Ear Surgery (Otoplasty) — what you should know in 2026
How otoplasty reshapes prominent or misshapen ears, why it suits children and adults alike, and how to choose a surgeon.
Written by our medical board, reviewed quarterlyUpdated 21 January 19707 min read
Who otoplasty is for
Otoplasty reshapes the ears, most often to set back ears that stick out prominently, but also to correct misshapen cartilage, large ears, or asymmetry between the two sides. It is one of the few cosmetic procedures commonly performed in childhood, since prominent ears can be a source of teasing, though many adults also choose it at any age.
The goal is natural-looking ears in better proportion and position relative to the head, not perfectly identical ones — real ears are never quite symmetrical. Because the change is permanent and the ears are a stable structure once mature, results tend to be durable and satisfying when expectations are realistic.
How the surgery works
Through an incision usually hidden behind the ear, the surgeon reshapes or removes a small amount of cartilage and uses permanent sutures to create or strengthen the natural fold of the ear and to set it closer to the head. The exact technique depends on what makes the ear prominent — a missing fold, an overly deep bowl of cartilage, or both.
In children the cartilage is softer and easier to mould; in adults it is firmer, but the principles are the same. The operation can usually be done under local anaesthetic with sedation in adults, while children typically have a general anaesthetic. It is one of the more straightforward facial procedures in experienced hands.
Cost and inclusions
Otoplasty is among the more affordable cosmetic procedures. In medical-tourism hubs it commonly falls in a broad band of roughly 1,800 to 3,500 euros. Packages typically include the surgeon, anaesthesia, the facility, a supportive head dressing or band, and follow-up.
Confirm whether one or both ears are included (most cases treat both for symmetry), the anaesthesia type, and whether the supportive headband and follow-up are covered. Because it is a relatively contained procedure, packages are usually simpler than for larger surgeries.
Choosing a surgeon
A natural ear fold and a balanced position relative to the head are the marks of good otoplasty — over-correction that pins the ears too flat looks as unnatural as the original prominence. Review before-and-after photos from front and side, and ask how the surgeon ensures symmetry and avoids over-correction.
Look for board certification in plastic or facial plastic surgery and JCI, TEMOS, or ISO facility accreditation. If the patient is a child, confirm experience with paediatric cases and appropriate anaesthesia and aftercare for younger patients.
Recovery and timeline
A supportive dressing covers the ears for the first several days, after which many surgeons advise wearing a soft headband, especially at night, for a few weeks to protect the new position while healing. Most people return to desk work or school within about a week, avoiding contact and anything that bends the ears.
Swelling and numbness settle over a few weeks, and the final shape is stable once healing completes. The behind-the-ear scar is hidden and fades well. Plan to stay abroad until cleared, usually only a few days to a week, given the relatively contained nature of the surgery.
Risks and considerations
Specific risks include asymmetry between the ears, a recurrence of some prominence if sutures loosen, sensitivity or numbness of the ear, and rarely problems with the cartilage healing or a stitch becoming noticeable. As with any surgery there is a small risk of infection, which around cartilage must be treated promptly.
Results are generally permanent once the cartilage has set in its new position. Ask about the clinic's approach if any asymmetry or recurrence appears, and follow the headband and protection advice closely, since the early healing position is what locks in the long-term result.
Frequently asked
What age can otoplasty be done?
It is often done in childhood once the ears are near adult size (around school age), but adults of any age are equally good candidates.
Will the ears be perfectly symmetrical?
Surgeons aim for natural balance, not identical ears — real ears never match exactly. Good otoplasty looks proportionate rather than artificially even.
Is the scar visible?
The incision is usually hidden behind the ear and fades well, so it is not visible in normal view.
How long is the recovery?
Most return to work or school within about a week, with a protective headband worn for a few weeks, especially at night, to guard the result.
Can the ears stick out again?
Uncommonly, some prominence can return if sutures loosen during healing, which is why following the protection advice matters.
Is it painful?
Discomfort is usually mild and short-lived, controlled with simple medication. The ears may feel tender and numb for a few weeks.
