Lay ears

Protruding ears (also stigmatised as "sail ears") traumatise many adolescents and children and correction is sometimes desired as early as puberty. Strictly speaking, this type of surgery is not aesthetic cosmetic surgery but rather the restoration of a normal body image.
Otoplasty: correction of protruding ears
Duration of the OP | Outpatient operation lasting approx. 1 hour, under local anaesthetic, possibly in combination with a so-called twilight sleep or short anaesthesia |
Aftercare | Head bandage for 3-5 days, then headband for approx. 3 weeks |
Sociability | Rest for approx. 3 weeks |
Sport | Abstain from sport and sex for approx. 4 weeks |
Pain | low |
Otoplasty (ear pinning surgery) is a surgical procedure to improve the shape and position of the ears. The procedure, which is suitable for people of all ages, is usually performed under local anaesthetic and takes about an hour. The surgeon places the ear in the desired position and fixes it with fine sutures.
The result is usually permanent and can contribute to an improvement in self-confidence and self-acceptance.
Stigmatising experiences in life can reinforce the desire for an auroplasty. Our patients often hear phrases such as "dumbo", "sailor ear" and "flappy ear", which reinforce the desire for an ear correction.
In most cases, the position of the ear can be corrected by stable sutures in the upper part of the pinna. If the ear protrudes in the upper area AND in the lower area of the auditory canal, the ear pinning operation must be combined with a reduction of the inner auricle. This is often overlooked or ignored by inexperienced doctors, which means that we have to make corrections again and again. It is therefore worth finding out all you can about ear pinning and putting yourself in the experienced hands of a plastic surgeon.
For further information, please see the bottom of the page. This is where the advantages and disadvantages of the procedures are presented and the risks and side effects are explained. However, this cannot replace a personal consultation (also via video), in which these aspects are explained and adapted individually. We therefore look forward to a personal consultation with you!