What is otoplasty (surgery for prominent ears)?
Otoplasty is a cosmetic procedure that corrects the shape and position of the ears. It is most often performed for prominence — ears that stand out too far from the head — but also for an irregular shape of the outer ear or insufficiently defined cartilage folds.
Prominence occurs when the cartilage of the outer ear is not folded enough, or when the ear sits at a wider angle to the head, making it appear to stick out. It is a congenital feature that does not change with growth; in children it can be a source of teasing and discomfort, while in adults it can affect self-confidence over the long term.
The aim of otoplasty is to give the ears a natural shape and position — set closer to the head and symmetrical — so that they no longer draw attention. The result is permanent, because the structure of the cartilage itself is reshaped.
The procedure can be performed in children, usually from preschool age when the ear has almost reached its full size, as well as in adults at any age. At Medical Time, the shape and cartilage of the ears are assessed before the procedure, and the plan is tailored individually.
Who is ear surgery for — indications
Otoplasty is recommended when protruding or irregularly shaped ears interfere with everyday life or affect self-confidence. It is equally suitable for children and adults, and the decision is always a personal one.
The procedure is considered in the following situations:
- prominent, protruding ears that stand out too far from the head
- noticeable asymmetry — one ear stands out more than the other
- insufficiently defined or absent natural folds of the outer ear
- an irregular shape or size of the outer ear
- distress in children caused by teasing about the appearance of the ears
- a wish among adults to permanently correct prominence and wear short hairstyles more freely
- correction of previously operated or injured ears
How ear surgery is performed — the technique
Otoplasty is performed through an incision made on the back of the ear, in the crease where the ear meets the head, so the scar is hidden and practically invisible. Through this approach the surgeon reaches the cartilage of the outer ear.
The surgeon then reshapes the cartilage — folding it, thinning it or removing a small part if needed — and secures it in a new, closer position with special sutures, forming the natural folds that were missing. This permanently sets the ear closer to the head and gives it a harmonious shape.
The goal is a natural result and symmetry — ears that look neat, not overly flattened or unnaturally tightened. For this reason both ears are shaped in harmony, with careful comparison throughout the procedure.
In children the procedure is usually performed under brief general anaesthesia, while in adults and older children it is often carried out under local anaesthesia. At Medical Time the technique and type of anaesthesia are agreed according to the patient's age and wishes, or those of the parents.
Preparing for ear surgery
Preparation begins with an examination and assessment of the shape and cartilage of the ears, on the basis of which the surgical plan and type of anaesthesia are agreed. In children particular attention is paid to age and cooperation, so a suitable form of anaesthesia is chosen.
The following is usually requested before the procedure, with the exact extent adapted to age and health:
Honest disclosure of your medical history and habits is important for safety and for a smooth recovery.
- laboratory blood tests, including clotting parameters
- for general anaesthesia, a paediatric or anaesthesiologist assessment if needed
- a list of medications the patient is taking, especially blood thinners
- stopping smoking before and after the procedure in adults, as it slows healing
- information about chronic conditions, allergies and previous procedures
- washing the hair before the procedure and arranging care in the first few days
- arranged accompaniment for the journey home after the procedure
Course of the operation, anaesthesia and duration
The type of anaesthesia depends on age. In adults and older children, otoplasty is most often performed under local anaesthesia, so the patient is awake but the ear area is completely numb. In younger children, brief general anaesthesia is chosen for comfort and a calm procedure.
Once the anaesthesia takes effect, the surgeon makes an incision at the back of the ear, reshapes the cartilage and secures it in its new position with special sutures, forming natural folds. The same is done on the other ear, with careful attention to symmetry. The incision is closed and a soft dressing is applied to the ears.
The procedure usually takes around one to one and a half hours, depending on its complexity and whether both ears are corrected. Because it is often performed under local anaesthesia, the patient most often goes home the same day, with accompaniment and clear care instructions.
After the operation the ears are bandaged with a protective dressing that holds them in the new position and protects them during the first days. Patient comfort and safety come first throughout the entire procedure.
Recovery after ear surgery — realistically, in stages
Recovery is most often short and easy. In the first days the ears are bandaged, with mild swelling, tenderness and a feeling of tightness; pain is usually mild and well controlled with medication. After a few days the dressing is replaced with an elastic band.
An elastic band (like a sweatband) is worn day and night during the first weeks, and then only at night over the following period, to protect the ears and keep them in their new position until the cartilage has fully healed. Wearing the band is an important part of recovery and affects how lasting the result is.
Children return to their usual activities within a few days, avoiding rough play and sports during the first weeks. Adults usually return to desk work within a few days. Contact sports and activities in which the ears could be injured are avoided for longer.
The scar on the back of the ear is hidden and becomes practically invisible over time. Swelling subsides gradually, and the final appearance is seen after a few weeks. At Medical Time, recovery is monitored through follow-up appointments and recommendations are given.
- first days: protective dressing, mild swelling and tenderness of the ears
- wearing an elastic band day and night during the first weeks, then at night
- avoiding rough play and contact sports during the first weeks
- return to usual activities within a few days
- the final appearance and maturing of the hidden scar over the following weeks
Risks and possible side effects
Otoplasty is a simple and safe procedure with very good results and high patient satisfaction, but like any operation it carries certain risks worth knowing about before deciding. Most patients recover without complications.
Possible side effects and risks include:
Following the instructions, wearing the band regularly and protecting the ears during the first weeks reduce the risks and contribute to the durability of the result. Everything is discussed openly before the procedure.
- swelling, bruising and temporary tenderness of the ears
- transient numbness or altered sensation of the skin of the ear
- infection or fluid collection, which occur rarely
- asymmetry or a slight difference in the position of the left and right ear
- partial return of the ear towards a prominent position if the band is not worn as advised
- a thickened scar on the back of the ear in those whose skin is prone to scarring
- general risks associated with anaesthesia, which are assessed before the procedure
Why have ear surgery at Medical Time
Ear surgery is a small procedure with a big effect on appearance and self-confidence, in both children and adults. At the Medical Time hospital in Belgrade, otoplasty is performed by an experienced team with a careful and patient approach, especially with our youngest patients.
The procedure is often performed under local anaesthesia, with a short recovery and a return home the same day. From consultation, through assessment, to follow-ups, everything is available in one place, with clear information and realistic expectations.
- an experienced team and a patient approach with children and adults
- the option of the procedure under local anaesthesia in adults and older children
- a scar hidden on the back of the ear
- a natural result and carefully matched symmetry
- modern equipment and high safety standards
- follow-up appointments and support throughout recovery
Price — ear surgery
The price of ear surgery depends on the complexity of the correction, whether one or both ears are treated, and the chosen type of anaesthesia (local or general, particularly in children). You receive the exact price and plan after a consultation and examination.
For an individual assessment and all the information, get in touch — we will be glad to answer any question.
- Ear surgery (otoplasty) — both ears
- Correction of one ear
- Otoplasty in children under general anaesthesia
For an individual assessment and appointment, call 062-399-888.
Frequently asked questions about ear surgery
In children, otoplasty is most often performed from preschool age, when the ear has almost reached its full size. The procedure can also be done later, at any age, just as successfully in adults.
In adults and older children the procedure is performed under local anaesthesia, so the ear area is numb and you feel no pain during the operation. In younger children, brief general anaesthesia is used. After the procedure there is mild tenderness and a feeling of tightness.
The incision is made on the back of the ear, in the crease where the ear meets the head, so the scar is hidden and becomes practically invisible over time.
Recovery is usually short. The ears are bandaged for the first days, and most people return to their usual activities within a few days. Rough play and contact sports are avoided for longer, and the final appearance is seen after a few weeks.
The elastic band is worn day and night during the first weeks, and then only at night over the following period, to protect the ears and keep them in their new position until the cartilage has fully healed. Wearing the band is important for the durability of the result.
Yes. Otoplasty reshapes the structure of the cartilage itself, so the result is permanent. By following the instructions and wearing the band during the first weeks, the ears remain in their new position, closer to the head.
Yes. When both ears are prominent, they are usually corrected in the same procedure, with careful attention to symmetry, so that the ears look harmonious and neat.
The price depends on the complexity of the correction, whether one or both ears are treated, and the type of anaesthesia, so it is determined after a consultation and examination. For an individual assessment and appointment, call 062-399-888.