Smooth recovery
Comprehensive post-operative follow-up supports healing and the return to activity.
Expected results
1 hDuration of the procedure70 %Recovery after 2 weeks90 %Recovery after 1 month
Before / after results
Otoplasty: definition, indications and age
Otoplasty is a surgical procedure that changes the shape, size or position of the ears. It is frequently performed to correct prominent ears, but can also treat various deformities of the auricle.
What otoplasty corrects
Otoplasty mainly aims to reduce the prominence of the ears (prominent ears) by recreating the natural folds of the cartilage and bringing the ear closer to the head. It can also correct other deformities of the auricle, whether present from birth or resulting from an injury. The goal is a natural and symmetrical appearance.
At what age can it be considered?
Otoplasty is often performed in children from around the age of five, the age at which the ears have generally reached their definitive size. It can equally be performed in adulthood, at any point in life. In children, the patient's motivation and comfort are taken into account in the decision.
Frequent motivations
- Correct prominent ears that are bothersome aesthetically.
- Improve the symmetry between the two ears.
- Treat a deformity of the cartilage of the auricle.
- Boost self-confidence, particularly in children or adolescents.
How it unfolds, anesthesia and technique
Understanding how the procedure unfolds helps to approach it more calmly, particularly when it concerns a child. The technique is adapted to each case.
Anesthesia
Otoplasty is generally performed under general anesthesia in children and under local anesthesia in adults, according to the team's assessment. The duration of the procedure varies depending on the technique and the deformity to be corrected, but most often remains on the order of an hour.
Principle of the procedure
The incision is most often made in the fold behind the ear, a discreet area. The surgeon reshapes or repositions the cartilage using sutures and, if necessary, removes part of it in order to recreate the natural contours of the auricle. Both ears are treated when the indication concerns both sides, for the sake of symmetry.
After the procedure
A dressing and then a supportive headband are usually put in place to protect the ears and hold them in their new position. Precise instructions are given for home care and the prevention of infections.
Aftercare, recovery and results
The most frequent questions concern recovery, wearing the headband and the stability of the result. The timeframes given are orders of magnitude that vary from one person to another.
The immediate aftermath
Swelling, tenderness and sometimes bruising are normal in the first days and gradually subside. Wearing a supportive headband is usually recommended, often continuously at first and then at night for a period defined by the surgeon. It is advisable to avoid impacts on the ears during healing.
Return to activities
Most people resume a normal life, including school for children, within a few days to two weeks according to the surgeon's approval. Contact sports and activities that pose a risk to the ears are postponed longer.
Durability of the result
The results of otoplasty are generally long-lasting: the ears keep their new position over time. The result is fully appreciated once healing is complete and the swelling has disappeared, over several weeks to a few months.
Otoplasty in children and adults, preparing the project
Otoplasty concerns both children and adults, with particularities to be aware of depending on age. A clear dialogue with your surgeon contributes to a calm project.
In children
In children, otoplasty is often considered from around the age of five, once the ears are close to their definitive size. It may be motivated by a felt discomfort, particularly in group settings. The child's motivation and comfort are taken into account, and the procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia for their wellbeing.
In adults
In adults, otoplasty can be performed at any age and is frequently done under local anesthesia. Many people choose to have it later in life, once the personal decision has been made. The technical principle remains similar, adapted to the deformity to be corrected and the quality of the cartilage.
Preparing for and living the project
- Report medical history and follow the preoperative instructions.
- Plan to wear a supportive headband according to the surgeon's instructions.
- Avoid impacts and contact sports during healing.
- Discuss expectations openly for a natural and symmetrical result.
Frequently asked questions
What age do you need to be for an otoplasty?
Otoplasty can be performed once the ears have reached their full size, generally after the age of five. However, many adults also choose to have an otoplasty.
How long does recovery take after an otoplasty?
Recovery after otoplasty varies, but most people can expect substantial healing after two weeks and complete healing after six weeks.
Is otoplasty permanent?
Yes, the results of otoplasty are generally permanent. Your ears should maintain their new shape for the rest of your life.
Does otoplasty leave visible scars?
The incision is most often made in the fold behind the ear, which generally makes the scar discreet and barely visible once healed. The quality of the scar depends on individual factors and on following the postoperative care. Your surgeon explains the location of the incisions according to the technique used.
Do you have to wear a headband after otoplasty?
Wearing a supportive headband is frequently recommended after the procedure to protect and hold the ears in their new position during healing. The duration and details are specified by your surgeon, often continuously for the first days and then at night for a defined period.
Next step
Have questions?
Discuss your goals with our team during a personalised consultation.
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