Otoplasty (surgery for protruding ears)

Otoplasty is a cosmetic surgery procedure that corrects “protruding ears”. This intervention leaves a very discreet scar behind the ear. Otoplasty can be performed on adults as well as children. In some cases, the cost of otoplasty may be covered by health insurance.

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Otoplasty (Protruding Ears) in Paris | Technique and Rates | Dr. B. Sarfati

Overview of otoplasty (surgery for protruding ears)

Otoplasty is a surgical procedure aimed at correcting protruding ears. Prominent ears can often cause significant self-consciousness in patients. This simple cosmetic surgery permanently pins back the ears.

Otoplasty can be considered for children from the age of 7. Protruding ears are defined as ears where one or both earlobes extend more than 30 degrees from the head, or where the distance between the head and the helix is between 20 and 22 mm.

There are three main types of protruding ears:

  • When the folding of the antihelix (under the helix, on the top of the ear) is underdeveloped or insufficient, causing the ear to unfold excessively.
  • When the concha is prominent.
  • When the retroauricular angle is pronounced, leading to visible protrusion.

These conditions often have a genetic predisposition and should be addressed early as they can cause significant psychological issues and social complexes. Unlike other parts of the body, ears are more challenging to conceal.

Enlarged ear lobe: how to reduce it

Split ear lobe: how to correct it

Otoplasty techniques (surgery for protruding ears)

The procedure is performed in the operating room. The incision is made behind the ear, ensuring a very discreet scar. Natural ear contours are recreated using sutures. A final stitch helps pin back the ears and correct the deformity.

Otoplasty procedure (surgery for protruding ears)

Otoplasty can be performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on the patient’s preference. Initially, a protective dressing is applied post-surgery and removed the day after the procedure. The sutures used are absorbable, eliminating the need for stitch removal.

The operation typically lasts up to one hour. To pin back the ears, the surgeon begins with an incision along the retro-auricular groove. Next, they expose and reshape the cartilage. Occasionally, the surgeon may reduce the ear size. Adjustment is made to the retro-auricular angle and correction of ear protrusion. The result is ears that are aesthetically pleasing, alleviating any previous concerns about protrusion.

Recovery after otoplasty (surgery for protruding ears)

Pain is typically moderate and can be managed effectively with common pain relievers. A headband should be worn around the ears continuously for one week, followed by nighttime use only for an additional month.

Patients should plan for a recovery period of 4 to 7 days after surgery, during which activities should be limited. Sports should be avoided for one month following the procedure.

Results

Otoplasty (surgery for protruding ears)

Case of surgery for protruding ears under general anesthesia, as an outpatient with same-day discharge. Result at 1 month post-surgery (front view)

Otoplasty (surgery for protruding ears)

Case of surgery for protruding ears under general anesthesia, as an outpatient with same-day discharge. Result at 1 month post-surgery (three-quarter view)

Otoplasty (surgery for protruding ears)

Case of surgery for protruding ears under general anesthesia, as an outpatient with same-day discharge. Result at 1 month post-surgery (profile view)

Otoplasty (surgery for protruding ears)

Case of surgery for protruding ears under general anesthesia, as an outpatient with same-day discharge. Result at 2 months post-surgery (front view)

Otoplasty (surgery for protruding ears)

Case of surgery for protruding ears under general anesthesia, as an outpatient with same-day discharge. Result at 2 months post-surgery (profile view)

Otoplasty (surgery for protruding ears)

Case of surgery for protruding ears under general anesthesia, as an outpatient with same-day discharge. Result at 2 months post-surgery.

Otoplasty: what is the cost?

The cost of otoplasty depends on whether it is covered by health insurance. This procedure is reimbursed if there is significant social discomfort. During your consultation with a specialized cosmetic surgeon in otoplasty, it will be determined whether the procedure can be covered by health insurance. A personalized quote will be provided accordingly.

Types of surgery

dr Benjamin Sarfati

DOCTOR BENJAMIN SARFATI

Specialist in breast surgery and intimate surgery

Practitioner Specialist at Cancer Control Centers, Gustave Roussy.
Member of the Henri Hartmann Breast Institute.
Founder of the Women's Surgery Center.
Founder of the international congress "Paris Breast Rendez-Vous."
Member of the scientific committee of patient associations (Europa Donna, BRCA France).