Otoplasty Surgery Explained: Who It's For & What To Expect

Whether it’s to address prominent ears, correct asymmetry, or simply feel more comfortable with the appearance of your own ears, this guide is here to walk you through the entire surgical procedure, from understanding what’s involved to what recovery might look like.

Let’s dive into everything you need to know about ear correction surgery.

What Is Otoplasty Surgery?

Otoplasty surgery, also known as ear pinning, prominent ear correction, or cosmetic ear surgery, is an ear correction procedure designed to reshape the ear cartilage.

It’s most commonly used to treat prominent ears, improve the appearance of the natural folds, or address aesthetic concerns such as large or stretched earlobes.

This type of surgery can be performed on one or both ears, depending on the goal, whether it’s correcting symmetry problems, adjusting the shape, or repositioning the entire ear for a more balanced appearance.

Why Many People Choose Cosmetic Ear Surgery

For countless individuals, the decision to undergo otoplasty ear surgery is about feeling more at ease in their own skin.

The ears are a subtle but powerful part of your appearance, and when they draw unwanted attention, it can affect how you feel day to day.

You might be considering otoplasty surgery if you:

Feel self-conscious about prominent or large ears
Wish to improve ear symmetry for a more balanced look
Have experienced trauma to the ear cartilage
Require reconstruction following an injury or medical treatment
Want to correct stretched earlobes or repair a torn lobe

Each person’s reason is deeply personal, yet many share a common goal: to restore harmony between how they feel on the inside and how they present themselves to the world.

Choosing cosmetic ear surgery is often part of a bigger journey, one that supports self-assurance, confidence, and a sense of control over your appearance.

If you’ve ever found yourself adjusting your hairstyle to cover your ears or avoiding certain situations because of how your ears appear, know that you’re not alone, and tailored options are available.

When Is Ear Correction Surgery Typically Performed?

Otoplasty surgery is commonly performed once the ears have reached full development, usually around the age of five or six.

For some families, this early timing can help children avoid teasing or self-consciousness during formative years. When done thoughtfully and at the right stage, it can support a child’s comfort and confidence as they grow.

That said, many adults also choose to have ear correction surgery, often after years of quietly considering it. Whether you’ve thought about it occasionally or it’s something you’ve always planned to explore “one day,” it’s never too late to take the first step.

In fact, many people say they wish they’d looked into it sooner.

The key is whether your ear cartilage is fully developed (for younger clients) and whether you’re ready to explore a change that could make you feel more aligned with your reflection.

If the idea has been sitting with you for a while, this could be the gentle nudge you’ve been waiting for.

What Happens During Otoplasty Surgery?

Understanding what to expect can make all the difference when you’re considering a procedure like otoplasty surgery. Feeling prepared often leads to greater comfort, clarity, and confidence.

Here’s a simple, step-by-step outline of what typically happens during the procedure:

1. Anaesthesia For Comfort And Calm

To ensure you’re comfortable throughout, your surgeon will recommend a suitable type of anaesthesia.

This choice is carefully tailored based on your age, medical history, and what feels right for you. The goal is always to make the experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.

2. A Discreet Incision Behind The Ear

Once you’re relaxed, a small incision site is made, usually hidden in the natural crease behind your ear.

This approach keeps visibility to a minimum, allowing for an outcome that blends naturally with your own ears.

3. Gentle Cartilage Reshaping

Next, your surgeon works carefully with the ear cartilage, either reshaping or repositioning it to achieve the desired look. If needed, a small amount of cartilage may be removed, or surgical sutures may be placed to create natural-looking folds.

Every adjustment is done with precision to support a balanced and symmetrical result.

4. Closing The Incision Thoughtfully

The skin overlying the cartilage is then gently closed. In most cases, the result is a faint scar that becomes barely noticeable over time.

Your surgeon will provide clear instructions on how to care for the area to support healthy healing.

The entire procedure usually takes just a few hours and is commonly completed as day surgery, meaning you’ll be able to return home the same day with a care plan in hand and the next steps clearly laid out.

Knowing the journey in advance can ease nerves, clarify expectations, and help you feel more in control, which is exactly what we want for you at every stage of your decision-making process.

What To Expect After Surgery

Knowing what to expect after otoplasty surgery can help you feel more confident and in control throughout your healing process.

While every recovery journey is unique, most people share a similar path towards healing and seeing their new look come to life.

Immediate Recovery: The First 24–48 Hours

Most people return home on the same day of their procedure, wearing a comfortable head bandage designed to support their ears and protect the surgical site. This bandage helps your ears maintain their new position and shields them while the initial healing begins.

In the first day or two, it’s common to notice:

Mild swelling
Light redness or warmth around the area
A feeling of tenderness
Temporary numbness or slight stiffness

These are part of the body’s natural healing response and typically settle on their own.

Pain, Nausea, And Anaesthesia Effects

Some people experience mild side effects such as:

A sore throat caused by the breathing tube used during general anaesthesia
Short-term surgery nausea
A dull ache or general anaesthesia pain around the ears

These symptoms are temporary and often resolve within a day or two.

If you notice lingering discomfort, further surgery nausea, or unusual sensations, your surgical team is always there to offer guidance and reassurance. You won’t be navigating this alone.

Long-Term Recovery: What Happens Next

Within a few days, you’ll likely swap your bulky bandage for a lighter headband that can be worn at night. This next stage of healing is about protecting your results and supporting the reshaped ear cartilage.

Here’s how to make recovery smoother:

Avoid putting pressure on your ears, especially while sleeping
Keep the incision site clean and dry
Skip contact sports or high-impact activities that could bump or strain the ears
Wear your headband as advised, particularly during sleep

When Will I See the Final Results?

Most people are ready to return to school or work within a few weeks. While subtle swelling may linger, healed incisions and the new ear shape usually settle fully by about six weeks.

That said, every person heals at their own pace. Your body may need more or less time depending on factors like skin sensitivity, age, and overall health. Staying consistent with your post-operative care can help ensure a smooth and satisfying recovery.

This stage of the journey is the moment many people begin noticing how their new natural ears are blending seamlessly into their look.

It’s not about dramatic changes; it’s about subtle improvements that help you feel more comfortable in your skin.

Potential Risks And Considerations

Every surgical procedure, no matter how carefully planned or commonly performed, carries some level of risk. With otoplasty ear surgery, complications might happen, but being informed and prepared is an important part of the decision-making process.

Here are a few possible risks to be aware of:

Infection at the surgical site
Minor bleeding or fluid accumulation during healing
A large blood clot forming under the skin (rare)
Allergic reaction to anaesthesia or surgical materials
Slight balance-related issues (unusual, but possible)
Healed incisions not settling evenly or forming thickened scars

Most of these can be effectively managed with prompt care, and your surgical team will walk you through how to reduce these risks before and after surgery.

This includes helping you manage lifestyle factors, such as post-operative care, and reviewing your medical history and surgery medications to support a smoother recovery.

Being aware of what might happen, not to cause worry but to help you feel informed, gives you the power to take an active role in your care.

By working closely with your chosen provider and following personalised aftercare instructions, many of these risks can be significantly minimised.

If something doesn’t feel right at any stage, you’ll have a professional team ready to support you every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I have scars?

Most people have a faint scar hidden behind the ear. In some cases, hypertrophic scars or thickened scars may form. Your surgeon will monitor the healing process to address any specific concerns.

Are the results permanent?

Yes, the results are generally long-lasting. However, in rare cases, cartilage re-protrusion can occur, requiring further surgery.

What should I do if I smoke?

Smoking can affect healing and increase risks, such as slow healing or infection. You may be advised to quit smoking before and after surgery.

Conclusion

Making the decision to undergo otoplasty surgery is a personal one, and it’s completely normal to have questions along the way.

Whether you’re seeking to address aesthetic concerns, improve symmetry, or correct ear cartilage shape from childhood, the goal is always to help you feel more comfortable and confident.

By understanding the process, preparing well, and following post-operative care, you’re setting yourself up for the best possible outcomes.

And while every journey is unique, you’ll join many patients who find the experience both empowering and uplifting.

If you’ve been thinking about otoplasty surgery in Sydney, now might be the right time to explore it further.

Our friendly cosmetic doctor is here to answer your questions, talk through your options, and help you feel fully informed, with no pressure, just clarity.

Reach out today to Dr Alan Evans at 02 9526 8000 and discover what’s possible, one conversation at a time.

Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should always seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

Sources

Felman, A. (2020, August 11). Should I Have an Otoplasty? Medical News Today. Retrieved June 23, 2025, from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/246767

Otoplasty. (2025, March 10). Cleveland Clinic. Retrieved June 23, 2025, from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/procedures/otoplasty

Seladi-Schulman, J. (2020, February 26). All About Otoplasty (Cosmetic Ear Surgery). Healthline. Retrieved June 23, 2025, from https://www.healthline.com/health/otoplasty

Otoplasty Surgery Explained: Who It’s For & What To Expect