Few cosmetic procedures change a patient’s daily life as completely as otoplasty. Prominent ears are not painful and they cause no medical harm, but they shape behaviour from childhood: hairstyle choices made to conceal them, hats avoided, photographs taken from particular angles only. Otoplasty resolves the cause and ends the daily management. It is one of the most quietly transformative procedures we perform.
Why Ears Are Prominent
Prominent ears are usually the result of an underdeveloped antihelical fold (the curved ridge inside the ear) or a deep conchal bowl that projects the ear away from the head. The condition is congenital and runs in families. It does not improve with age.
For Children and for Adults
| Children (typically age 6+) | Adults | |
|---|---|---|
| Anaesthetic | General | Local with sedation, or general |
| Why act now | Ears are 90% fully grown by age 6; intervention before secondary school avoids the peak years of self-consciousness | Many adults wish their parents had addressed it earlier; it is rarely too late |
| Return to school/work | 1 week (with headband) | 1 week (with headband) |
| Headband worn | Day and night for 2 weeks, then nights for 4 more weeks | Same protocol |
| Final result | 3 months | 3 months |
The Procedure
Otoplasty typically takes around one to two hours. The incision is placed in the natural crease behind the ear, leaving no visible scar in front. The cartilage is reshaped to create a properly defined antihelical fold and, where needed, the conchal bowl is set back closer to the head. Internal sutures hold the new shape permanently.
Recovery and Practical Considerations
The headband is the central feature of recovery. It must be worn continuously for the first two weeks — including overnight — to protect the new ear position during initial healing. It is then worn at night only for a further month. Sports, swimming and contact activities are restricted for six weeks.
The Psychological Result
Patients consistently describe the change as more profound than they expected. Hair worn differently. Hats worn for the first time. Photographs taken without thought. Children, in particular, often experience a noticeable shift in confidence within weeks of returning to school.
Dr. Ferrando’s Approach
Dr. Giovanni Ferrando, FRCS (Plast), has been performing otoplasty on adults and children for over three decades. He assesses each patient individually — symmetry, cartilage character and the natural anatomy of the head all influence technique. His approach is to produce a result that looks naturally proportionate, never over-corrected.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age can children have otoplasty?
From around age six, when the ears are largely grown. Many families choose to act before the start of secondary school.
Is the result permanent?
Yes. Once healed, the new position is held by internal cartilage sutures and is permanent.
Is there a visible scar?
The scar sits in the natural crease behind the ear and is not visible in normal viewing.
Does it hurt?
Discomfort is typically mild. The headband is the more notable inconvenience during the first fortnight.
References & Further Reading
Related articles from this clinic
- Gynaecomastia Surgery for Men
- Return-to-Work Timeline by Procedure
- Your First Cosmetic Surgery Consultation
External authoritative resources
Considering otoplasty for yourself or your child? Book a consultation with Dr. Giovanni Ferrando in London. View results in the otoplasty gallery or learn more about our surgical services.
