{"id":13665,"date":"2026-02-27T13:42:52","date_gmt":"2026-02-27T12:42:52","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/blog\/what-is-otoplasty\/"},"modified":"2026-08-08T03:55:18","modified_gmt":"2026-08-08T02:55:18","slug":"what-is-otoplasty","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/en\/blog\/what-is-otoplasty\/","title":{"rendered":"What is otoplasty"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Nowadays, advances in surgical techniques benefit many patients who wish to improve some aspect of their appearance, whether for aesthetic or health reasons. Today we want to tell you about <strong><em>what otoplasty is<\/em><\/strong>; it is a straightforward procedure through which defects, malformations, or ear injuries in children and adults are corrected.<\/p>\n\n<!--more-->\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What is otoplasty?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Otoplasty is an aesthetic <strong>surgical procedure<\/strong> that corrects malformations, size, position, and <a href=\"https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/blog\/oreja-de-coliflor\/\">ear injuries<\/a>. The main goal is to improve facial harmony, enhancing self-esteem and confidence.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Most common problems it corrects<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The most common problems corrected with this procedure are the following:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Protruding ears, a condition in which the ears stick out from the face. Surgery repositions them.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cartilage asymmetry; differences between ears are corrected, one larger or higher than the other.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Excessively large ears <strong>(macrotia)<\/strong>, reduces the auricle, reshapes the ear.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Deformed lobes, very large or torn, they are closed and reconstructed.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Traumatic injuries from accidents, tears from piercing, cauliflower ear.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Congenital malformations, pointed ears <strong>(Stahl&#8217;s ear);<\/strong> the cartilage is folded and sutured.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Partial <strong>(microtia)<\/strong> or complete <strong>(anotia)<\/strong> ear absence<strong>;<\/strong> reconstructed through implants or the patient&#8217;s own cartilage.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What otoplasty does NOT do<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This aesthetic surgery does not affect the patient&#8217;s hearing, nor does it resolve any inner ear condition.<\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">When is it recommended and who is a good candidate?<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Good candidates are patients who present any of the conditions mentioned above. In the case of children, the appropriate age and formation of the <strong>auricle<\/strong> should be reviewed.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Recommended age (children and adults) and why<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Surgery is ideal for both children and adults who wish to improve their physical appearance.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The <a href=\"https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/blog\/a-que-edad-se-puede-hacer-la-otoplastia\/\">ideal age for otoplasty<\/a> is between 6 and 10 years. By then, the cartilage has fully formed. Adults can have the procedure at any age.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Surgery will provide greater confidence, boosting self-esteem and self-assurance in both children and adults. In the case of children, it helps prevent bullying or ridicule that may occur at school.<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"640\" height=\"427\" src=\"https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/otoplastia-ninos.jpg\" alt=\"otoplasty children otoplasty children\" class=\"wp-image-11464\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/otoplastia-ninos.jpg 640w, https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/otoplastia-ninos-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/otoplastia-ninos-350x234.jpg 350w, https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/otoplastia-ninos-370x247.jpg 370w, https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/otoplastia-ninos-255x170.jpg 255w, https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/otoplastia-ninos-285x190.jpg 285w, https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/otoplastia-ninos-600x400.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Aesthetic vs. Reconstructive reasons<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This surgery is performed to correct aesthetic problems such as oversized ears, asymmetries, large lobes, among others, but also for reconstructive purposes, auricle malformations, partial or complete ear absence through implants. Aesthetic reasons are more common.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Realistic goals<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As a patient, you should be clear that perfect aesthetics in the human body does not exist. You can achieve excellent results with well-executed aesthetic procedures and significant, favorable, and harmonious changes.<\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Types of otoplasty by case<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The most common types of otoplasty are the following:<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Otoplasty for prominent ears<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Known as <strong>protruding ears<\/strong>. A small incision is made behind the ear to remove part of the cartilage, reshape or suture to bring the auricle closer to the head and create facial harmony.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Size reduction<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In this procedure, excess cartilage is cut away, reshaped, and adjusted to the proper proportion for the face to achieve harmony and naturalness. Incisions are made from behind and in front, but they are imperceptible.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Correction of asymmetries and deformities<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To correct asymmetries and deformities, the surgeon makes an incision at the back of the ear to access the cartilage; it is reshaped and positioned as desired.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An incision can also be made at the front to correct <strong>lobe<\/strong> position or size.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Special cases<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Torn or elongated lobes are commonly caused by prolonged use of heavy earrings, aging, use of stretchers, or piercings. Otoplasty in this case may be accompanied by a <strong>lobuloplasty;<\/strong> a procedure where the hole is closed and the torn lobe is trimmed.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Microtia<\/strong> is a <strong>congenital<\/strong> ear malformation; the ear is very small or malformed. Through surgery, it is reconstructed using <strong>implants or cartilage<\/strong> from the patient&#8217;s ribs or nose.<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"640\" height=\"427\" src=\"https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/que-es-la-otoplastia.jpg\" alt=\"what is otoplasty\" class=\"wp-image-11463\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/que-es-la-otoplastia.jpg 640w, https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/que-es-la-otoplastia-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/que-es-la-otoplastia-350x234.jpg 350w, https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/que-es-la-otoplastia-370x247.jpg 370w, https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/que-es-la-otoplastia-255x170.jpg 255w, https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/que-es-la-otoplastia-285x190.jpg 285w, https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/que-es-la-otoplastia-600x400.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How is the operation? Step by step<\/h2>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Initial consultation and evaluation<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The initial consultation with the surgeon is very important. The specialist will review the patient&#8217;s medical history. Then, a technical evaluation of the ear pathology will be performed using specialized equipment, imaging, measurements, and angles.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As a patient, you should communicate to the surgeon what your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.miguelfernandezcalderon.com\/blog\/dudas-mas-frecuentes-acerca-de-la-otoplastia\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">questions and expectations for otoplasty<\/a> are.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Anesthesia: local vs general<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Local anesthesia is used for adults; general anesthesia is typically used for children.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Surgical technique<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Different surgical techniques can be used in otoplasty, such as:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Furnas technique: permanent sutures are placed to bring the ears closer to the head.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Scoring technique: Incisions are made to the cartilage to weaken it so it can be reshaped.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mustard\u00e9 Technique: The cartilage is folded to shape it and create the fold; sutures are applied to maintain it.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Suturing or closure: the surgeon proceeds to close the skin with sutures and hidden scars.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Duration and procedure type<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The surgery lasts 1 to 3 hours. It is performed on an outpatient basis; hospitalization is generally not required.<\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Recovery: what happens next and realistic timelines<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is very important that the patient follows the postoperative instructions provided by their surgeon. Recovery begins with approximately 6 days of rest, during which the patient cannot perform any physical exertion.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Bandaging and elastic band<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The ears will remain bandaged for 48 to 72 hours. Once the bandages are removed, an elastic band should be worn only at night for sleeping for one month.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Normal discomfort<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong> <\/strong>The ears will be swollen, with bruising, numbness, pain, and sensitivity.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Return to work\/school and sports<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The patient can return to their activities on the sixth day after surgery without physical exertion. Return to sports is possible one month after surgery.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Results: when they appear and how the scar evolves<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The results of the surgery are permanent and can be appreciated immediately; the patient will be able to see the results when the bandages are removed.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In the first months after surgery, the scar area will be slightly red; from the sixth month onwards it will begin to fade, and in approximately one year it will be imperceptible.<\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Risks and possible complications<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Although otoplasty is a safe and straightforward surgery, it does carry risks and possible complications. The most common are infections, allergic reactions, changes in skin sensitivity, and suture and scar problems.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Overcorrection, meaning the ears appear flattened, is another risk that can be avoided by following postoperative care and your surgeon&#8217;s instructions. Complications with grafts may also occur.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To avoid or minimize the risk of these symptoms or any others, it is recommended to choose a qualified aesthetic surgeon who performs <a href=\"https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/en\/otoplasty\/\">otoplasty<\/a> at a specialized clinic equipped to handle emergencies. At our Sculpture Clinic in Madrid, we are ready to assist you.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Warning signs to contact the clinic<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The <strong>postoperative period<\/strong> of this surgery causes certain discomforts. However, if you begin to experience severe pain, heavy bleeding, redness in the area, fluid at the suture site, fever, or excessive swelling, it is time to contact your surgeon and return to the clinic.<\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Conclusion<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now that you understand what otoplasty is, you can see it is a straightforward surgery to address aesthetic ear concerns. It helps children and adults regain their self-esteem, confidence, and sense of security. Its main advantage is that it is performed on an outpatient basis, with minimal risks and nearly imperceptible scars.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This surgery achieves greater harmony and balance in the face. If you believe you are a candidate for otoplasty, book your appointment for a free assessment at our clinic.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Sources:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>https:\/\/www.clinicadermatologicainternacional.com\/es\/tratamiento\/medicina-estetica\/otoplastia-2\/<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>https:\/\/www.dresmirandagarcia.com\/postoperatorio-otoplastia\/<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>https:\/\/manmedicalinstitute.com\/blog\/tipos-de-otoplastia-o-cirugia-de-las-orejas\/<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>https:\/\/clinicakyra.com\/orejas-asimetricas-otoplastia\/<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>https:\/\/manmedicalinstitute.com\/blog\/tipos-de-otoplastia-o-cirugia-de-las-orejas\/<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Nowadays, advances in surgical techniques benefit many patients who wish to improve some aspect of their appearance, whether for aesthetic or health reasons. Today we want to tell you about what otoplasty is; it is a straightforward procedure through which defects, malformations, or ear injuries in children and adults are corrected.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":13666,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_lmt_disableupdate":"","_lmt_disable":"","_mbp_gutenberg_autopost":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[146],"tags":[143],"class_list":["post-13665","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-otoplasty","tag-surgery"],"modified_by":null,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13665","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=13665"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13665\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":13667,"href":"https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13665\/revisions\/13667"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/13666"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=13665"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=13665"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=13665"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}