Quick Answer: Otoplasty (prominent ear surgery) is a safe surgical procedure designed to correct ear protrusion, re-shape the antihelical fold, and reduce deep conchal cartilage excess. Performed via a hidden vertical incision behind the ear (retroauricular crease), it anchors the cartilage closer to the scalp without visible external scarring. Ideal for adults and children aged 5 and older (when ear cartilage reaches 85-90% maturity), the 1 to 2-hour outpatient procedure provides permanent, natural aesthetic proportions.

Prominent ear surgery, clinically known as otoplasty, is a refined surgical procedure performed on the auricular cartilage (ear pinna) to correct structural irregularities, reduce an overextended head-to-ear angle, and establish a completely natural, proportionate, and balanced appearance.

Individuals who experience psychological distress or aesthetic dissatisfaction due to the protrusion or shape of their ears are excellent candidates for this procedure.

Anatomical issues such as generalized ear overgrowth, an underdeveloped or absent antihelical fold (the internal curvature of the ear), and cavum concha hypertrophy (an overdeveloped, deep ear-bowl cartilage) can be fully corrected utilizing advanced, personalized otoplasty methods.

At Prof. Dr. İsmail Küçüker Clinic, the ideal age for pediatric otoplasty is identified as 5 years old. At this stage, the auricular cartilage has reached roughly 85–90% of its adult size, and performing the surgery in the pre-school period effectively shields young children from potential peer teasing, supporting healthy psychological development.

Otoplasty is a highly precise architectural procedure routinely carried out in a fully equipped hospital environment. For young pediatric patients, general anesthesia is utilized to guarantee absolute comfort, while adult patients can easily undergo the procedure under deep sedation or local anesthesia. The typical surgical process spans 1 to 2 hours.

A discreet, vertical retroauricular incision is made entirely behind the ear, within the natural skin crease where the ear meets the head. Through this hidden entry point, the plastic surgeon accesses the auricular cartilage framework.

Utilizing specialized internal stitching techniques (such as permanent Mustardé mattress sutures), the cartilage is remolded to create a beautiful, smooth antihelical fold, and tucked structurally closer to the scalp. Depending on the patient's specific anatomy, a conservative conchal cartilage excision or precise shaving may be performed to permanently reduce excessive projection.

The healing process following an otoplasty is predictable and highly efficient due to the excellent blood supply of the periorbital and auricular regions. Key clinical phases of the post-operative period include: