Otoplasty, or ear surgery, alters the shape, position, or proportion of the ears. It’s most commonly performed to bring prominent ears closer to the head, but it can also correct asymmetry or a deformity present from birth or resulting from injury.
Because the ears sit at the side of the head, even a modest change makes a noticeable difference to how balanced the face appears from the front — and the incision is hidden behind the ear, so the correction itself isn’t visible.
A Good Candidate
- Anyone unhappy with ears that protrude or sit away from the head
- Adults and children — the ears reach close to adult size early in childhood, so the procedure can usually be performed from around age five, once the cartilage is developed enough to hold its new shape
- In good general health, and a non-smoker
- Holding realistic expectations
For younger patients, we’ll discuss timing with both the child and their parents at consultation, so the decision suits the individual rather than a fixed age rule.
Preparation
- Consult with your surgeon to discuss your goals and confirm the right approach.
- Stop smoking for at least two weeks before surgery.
- Stop medications, vitamins, or herbal supplements that interfere with blood clotting, such as aspirin, as directed.
The Procedure
The surgeon makes a small incision behind the ear to expose the cartilage, then sculpts it and folds it back toward the head. Permanent internal sutures are usually placed to hold the cartilage in its new position — these stay in place and aren’t removed. In some cases the surgeon removes a small piece of cartilage to create a more natural-looking fold.
The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation for adults, or general anesthesia for children and for more extensive corrections. It takes around 1–2 hours depending on how much reshaping is needed.
Immediately afterward, the head is wrapped in a bulky bandage to support healing and protect the new shape.
Post-operative Care
- The ears may throb or ache for a few days. This is manageable with the medication provided.
- Within a few days the bulky bandage is replaced with a lighter dressing similar to a headband. Follow your surgeon’s instructions on wearing it, particularly overnight.
- Any external stitches are removed, or dissolve, after about a week.
- Avoid salty food to help reduce swelling.
- Sleep on your back and avoid pressure on the ears.
- Avoid activities that could pull or knock the ears, including contact sports.
- Attend all follow-up appointments.
Recovery
Most adults return to work within about a week, and children typically return to school after one to two weeks, once the dressing period is complete. Contact sports and swimming should wait for around 4–6 weeks so the cartilage can settle securely.
Some swelling and firmness are normal for several weeks. The result is visible immediately once the dressing comes off, and settles into its final shape over the following months.
Risks and Complications
Swelling, redness, and bruising are expected in the first days after surgery and settle on their own. Genuine complications are uncommon but include:
- Infection
- Bleeding or hematoma
- Pain beyond the expected recovery period
- Scarring behind the ear
- Asymmetry between the two ears
- Recurrence — the ears gradually moving outward again, which may require revision
- Suture extrusion, where an internal stitch works its way to the surface
- Overcorrection, with the ears set too close to the head
- Changes in skin sensation around the ear
Your surgeon will discuss all of these before you decide.
Earlobe Repair
Alongside otoplasty, we offer earlobe repair — a straightforward procedure that restores an earlobe damaged by an elongated or torn piercing, stretching, or keloid scarring.
The surgeon trims the healed skin along the inside of the split, then sutures the fresh edges together. Sutures are removed after five days. It’s performed under local anesthesia as a day procedure.
If your concern is specifically keloid tissue, see also our Keloid Removal page.
Before & After
Reviews for Ear surgery, Otoplasty
Why Choose Kamol Hospital in Bangkok for Otoplasty
- Surgeons experienced in ear reshaping: Our plastic surgeons correct prominent ears, asymmetry and ear deformities caused by injury or present from birth. Each case is planned around the ear’s cartilage structure and the proportions of the face.
- Discreet technique: Incisions are placed in the natural crease behind the ear, so scars are hidden once healed.
- Day surgery in most cases: Most adult procedures are performed under local anesthesia, so you can go home the same day. For younger patients, general anesthesia is available with an experienced anesthesia team.
- Related treatments in one place: Earlobe repair and keloid removal are also available, and otoplasty can be planned alongside other facial procedures.
- Hospital-level safety: Kamol Cosmetic Hospital is accredited by Joint Commission International (JCI) for quality of care and patient safety.
- Support for international patients: Multilingual coordinators and Kamol Trip help you plan your stay, from consultation through follow-up.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What exactly is otoplasty, and how can it improve my life?
Can you imagine no longer feeling self-conscious about the appearance of your ears? Otoplasty (also known as bat ear correction) can make that a reality. It’s a surgical procedure that reshapes prominent ears, bringing them closer to the head and creating a more balanced and harmonious facial appearance.
If you’ve ever felt held back by your ears or wished they were less noticeable, otoplasty can provide a lasting solution.
Am I a suitable candidate for this otoplasty?
While individual circumstances vary, ideal candidates are generally:
- In good health: Individuals who are in good overall health and have realistic expectations about the outcome.
- Have large or “bat-like” ears: Those with especially large ears, or have ears that protrude significantly, make excellent candidates for otoplasty.
- A desire for self-enhancement: Those who are seeking to refine their appearance and boost their self-esteem.
Otoplasty can be performed once the ears have reached most of their adult size, which usually happens by around 5–6 years of age. Many families choose surgery before a child starts school. Adults can have otoplasty at any age, and the cartilage is simply firmer to reshape. Children usually have the procedure under general anesthesia, while most adults need only local anesthesia
Could my ears stick out again after surgery?
The cartilage is held in its new position with permanent internal stitches, so results are long-lasting for most patients. A small degree of relapse can happen, especially in the first few weeks while the cartilage settles. That’s why wearing a headband at night during recovery is so important. If one ear moves forward noticeably, a minor revision can correct it.
Can otoplasty correct just one ear, or make ears smaller?
Yes. Surgery can be done on one ear to match it to the other. Otoplasty mainly brings prominent ears closer to the head, which also makes them look smaller from the front. If the ear itself is large, or the earlobe is oversized, the surgeon can reduce part of the ear’s rim or the earlobe.
When can I wear earrings again after earlobe repair?
Stitches are removed about 5 days after earlobe repair. The repaired lobe needs time to regain its strength, so it’s best to wait at least 6 months before having it re-pierced. Re-piercing slightly away from the scar line helps reduce the risk of tearing again.
Is Bangkok, Thailand a good place to have otoplasty or bat ear surgery?
Bangkok, Thailand is an established destination for cosmetic and reconstructive procedures, including otoplasty. At Kamol Cosmetic Hospital, ear surgery is planned around each patient’s ear anatomy, facial proportions, and desired outcome. The hospital is also accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI), with care provided from the initial consultation through recovery.
How long should I stay in Bangkok after otoplasty?
Most otoplasty is day surgery, so you can return to your hotel the same day. Plan to stay in Bangkok for about 7 days, until your stitches are removed and your surgeon has checked your ears. Thailand is one of Asia’s leading destinations for facial surgery, and many patients combine otoplasty with procedures such as rhinoplasty or eyelid surgery. Kamol Trip can arrange accommodation close to the hospital.
