At school, his or her friends may make fun of his or her ears, and this may prompt the child to be introverted and lacking in self-confidence. To avoid such problems, families can have their child operated as early as possible, for example in preschool years or during school years. Contrary to other organs, the ears complete their development in early ages. At the age of 5-6 years, they attain 80% of the size of an adult's. Therefore, it is possible to operate on them in very young ages.

The Operation

The operation is performed under local anesthesia. When desired, it may be performed under general or neurolept anesthesia as well. It lasts approximately 2 hours. The operation does not aim to downsize the seemingly large ears. The problem stems from insufficient development of ear curves and larger angle at the area where the ears are attached to the head. Therefore, the operation aims at forming the curves, which should have been naturally formed, and increasing the proximity of the ears to the head. An incision is inflicted behind the ear, and to form the curves, the ear cartilages are sutured. No incision or suturing is made on the front side of the ear.

Postoperative period

Postoperative period is pain free. The patient can go back to work the next day. The reshaped ear should be protected for some time. On the first day, a dressing is applied to cover both ears. After 2-3 days, the dressing is replaced with a bandana referred to as 'tennis player's bandage'. This bandage should be worn for a few months, particularly at night to avoid reversal of the ears. The sutures are removed after 10 days. Since they are located behind the ears, no scars are formed or visible.

Click here for pictures