Ear Correction (Ear Repositioning/Otoplasty)

What happens during otoplasty surgery?

Otoplasty can be performed using either a general anaesthetic or a local anaesthetic and takes between one to two hours to perform.

During the operation your surgeon makes an incision behind your ear. They correct,  reposition or sometimes remove a piece of the cartilage to reduce the angle and position the ears closer to your head. The incision is stitched closed and head bandages will be applied.

You will usually be able to go home on the day of the surgery. Any pain can be controlled by pain relief medication.

Going home after otoplasty

To ensure your ears stay in their new position your bandages will need to stay in place day and night for one week following surgery. When the dressings come off your ears may look red or bruised for awhile.

Your stitches will be removed in 10 - 14 days. You may be asked to wear smaller bandages at night for several weeks.

You will need to rest and avoid strenuous activities for about four weeks as the swelling and bruising decreases. However the new shape will be clearly visible. You should allow three to four months before seeing the final result.

What are the complications of otoplasty?

Complications following otoplasty are infrequent and usually minor. However every surgical procedure has a risk of complications. Be sure and discuss any concerns you might have about these risks with your surgeon.

General complications of any operation:

• Pain
• Bleeding
• Infection in a surgical wound
• Blood clots

Specific complications of an otoplasty:

• Bleeding
• Bruising
• Infection
• Scarring
• Repositioning (ear returns to pre-surgery position, very rare)

Why not print this treatment page so you can discuss any concerns you have with your surgeon?

Feel free to call us about an otoplasty on 0845 603 4346 or simply fill in a form to your right and we can call you back.