Ear correction (Otoplasty)

Ear correction by modeling can change its size, shape and position. Protruding ears mostly appear because of too little rotation of ear cartilage. Operatively and technically we do a plastic surgery of the ear with an additional intervention. Sometimes even parts of cartilage can be too big. During plastic surgery of the ear we will, during one simple procedure, remodel the cartilage from the rear part of the earlobe and place it in its correct position.

Prof. Mislav Gjuric, M.D., Ph.D.

German and Croatian board certified otorhinolaryngologist specialising in cosmetic surgery with emphasis on facial, head & neck plastic and reconstructive surgery; founder, director and head of practice at Sinteza Clinic in Zagreb
Professor of Otorhinolaryngology at the FA-University of Erlangen, Germany; former Professor and Vice-Chairman of the Department of Otorhinolaryngology at the J.W. Goethe University of Frankfurt, Germany
Professor and Chairman of the Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery at the University of Zagreb, Croatia; active member of numerous medical associations around the world

How is ear correction done?

Ear cartilage is permanently remodeled with a special technique of incisions and sutures. In that way we can correct protruding ears, reduce too big ears and correct lobulas. Ear conchcartilage will be released by one incision behind the ear and will be remodeled. During this procedure ear cartilage can even be trimmed and reduced in size. The procedure is generally done on the back side of the ear, leaving no visible scars. It is common to do ear surgery after five years of age, but it can also be done later, at any age. Earlobe correction is done during a quick procedure. Earlobes get reduced, remodeled or ear holes are sutured.

What happens before an ear correction?

Prior to the procedure, one must consult the doctor about the surgical procedure, and about other suitable interventions that can be combined with ear surgery. Surgery of children is mostly done under regional anesthesia, and of adults, smaller procedures are generally done on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia. The procedure lasts for 1-2 hours.

What happens after an ear correction?

After the surgery we put a headband and bandage for ears which you must wear for 2 weeks after the surgery. After that period of time you can go out again! Sensitivity to touch as well as disorders while scar formation are possible. Harder pain can occur because of too hard or too loose bandage, as well as excessive sensitivity to sutures.

What are the results of an ear correction?

After ear correction the cosmetic result is mostly very good. Concerning the appearance, position and symmetry of ear conches, as with most plastic surgeries, there is no warranty that the result will be as expected. Temporary results can be expected after 3 months, and the end result is visible after approximately 6 months. New deformation is visible, like scaring or pinned ear conches, but it can be successfully corrected through another intervention.