What is Otoplasty?

Otoplasty is a common ear surgery that involves reshaping, repositioning, or reducing the size of the ears to make them look balanced and proportional. Usually, individuals who are concerned about their ears being too protruded or mismatched in size are candidates for an otoplasty procedure. This procedure will help improve various aesthetic concerns about ears sticking out, asymmetry, or larger ears than average, thus giving a natural, harmonious look to the ears. It is indicated in patients of any age, even children, after stabilization of the ear growth, usually around five years of age.

Ideal Candidates for Otoplasty

The ideal candidates for otoplasty are people in generally good health who are concerned about the appearance of their ears. This procedure helps prominent ears, different-shaped ears, or defects from a previous trauma to the ear. Both children and adults are good candidates for the surgery. Children are the best candidates if they are emotionally prepared and can understand and follow their post-surgical otoplasty care, while adults are best if they have realistic expectations. A consultation by Dr. Tolga Çakıl helps him evaluate the desires of each patient along with his or her facial structure and assures that the otoplasty is the appropriate solution.

Surgical Procedure of Otoplasty

Otoplasty can be done under local or general anesthesia depending on the preference of the patient and on the surgical plan. Dr. Tolga Çakıl performs the surgery by making minor incisions behind the ear to provide access to the cartilaginous part. This is done through folding, reshaping, or removing the extra cartilage, as required by the type of deformity against which a correction is to be performed in order to achieve the wanted contour of the ear. The new position and shape are secured with sutures that hold the ears closer to the head for a natural, aesthetically pleasing result. Because the incisions are made behind the ears, they remain mostly concealed in the folds of the ear, and thus any scarring is minimal.

Otoplasty Recovery Process

The recovery process after otoplasty is usually uncomplicated; most of the patients experience slight discomfort and swelling in the days that follow the surgery. Dr. Çakıl provides post-operative instructions in detail, one of which is wearing a protective headband to support the ears while recovering from the surgery. Most patients can return to daily life, such as going back to school or work, within a week. However, vigorous activities should be avoided for several weeks to ensure the best outcome. It will take a few months for complete healing, after which the ear will look natural and well-balanced.

Longevity & Benefits of Otoplasty

Otoplasty has long-lasting results, and for most patients, it dramatically improves the appearance of the ears by offering permanent changes in the shape and position of the ears. Therefore, Dr. Çakıl reshapes and repositions the cartilage in a way that provides a natural and proportional look of the ears in relationship to the other features of the face. After surgery, patients often feel more confident and more pleased with their appearance. Otoplasty balances facial symmetry and enables individuals to feel comfortable for many years to come.