What is Prominent Ear Surgery (Otoplasty)?

Although non-surgical methods can be applied in the first 6 weeks in the neonatal period, normalization of the ear form after this period is only possible with surgical interventions.

Surgical interventions may vary according to the age group and physical characteristics of the patient. While general anesthesia is preferred for younger patients in otoplasty operations, local anesthesia is generally used for adult and middle-aged patients. Shaping the cartilages by suturing, shaping weakening and removing excess cartilage tissue are among the methods frequently applied in otoplasty. The suture method, which provides successful results for young patients, is frequently preferred. In advancing ages, other methods can be applied according to the physical condition of the patient and the characteristics of the deformity.

Otoplasty is a low-risk surgery. For this reason, it can be appropriately preferred in all age groups. The most common problems that patients encounter after the operation are the painful process and infection. Although the pain after otoplasty is not serious, it can be relieved with the help of painkillers. Infection risks can also be safely avoided by paying attention to the bandages and the operation area.

What Causes Prominent Ear Appearance?

The ear deformity, which is defined as the prominent ear, may be caused by the incomplete formation of the fold in the auricle called the "Antihelix" and the overdevelopment of the Conchal cartilage, which forms the "Melon Concha" section in the inner auricle. While the source of the deformity may be caused by both problems, cases where both symptoms are seen together may be encountered.

The auricle of an adult person; It is 5.5-6.5 cm long and 3.5-4 cm wide. In the side profile, the upper end is turned inward at an angle of 15-30 degrees with respect to the lower end, and there is an angle of 20-25 degrees between the ear and the head. Ears that do not have standard anatomical dimensions are examined under prominent ear deformity. In addition, it should be noted that deformity can be observed at different values in both ears. Standard anatomical values are a guide for the most ideal and proportional result.

When is Prominent Ear Surgery Performed?

Deformities detected up to the first 6 weeks of the newborn period can be intervened with bandage and mold treatment. The aim of this non-surgical method is to support the continuation of ear development at standard values. After the 6-week process, these methods, which have a very low chance of success, leave their place to the option of surgical intervention.

Before considering the operation options, it should also be considered whether the ear development has been completed or not. Although the auricle continues its development until the age of 10, the development is largely completed at the age of 4-5. Since the deformation in the auricle negatively affects the life of the patients, the most preferred period for the operation is the school years. People in other age groups who face deformation-related negativities in their social lives may also turn to otoplasty surgery.