Facial Aesthetic

Ear Surgery (Otoplasty)

An otoplasty is a procedure designed to reshape ears to improve their appearance and position. It is commonly performed in Brisbane to correct prominent ears, where the ears stick out more than usual, but it can also address differences in ear shape, folds that did not form properly, or deformities from injury.

Otoplasty

Overview

An otoplasty is performed through a small incision hidden in the crease behind the ear, making scarring very discreet. The goal is to improve the shape and position of the ears while maintaining a natural, balanced appearance that complements your facial features.

Techniques

Several techniques may be used depending on your cartilage shape and the reasons your ears appear prominent:

Internal sutures
In many patients, the inner ridge of the ear (the antihelical fold) is underdeveloped. Internal sutures placed behind the ear can recreate this fold and bring the ear closer to the side of the head. This is often combined with gentle scoring of the cartilage to help it bend more easily.
‍Conchal bowl reduction
If the central bowl of the ear (the conchal bowl) is large or deep, it can push the ear outward. A small amount of cartilage may be reshaped or removed to reduce its projection. ‍
Earlobe setback or reduction
Some patients have a protruding earlobe or outward rotation of the entire ear. Setback sutures can reposition the ear closer to the head, and the earlobe can be reduced if required.

Every ear is slightly different, so the combination of techniques used will vary to achieve the best overall balance and symmetry.

What to Expect:

First Week

At the end of the operation, a bulky dressing (head bandage) is wrapped around your head to support the ears and reduce swelling. It may feel warm or a little heavy. Mild discomfort, tightness around the ears, and temporary numbness are all normal and usually managed with simple pain relief. The head bandage must stay on for the first week and kept dry when showering. Taking this week off work or school is recommended. Sleeping propped up on pillows helps avoid pressure on the ears and reduces swelling.

Weeks Two to Three

At the one-week review appointment, the dressing will be removed, and the surgeon will check the healing of each ear. The ears may still be bruised and appear quite set back, but over the next few weeks they will gradually move forward. You will no longer need the bulky bandage but should wear a soft protective headband to maintain ear position and prevent accidental bumps or folds, especially during sleep. Swelling continues to settle, and most people can return to normal routines including school, work, and gentle exercise. Hair can be washed gently using shampoo without pulling the ears forward. Swimming and situations where the ears could be bumped or twisted should still be avoided.

After Four Weeks

By the fourth week, the ears usually feel more natural, although mild swelling or firmness may persist for several months. The headband is typically worn only at night for a full six weeks after surgery. Light exercise is generally safe, but swimming should be avoided for six weeks and contact sports for at least eight to twelve weeks. The shape of the ears will continue to improve as swelling resolves.

Possible Risks

Most people recover well from otoplasty, but complications can occur. Common temporary issues include bruising, swelling, and numbness around the ears, which usually resolve over time. More significant risks may include infection or bleeding, including haematoma that may require drainage. There may be asymmetry if the ears heal differently from each other, or a gradual return of the ears toward their original position, including the possibility of over-correction. Internal sutures can sometimes be felt under thin skin or become visible. Scarring behind the ears is usually fine, although some patients may develop thicker scars such as keloids or hypertrophic scars.

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Medicare Coverage:

Medicare may provide a rebate for otoplasty if the procedure is performed to correct prominent ears causing significant functional, psychological, or social difficulty, usually in children and adolescents under 18. Adults may qualify if ear prominence is related to a congenital anomaly. Surgery performed purely for cosmetic reasons is not covered by Medicare, and private health insurance typically does not cover hospital costs. Even with a Medicare item number, out-of-pocket costs may apply for surgery, anaesthesia, or hospital fees depending on insurance coverage.