Reshape and reposition protruding ears to achieve a balanced, natural look and boost your self-confidence.
Prominent ear is the most commonly seen congenital malformation of the external ear (auricle). It is characterized by the ears protruding outward from the sides of the head more than is considered typical.
The ear completes most of its development early; the ear has largely completed its growth by the time a child is three years old.
We highly recommend performing this procedure before the child enters the social environment of preschool age (around age 4–5). This is because children with prominent ears may experience serious psychological problems and lack of confidence due to being teased or mocked by their peers. There is no obstacle to performing prominent ear surgery from four to five years old onward.
The cartilage that forms the ear can be brought back to its desired, more natural position using several techniques. The choice of technique depends on the patient’s ear structure:
Suture Technique (Threadlift): If the ear cartilage has good elasticity and can be easily shaped when bent, a non-incisional or minimally-incisional suture technique may be performed. In this method, the desired shape is achieved using sutures placed beneath the skin to reshape the cartilage. No external scar remains with this approach.
Incisional Technique: If the ear cartilage is rigid or if there is excess cartilage, an incision is made in the natural fold behind the ear. The cartilage is then scored, reshaped, and excess structures may be removed. Sutures are then placed to bring the ear closer to the skull.
Which anesthesia method is used?
Adults: The surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia.
Children: It is generally more convenient and safer to perform the surgery under general anesthesia.
How long does the prominent ear surgery last? The surgery generally lasts from forty minutes to one and a half hours.
Anticoagulants (Blood Thinners): You must stop using blood-thinning drugs 7 to 10 days before the procedure, in consultation with your doctor.
Supplements: Inform your physician about all medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal teas (like slimming teas) you consume, as some may increase bleeding.
Allergies: Please inform your physician of any known drug or substance allergies.
Smoking: Patients are strongly advised to stop smoking at least three weeks before surgery.
Alcohol: Do not consume alcohol for one week prior to the surgery.
On the Day of Surgery: Do not wear makeup, nail polish, or jewelry/piercings, and do not bring valuables.
Is hospitalization necessary? (Note: This was missing in your original text, so a standard estimate is provided.) Prominent ear surgery is usually performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning the patient is typically discharged the same day.
When can the patient return to social and professional life? Patients may return to their social life and professional life approximately one week later.
How much scarring may persist?
Suture Technique: No visible external scar remains.
Incisional Technique: Scars persist in the natural folding region behind the ear. Since they are located in this crease, their visibility decreases significantly over time.