Otoplasty: correcting protruding ears discreetly

What is otoplasty?

Otoplasty is a procedure for cosmetic surgery aimed at correcting anomalies in the position or shape of the ears. It is mainly carried out to treat Protruding ears, a source of complex in both children and adults. The objective is not only aesthetic: it is also about restoring facial harmony and providing real psychological comfort.

This surgery is discreet, personalized and allows to obtain a natural result, without stigma or visible signs of an operation.

Why sticking out ears can be a source of complexity

Protruding ears generally result from a defect in the cartilage folding or from an excessively open angle between the auricle and the skull. They do not cause any medical problems, but they can have a significant psychological impact. For children, they can be the source of mockery at school. In adults, they can generate social discomfort, a loss of self-confidence or aesthetic discomfort.

Otoplasty provides an effective and lasting response, with a harmonious and natural result, which respects the morphology of the face.

Modern otoplasty techniques

Current techniques favor precision and discretion. They make it possible to reposition the ears while avoiding the “stuck ears” effect that was once feared.

The most used methods are:

• Cartilage folding : the surgeon redraws the natural folds of the ear in order to give it a harmonious curvature.
• The back fixing : the ear is brought closer to the skull thanks to invisible internal sutures.
• Correction of excess cartilage : in case of hypertrophy, a targeted reduction is carried out to balance the shape.

These techniques are adapted according to the morphology and expectations of each patient, in order to preserve a natural appearance.

Procedure of the intervention

Otoplasty is a relatively light surgery, performed on an outpatient basis. It does not require prolonged hospitalization.

1. Preoperative consultation : a complete assessment makes it possible to define the surgical strategy and to reassure the patient about the expected results.
2. Intervention : the operation lasts approximately 1 hour to 1.5 hours. It is performed under local anesthesia with sedation or mild general anesthesia depending on the case.
3. Discreet incisions : they are placed behind the ear, making scars invisible.
4. Repositioning : the surgeon adjusts the shape and position of the cartilage to obtain natural symmetry.

At the end of the procedure, a modeling bandage is applied to protect the ears and maintain the new position.

Surgical follow-up and recovery

Recovery after otoplasty is rapid and generally well tolerated. Immediate consequences include slight swelling and sometimes bruising, which gradually subside over a few days.

Key post-operative recommendations include:

• Wearing a headband day and night for 1 to 2 weeks, then only at night for 1 month.
• Avoid contact sports and pressure on the ears for several weeks.
• Regular medical follow-up to check healing.

The final result appears after a few weeks, once the tissues have softened. The scars, hidden behind the ear, become almost invisible.

Results: natural and without stigma

Otoplasty makes it possible to permanently correct protruding ears, with a natural and harmonious result. The ears maintain their mobility and their normal appearance, without artificial appearance. The face regains better symmetry, and the patient gains self-confidence.

This surgery is particularly appreciated because it removes a complex that has often been present since childhood, without leaving any visible signs of the intervention.

At what age should an otoplasty be performed?

Otoplasty can be considered as early as childhood, generally from the age of 7, when ear development is almost complete. It can also be performed in adulthood, with no age limit, as long as the patient's health condition allows it.

For children, the intervention helps prevent teasing and builds self-esteem. For adults, it offers the possibility of correcting a complex that is sometimes old and of regaining lasting psychological comfort.

Why choose Clinique du Grand Paris?

Located in the 16th arrondissement, the Grand Paris Clinic is specialized in cosmetic surgery and aesthetic medicine. Our experienced surgeons practice otoplasty using modern techniques, focusing on precision and discretion.

We make it a point of honor to offer natural and personalized results, while respecting the overall harmony of the face. Our teams support each patient throughout their journey, from the first consultation to post-operative follow-up.

For more information, consult the complete list of our services and make an appointment directly via Doctolib.

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