• Overview

Or call us on

01865 307777
Overall rating Good

Ear Repositioning (Otoplasty) is a surgical procedure that is usually performed to move the ears into a more natural looking position closer to the head.

Ear Repositioning (Otoplasty) is a surgical procedure that is usually performed to move the ears into a more natural looking position closer to the head.

What does the surgery involve?

During the operation, the surgeon will adjust the shape of the ear cartilage to allow it to fold back into a more usual position. Surgery is carried out through an incision (cut) hidden in the fold on the back of the ear. Once corrected, this incision is stitched together and a rather bulky bandage is put around your head.

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

Providing all is well, you can expect to go home the same day.

What are the risks and side effects of surgery?

Complications are infrequent and usually minor. However, no surgery is without risk.

Blood can collect beneath the skin of the ear. This may need to be drained. 
Infection in the ears can occur although it is rare. Scars can become thick and red which may need further treatment.

Unpredictable results are possible (uncommon). Cartilage is a living tissue and it may alter its shape over time. Very occasionally, a second operation may be required to refine your results. It is also possible that the ear can return to its pre-surgery position. This, however, is rare.

When the dressings come off, your ears may look red or bruised for a while. However, the new shape should be fairly clear to see.


Oxford, The Manor Hospital

Beech Road, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7RP

01865 307777

Please note, there is only limited parking available at our hospital. Our car park is now managed by EURO CARPARKS. Patients and visitors are required to input their car registration in to the panels located in the main reception areas to avoid a fine. Parking T&Cs are detailed on signs in the car park.

Reception and all general enquiries 01865 307777
New treatment enquiries 01865 307750
Diagnostic Imaging (appointments and enquiries) 01865 307 437
Nurses' Station (for inpatients only) 01865 307 579
Physiotherapy (appointments only) 0333 305 7905
Physiotherapy (enquiries) 01865 307 533
Accounts 01865 987 653

Ways to pay

Paying for yourself

There are no hidden costs in our treatment prices. The price you see is the price you pay.

Find out more

Personal medical loan

Spread the cost of your treatment with a 6, 10 or 12 month 0% personal medical loan.

Find out more

Medical insurance

We work with you and your insurance provider to get you the treatment you need quickly

Find out more