Prominent ear surgery (otoplasty) is a plastic surgery procedure that people undergo to correct congenital or acquired deformities in the shape of the ears.
Prominent Ears: Meaning and Surgery
What Are Prominent Ears?
Prominent ears are a condition in which the ears protrude at a greater angle than normal. The condition is usually congenital and can be inherited, but it can sometimes also develop as a result of an injury or infection. Prominent ears do not cause any health problems, but in some people they can lead to psychological issues such as lack of self-confidence and social withdrawal.
What Is the Normal Structure of the Ear?
The ear consists of three parts: the outer ear, the middle ear and the inner ear. The outer ear includes the auricle (pinna), which forms the visible part of the ear, and the ear canal. The auricle is a structure that collects sound waves from outside and transmits them to the ear canal. A normal auricle sits at a certain angle to the head and is generally aligned parallel to the head. In prominent ears, however, this angle is usually wider and the ears stick out further.
What Causes Prominent Ears?
Prominent ears are usually a genetic condition and are mostly present from birth. During the development of the cartilage that forms the auricle, abnormal development may occur in a particular part of the cartilage, leading to a deformity. Sometimes this condition may be associated with a particular syndrome.
When Is Prominent Ear Surgery Performed?
Prominent ear surgery is usually performed for aesthetic reasons. Patients generally opt for this surgery when they feel socially uncomfortable because of their appearance. In children, prominent ear surgery is usually performed before school age, at around 5-6 years old. However, adults can also have this surgery.
Is There a Non-Surgical Treatment Option for Prominent Ears?
Yes, there are non-surgical treatment options, but they are generally effective in newborn babies and very young children. This is because at these ages the ear cartilage is still very flexible and can be shaped. This flexibility is used to keep the ears in their normal position and create a normal ear shape with special ear splints or tapes.
How Is Prominent Ear Surgery Performed?
Prominent ear surgery, medically known as otoplasty, is a procedure usually performed under local anaesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision at the back of the ear and can then shape the ear cartilage, partially remove it or fix it in a new position with stitches. The operation is usually completed within 1-2 hours and the patient is allowed to go home the same day.
Planning Prominent Ear Surgery
The scope of prominent ear surgery varies according to the patient's needs and the complexity of the operation. For detailed information, it is recommended to schedule a consultation with the doctor who will perform the procedure.
Prominent Ear Surgery in Istanbul: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Çiğdem Karadağ
Istanbul is one of Türkiye’s centres for aesthetic surgery. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Çiğdem Karadağ, one of the plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgery specialists who perform prominent ear surgery (otoplasty), offers her patients individualised treatment plans.
Which Doctor Should I See for Prominent Ear Surgery?
Prominent ear surgery is generally performed by plastic surgeons or ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialists. Both specialities have the training and skills needed to treat prominent ears. When making your choice, it is important to pay attention to your doctor's training, certifications and experience.
Does the State Cover Otoplasty Surgery?
In Türkiye, the cost of otoplasty surgery can sometimes be covered by the state. However, this depends on individual circumstances and health policies. Generally, for the state to cover such an operation, the prominent ear condition must significantly affect the individual's quality of life. For definitive information, you should contact your local healthcare provider or your insurance company.
What to Expect After Prominent Ear Surgery
After prominent ear surgery, the ears may take on a more natural shape and the lack of self-confidence caused by prominent ears may lessen. However, as with any surgical procedure, otoplasty also has risks. These risks include infection, bleeding, opening of the stitches or complications related to anaesthesia. These risks should be discussed with your surgeon in advance.
Prominent Ear Surgery Specialist on Bağdat Avenue: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Çiğdem Karadağ
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Çiğdem Karadağ sees her patients at her office on Bağdat Avenue and performs her operations at Altunizade Acıbadem Hospital and Medipol Acıbadem Regional Hospital.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Karadağ prepares a special treatment plan for each patient. Throughout the treatment process, she listens to all her patients' needs and concerns and makes sure they feel comfortable at every step.
If you are looking for a plastic surgeon (doctor) in Istanbul, you can find out more about Assoc. Prof. Dr. Çiğdem Karadağ.
Most Frequently Asked Questions and Answers About Prominent Ear Surgery
Question: Is prominent ear surgery a painful procedure?
Answer: Prominent ear surgery is generally performed under general or local anaesthesia, so pain is usually not felt during the procedure. After surgery, mild discomfort is usually felt, but this can generally be controlled with painkillers.
Question: When are the results of prominent ear surgery visible?
Answer: Results are visible immediately after the operation. However, full recovery and the final results can generally take a few weeks. Post-operative swelling and bruising usually resolve within a few weeks.
Question: When can I return to work after prominent ear surgery?
Answer: Most patients can return to normal activities and work one week after prominent ear surgery. However, every patient is different, and the recovery time depends on the individual and the procedure performed.
Question: Does prominent ear surgery leave a scar?
Answer: Prominent ear surgery is usually performed through an incision behind the ear, hidden in the natural folds of the ear. For this reason, any scar is usually not visible and becomes even less noticeable over time.
Question: What are the risks of prominent ear surgery?
Answer: As with any surgical procedure, prominent ear surgery has risks. These include infection, bleeding, anaesthesia-related complications and possible stitch problems during recovery. However, these risks can be greatly reduced when the operation is performed by an experienced surgeon.
