Ear Surgery (Otoplasty)

Otoplasty, commonly referred to as simply ear surgery, can be used to move the ears into a more natural looking position closer to the head if the patient feels as though they stick out or protrude.

In order to move the position of the ears, a cosmetic surgeon will make an incision behind the ear. They will then remove cartilage and skin to create the desired look. To complete the treatment, the surgeon will pin back the cartilage with permanent  stitches, ensuring the results are lifelong.

In most cases the surgery is quick to complete, taking between one and two hours to perform under local anaesthetic or general anaesthetic. In most cases you will be able to go home on the same day and will be fully recovered within a couple of weeks.

Ear surgery is commonly performed and in most cases you will only need a couple of days to recover from the procedure. Some discomfort, soreness and tenderness is to be expected after the procedure, along with mild swelling and bruising that should subsidise over the course of the following week. Some patients also report a tight sensation around their ears following treatment - this is normal and is part of the healing process.

An otoplasty procedure delivers permanent results in the appearance of the ears and is one of the few cosmetic operations that is performed on children.

The cost of otoplasty will depend on the type of operation required but will generally be in the £1,000 - £3,000 range.