Otoplasy is a surgical procedure that corrects the shape and excessive protrusion of the auricular pavilion commonly termed “elephant ears.” The procedure has never affected hearing functions.

There are no age limits to this type of otoplasty, but it is recommendable to wait until the ear pavilion has fully developed or the person is fully convinced to undergo the procedure.

Otoplasty in children may be performed already from 8 to 10 years of age, when the pavilion has already reached its definitive shape and where aesthetic defects at times are the source of ridicule or embarrassment in their relationships with peers. However, otoplasty is also requested by adults and is done with excellent aesthetic results.

Like the other aesthetic procedures, otoplasty is also a very personalized intervention, and during consultation with the surgeon, the patient expresses his needs and expectations. The surgeon on his part guides the patient towards the best solution and will demonstrate the possible results.

It is fundamental for the patient to clearly understand the technical aspects and results obtained with otoplasty.

Otoplasty may be performed under local or general anesthesia. The operating theater is in all cases the same as that used for operations under general anesthesia, and will provide for sedation according to specific needs.

The facility where the operation is done is perfectly equipped and with an assigned, highly qualified medical and paramedical team on standby, ready to intervene for any needs that may arise.

The assistance of the anesthetist will be ensured up to the moment of discharge. In cases of both local and general anesthesia, the operation will be done in day-surgery standards. 

The operation will take about 1 – 1.5 hours. Before the otoplasty intervention, preparatory tests and an accurate anesthetic consultation will be performed.

Otoplasty entails the removal of a strip of skin, remodeling of the cartilage and removal of a fragment of the same from the basin, or the creation of soft natural curves, with permanent sutures in the convex zones. In this way the pavilion assumes the tilt and shape desired.