Ear Correction Surgery (Otoplasty)

Ear correction surgery or Otoplasty involves correction of natural deviations in shape or size of the ears. Most frequently this is to set protruding ears back closer to the head, to reduce the size of large ears, or to rectify a deformity of the ear itself or the earlobe. Protruding or misshaped ears can be a source of embarrassment and seen as unattractive. The surgery may be done on adult men or women and also on children from age 4.

Procedure: The surgery involves removing skin and reshaping cartilage from behind the ears. The ears are then stitched into the new position. The incision marks are concealed in the natural crease behind the ear. Patients should not smoke at all at least 1-2 weeks before and after surgery. It is normally done under local anesthesia, sometimes with sedation also. Surgery normally takes 2-3 hours. Normally done as outpatient (home same day).

Recovery: Recovery takes about 14 days, during which time patient must be very careful. The patient must wear big bandages on the head for 2-3 days, a headband for 1 week constantly and for a further 2 weeks during the night. Stitches are removed after about 12 days. Recommended stay in Prague and back to work 7-14 days. Activity should be minimised for 3-5 days after surgery and strenuous exercise and contact sports avoided for 1-2 months. Scars are hidden in the natural fold behind the ears.

Stay in clinic:	No
Recovery:	About 14 days
Stay in Prague:	7-14 days
Final result:	6-8 weeks

Before treatment	After treatment