In the ear, various deformities can occur congenitally or later in life. The most common is prominent ear, where the angle between the ear and the skull is greater than normal, causing the ear to protrude forward. In addition to this angle issue, the absence of folds inside the ear can also contribute to this appearance.
The goal of surgery is to normalize the angle between the ear and the head, and to recreate these folds. There are various techniques for prominent ear surgery, with each doctor applying their own method such as using sutures or performing open ear surgery.”
In a hospital setting, the surgery is performed under general anesthesia for children and local anesthesia for adults. The operation typically lasts about 1-1.5 hours. An incision is made behind the ear. Permanent stitches are used to correct the necessary folds and angles of the ear cartilage.
After prominent ear surgery, the patient can return home the same day. The ear needs to be bandaged for 3 days. Swelling and bruising usually resolve within 2-3 weeks post-surgery. It takes about 2 months for the ear to assume its final shape. Since the incision is made behind the ear in prominent ear surgery, the scar is not noticeable.”
The experience of the cosmetic surgeon and the degree of ear deformity can influence the outcome of the surgery. Some techniques involve making a full incision behind the ear, while others use a thread-based approach without incisions for aesthetic purposes.
Most patients go home in the evening on the day of surgery without staying overnight in the hospital. Dressings are typically removed 2-4 days after surgery, allowing the patient to take showers. Some patients may need to wear a headband or tennis band after the operation.