Ear Stapling (Otoplasty)
Natural and Aesthetic Ears Compatible with your Face
Protruding ear problem is the condition where the angle of the ears with the head is more than normal. Starting in childhood, it can cause aesthetic concerns and lack of self-confidence in adulthood. Protruding ear aesthetics (otoplasty) is a surgical procedure that brings the ears to a natural angle, giving the face a more balanced and aesthetic appearance.
As Op. Dr. Şener Küçük, I perform otoplasty operations that provide permanent and natural results in both children and adults.
Treatment Process
Ear structure is evaluated in detail Applied under local anesthesia (general anesthesia in children) Takes an average of 1 – 1.5 hours Incision is made from behind the ear Cartilage is reshaped to give the ear a natural angle Closed with aesthetic stitches Discharged on the same day
Effect Duration
Results are immediately noticeable after the surgery Swelling may be seen in the first weeks The final appearance settles in 1–2 months It is a permanent procedure The risk of re-opening is extremely low in experienced surgery
Application Areas
Excessive angle between the head and the ear (protrusion) Insufficient ear folds Congenital ear asymmetries Trauma-related deformities Creating a natural ear position compatible with the face
Advantages
Symmetrical ear appearance suitable for facial aesthetics Increased self-confidence in social environments Psychological relief in children during school period Short recovery time Scars are not visible from the outside as they remain behind the ear Permanent and natural results
What is Otoplasty?
Otoplasty is a surgical procedure that provides aesthetic reshaping of the ear. The most common reason for application is the protruding ear problem. However, it can also be applied in cases such as congenital deformities of the ear, post-traumatic deformities or asymmetry.
Who is it Suitable for?
Those whose ears are too far forward compared to the head
Those with weak ear folds
Those with asymmetrical ear structure
Children older than 5 years (because ear development is completed)
Adult individuals
Those who have restrictions in hairstyle or accessory use due to aesthetic concerns
Pre-operative Preparation
The angle of the ears with the head, the fold structure and the ear cartilage thickness are evaluated
Planning is done by considering the symmetry of both ears
General health status is analyzed
The patient is informed and realistic expectations are clarified
Operation Details
Type of Anesthesia:
In children: General anesthesia
In adults: Local anesthesia or sedation
Duration: Average 1 – 1.5 hours
Incisions: Made from behind the ear, no scars remain from the outside
Technique: Cartilage shaping and fixation to the back of the ear
Stitch: Hidden, self-dissolving stitches are used
Discharge: Discharged on the same day
Recovery Process
Mild pain, edema and bruising may occur in the ears in the first days
Ears are wrapped with a protective bandage, removed after 3-5 days
A special bandaged tape or tennis band is used while sleeping in the first week
It is possible to return to social life after 7-10 days
Heavy exercise and trauma should be avoided for 3-4 weeks
Ears are shaped and the final appearance settles within 1-2 months
Is Otoplasty Permanent?
Yes. The ear is reshaped and fixed to the head. The suture material may be permanent or dissolve over time. The risk of re-opening is very low when done with the correct technique.
Advantages
Ears become more proportional to the face
Provides more comfortable hairstyle and accessory use
Provides psychological benefit, especially in children during school period
Scars are hidden behind the ear, so they are not noticeable from the outside
Gives permanent and natural results
Possible Risks
Temporary numbness in the ear
Stiffness or deformation of the cartilage (rare)
Infection
Asymmetry
Recurrent protrusion (in cases of insufficient fixation)
All these risks are minimized by the planning of an experienced surgeon and the correct technique.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will there be a scar?
No. Since the incisions are located behind the ear, the scar is not visible.
Is it a painful surgery?
There is usually mild pain and it decreases within a few days.
Will the ears return to their original state?
The risk of recurrent protrusion is very low in ears fixed with the correct technique.
At what age can it be done in children?
It can be applied from the age of 5, as ear development is completed.
