Prominent Ear Surgery

Prominent Ear Surgery: The ears are an essential complement to facial aesthetics. In particular, the angle and position of the ears relative to the skull directly affect a person’s facial appearance. Prominent ear deformity refers to the condition where the ears protrude from the head at a wider angle than normal, and it can lead to both aesthetic and psychological issues in both childhood and adulthood. This problem can cause negative effects such as lack of self-confidence, avoidance of social environments, and decreased quality of life.

Prominent ear surgery, medically known as otoplasty, is an effective surgical intervention aimed at correcting these aesthetic and functional problems. ENT Specialist Prof. Dr. Ozan Seymen, who provides services in his own clinic in Istanbul, offers natural, proportional, and permanent solutions to his patients using modern techniques and individualized aesthetic approaches. In this article, we will comprehensively address what prominent ear deformity is, why it occurs, how the surgery is planned and performed, and what the recovery process entails.”

What Is Prominent Ear Deformity?

Prominent ear refers to the condition where the angle between the outer ear and the head is greater than normal. Normally, this angle is around 20–30 degrees. However, in prominent ear cases, this angle increases and the ears appear more visibly protruded.
Not only the increased angle, but also developmental differences in the cartilage structure of the ear can contribute to prominent ear deformity. Anatomical features such as an underdeveloped antihelical fold or an overly deep concha can also play a role.

This condition is congenital and is generally seen symmetrically in both ears. However, in some individuals, it may occur in only one ear or asymmetrically.

Although prominent ears do not pose a physical health issue, they can be aesthetically disturbing and may cause psychological trauma, especially during childhood, due to teasing.

What Causes Prominent Ear Deformity?

The main cause of prominent ears is congenital anatomical differences. A developmental variation occurs during the shaping of the ear cartilage in the womb.
Additionally, familial predisposition plays an important role. If one or both parents have prominent ears, the likelihood of the child having the same condition increases.

Prominent ears are not caused by trauma or acquired deformity; they are usually present from birth and can become more pronounced over time.

Prof. Dr. Ozan Seymen performs a detailed analysis of the anatomical and genetic background of each case to develop the most appropriate treatment plan for every patient.

What Is Prominent Ear Surgery (Otoplasty)?

Prominent ear surgery is a surgical procedure performed to reposition the ears closer to the head and provide a more natural aesthetic appearance. The aim is not only to bring the ears backward but also to recreate the natural anatomical folds of the ear cartilage and achieve a symmetrical look.
Otoplasty can be performed on both children and adults. It is generally recommended for children around the ages of 5–6, as ear development is largely complete by this age. Surgery before school age can help boost a child’s self-confidence in social settings.

Prof. Dr. Ozan Seymen prioritizes naturalness and harmony with facial aesthetics to deliver personalized results in prominent ear surgeries.

Preoperative Planning Process

The cornerstone of a successful prominent ear surgery is accurate planning. During the preoperative evaluation, the angle between the ear and head, cartilage elasticity, symmetry, and aesthetic expectations are analyzed in detail.
In pediatric patients, it’s crucial to confirm that ear development is complete. Psychological timing is also important, as surgeries performed during the child’s self-awareness period can support confidence development.

For adult patients, facial harmony, skull proportions, and patient expectations are assessed together.

Prof. Dr. Ozan Seymen communicates one-on-one with each patient, clearly explaining the expected outcomes before surgery and managing the process transparently.

How Is Prominent Ear Surgery Performed?

Prominent ear surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia. However, general anesthesia may be used for younger children or based on the patient’s preference. The surgery typically lasts between 1 to 2 hours, depending on the extent of the intervention.
During surgery, a fine incision is made along the natural folds behind the ear to access the cartilage. The cartilage is reshaped and, if necessary, excess cartilage is removed. The ear is then repositioned closer to the head and secured with special suturing techniques.

Finally, the incision behind the ear is carefully closed. Since the scar is hidden behind the ear, it remains aesthetically unnoticeable after healing.

Prof. Dr. Ozan Seymen selects the most appropriate surgical technique based on the patient’s ear structure and facial proportions, aiming to create natural, symmetrical, and aesthetically harmonious ears.

Recovery After Prominent Ear Surgery

The recovery period after prominent ear surgery is usually quick and comfortable. A special bandage or headband is used to protect the ears and support their new position. This bandage is worn continuously for the first few days and then mainly at night while sleeping.
Mild pain, swelling, and bruising may occur in the first few days but usually subside within a week. These symptoms can be managed easily with prescribed painkillers.

Sutures are typically removed within 7 to 10 days. During this time, patients should avoid trauma to the ears, strenuous exercise, or movements that could stress the ear area.

Adhering to hygiene instructions and following postoperative care guidelines reduces the risk of complications and supports long-lasting results.

Prof. Dr. Ozan Seymen closely monitors his patients during the recovery process and provides one-on-one support at every stage.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, there are certain risks associated with prominent ear surgery. However, with an experienced surgeon and proper technique, these risks are minimal.
Postoperative infection, bleeding, suture dehiscence, or asymmetry are rare complications. Some patients may develop excessive scarring such as keloids or hypertrophic scars, which may require additional treatment.

In rare cases, cartilage may heal weakly, leading to recurrence of protrusion, and revision surgery might be necessary.

Prof. Dr. Ozan Seymen thoroughly informs patients about potential risks prior to surgery and carefully manages the postoperative process to minimize complications.

Are the Results Permanent?

Prominent ear surgery provides permanent results. The reshaped cartilage and stabilizing sutures keep the ears in their new position long-term.
Once healing is complete, the ears remain in their corrected position and maintain a natural appearance for many years. However, trauma or failure to follow aftercare instructions may rarely lead to shape changes.

When performed using the correct technique and proper patient management, otoplasty offers lifelong aesthetic and functional satisfaction.

Prof. Dr. Ozan Seymen aims for long-term success in both appearance and function in every patient.

Surgery Cost

The cost of prominent ear surgery varies depending on hospital conditions, the surgeon’s experience, the extent of intervention, and the techniques used.
In Istanbul, Prof. Dr. Ozan Seymen applies a transparent and fair pricing policy based on a personalized evaluation.

When evaluating the cost, it’s important to consider not only the surgical fee but also the surgical experience offered, postoperative follow-up care, and the lasting impact of aesthetic results.

Prof. Dr. Ozan Seymen aims to enhance his patients’ quality of life both aesthetically and psychologically by providing high-quality healthcare under accessible conditions.

At what age can otoplasty be performed?

It can be safely performed from around ages 5–6, when ear development is mostly complete. It can also be done at any age during adulthood.

Will there be visible scarring?

Scars are hidden behind the ear and are not visible. Over time, they become even less noticeable.

Is the surgery painful?

Mild pain or discomfort may be experienced after surgery, but it can be easily managed with painkillers. Severe pain is not expected.

Are the results permanent?

Yes, when performed correctly, otoplasty provides permanent results. The ears remain in their new position.

How long is the recovery period?

Patients usually return to daily activities within a few days. Full healing and final aesthetic results may take a few weeks.
Prominent ear surgery is an effective procedure that improves both aesthetic appearance and psychological well-being. When performed at the right time, using the right technique, and by an experienced surgeon, this surgery provides a more balanced, confident, and aesthetically pleasing appearance.

ENT Specialist Prof. Dr. Ozan Seymen, who operates in his own clinic in Istanbul, delivers long-lasting, natural, and facially harmonious results using modern surgical techniques and personalized aesthetic approaches.

If you wish to improve your ear aesthetics and take a step toward a more confident life, you can contact Prof. Dr. Ozan Seymen for a detailed evaluation and confidently achieve your aesthetic goals.