Otoplasty

Otoplasty is a surgical procedure aimed at altering the shape, size, or position of the ears. It is often performed to correct ear deformities, such as protruding ears, or to reconstruct ears after injury. Otoplasty can be performed on both adults and children, usually after their ears have fully developed, which typically occurs by the age of 5-6.

The procedure is typically done under local anesthesia with sedation or under general anesthesia, depending on the patient’s age and the complexity of the surgery. During the surgery, the surgeon makes small incisions behind the ears or in hidden areas on the ears to remove or reposition cartilage and skin, creating a more natural and aesthetic ear position.

The recovery period after otoplasty usually lasts for several weeks, during which the patient may need to wear a bandage to support and protect the ears. The results of the surgery are long-lasting and often last a lifetime.

Otoplasty is often combined with other procedures such as SMAS facelift, rhinoplasty, or blepharoplasty.

Short surgery information

  • Surgery Duration: 1-2 hours

  • Anesthesia Type: Sedation

  • Hospitalization: 1-2 hours

  • Return to Normal Life: Within 3-5 days

  • Clinic Visits: 3-4 times

  • Stitches Removal: 7th day

Why patients consider otoplasty

Patients consider otoplasty, a surgical procedure for ear correction, for several reasons:

  • Issues with Ear Shape and Size: Some individuals are born with ears they consider too large, too small, or of the wrong shape.

  • Protruding Ears: One of the most common reasons for otoplasty is the desire to correct protruding ears, which can cause psychological discomfort or teasing, especially in children.

  • Injuries or Deformities: Injuries or previous surgical interventions can alter the shape of the ears, making them a source of self-consciousness or dissatisfaction.

  • Congenital Anomalies: Some individuals are born with ear deformities such as microtia (excessively small ears) or anotia (absence of ears), which can be improved or corrected with otoplasty.

  • Enhancing Self-Esteem and Confidence: Some patients experience psychological discomfort due to the appearance of their ears. Otoplasty can help improve self-esteem and self-confidence.

  • Professional or Social Reasons: In some cases, individuals may choose otoplasty for professional or social reasons if they feel that the appearance of their ears hinders their work or social interactions.

  • Aesthetic Preferences: Some people simply want to change the appearance of their ears to achieve a specific aesthetic look.

Otoplasty is generally considered a safe and effective procedure that can significantly improve the quality of life for patients, especially those who have long experienced discomfort or self-consciousness due to the appearance of their ears.

Candidates for surgery:

Otoplasty is typically suitable for candidates who meet the following criteria:

  • Age: Patients of all age groups can be candidates for otoplasty, but it is most often recommended for children aged 5 to 14, as their ears are fully developed by this time, and children begin to be aware of their appearance.

  • Good Health: Candidates should be in overall good health and should not have serious medical conditions that could complicate the surgery or recovery.

  • Ear Issues: The surgery is most commonly performed on individuals with pronounced ear deformities, such as “bat ears,” ear asymmetry, excessively large or small ears, or ears affected by trauma or previous surgeries.

  • Realistic Expectations: Candidates should understand the possibilities and limitations of otoplasty and have realistic expectations regarding the surgery’s results.

  • Psychological State: It is important for the patient to be motivated for the surgery, especially in the case of children who should understand the procedure and express a desire to undergo it.

  • Absence of Certain Medical Conditions: For example, severe allergies, blood clotting issues, or chronic ear conditions may be contraindications for otoplasty.

Why South Korea for cosmetic surgery?

South Korea is renowned for its thriving cosmetic surgery industry, attracting patients from around the world seeking top-notch medical care and aesthetic enhancements. Local physicians are considered some of the most highly educated and competitive in the world, with only a fraction of medical graduates becoming plastic surgeons, making it a highly specialized field. South Korea’s medical facilities boast state-of-the-art equipment, on par with the best in the United States and Germany, placing the country among the top three nations with the best technical capabilities in clinics.

All surgeries are performed in accredited clinics with permission to treat international patients and staffed by dedicated anesthesiologists. Surgeons performing procedures have 15 to 30 years of experience and specialize in the declared operations, limiting themselves to no more than two surgeries per day. To assist you in planning your journey to South Korea for your surgery, please fill out our QUESTIONNAIRE, allowing us to calculate the treatment cost, provide a preliminary consultation, and prepare a travel plan.

Preparing for otoplasty in South Korea:

  • Fasting: Refrain from eating and drinking for 8 hours before the procedure, and take a shower.

  • Medications: Avoid taking aspirin, ibuprofen (including Advil or Motrin), and other drugs that may increase the risk of excessive bleeding for two weeks before the surgery. Tylenol should be avoided only for three days before the operation.

  • Smoking: Quit smoking, including hookah and e-cigarettes, as it reduces blood flow to the skin and can slow down tissue healing. Your surgeon may recommend quitting smoking before the operation, and some surgeons refuse to operate on smokers due to the higher risk of complications.

  • Medical History: Review your medical history and be prepared to answer questions about current and past illnesses, as well as any recent medications you have taken. Please do not hide this information from your surgeon and coordinators.

  • Consultation: Schedule an examination with the surgeon and show them photos of your desired results.

  • Medical Tests: If you had tests done less than a month ago, you can bring them with you. Otherwise, all necessary tests will be conducted in Korea.

  • Transportation: Arrange for someone to take you to the clinic or assist you after the operation if you plan to drive.

  • Prepare Essentials: Place items next to your bed that you may need during your recovery, such as lip balm, water, a chocolate bar, or your mobile phone.

The surgery process

Before the surgery, you will undergo a minimum of two consultations with the surgeon and provide the necessary tests to access the procedure. On the morning of the operation, the surgeon will mark your face, answer any questions, and hand you over to the medical coordinator. You will be taken to the bathroom, asked about your well-being, and the time of your last food and water intake will be checked.

Then, you will be escorted to the operating room, where your hands and feet will be secured to ensure your safety and prevent involuntary movements during the procedure. A catheter will be inserted into your arm for the administration of medications and anesthesia. Once the anesthesiologist puts you to sleep, the surgeon will begin the operation, making small incisions behind your ears, reshaping the cartilage and other tissues, and suturing the incisions. After the surgery, a special bandage will be applied to your ears to protect the surgical area, hold the tissues together, and reduce swelling.

Post-operative expectations

After the operation, a translator or medical nurses will wake you up and assist you to your room. Most patients do not remember this moment, as the anesthesia takes effect. In the first 10-20 minutes after waking up, you may experience chills, but these will pass quickly. A warming mattress will be provided on your bed to make this period more comfortable. While some discomfort may be present, it is alleviated by pain-relieving injections and medications used during the surgery.

You may also feel discomfort due to the compression bandage; patience is essential as you wait for the effects to subside. You will remain in the clinic for several hours after the operation, with a catheter in your arm for medication administration. Toward the evening, the coordinator and medical staff will assess your condition. If you do not experience symptoms such as dizziness and nausea, you can prepare for discharge: change clothes, collect prescribed medications, and receive post-operative recommendations.

After discharge, any pain you experience may intensify slightly. Ensure you have several pillows under your head to reduce swelling and take the prescribed pain relievers containing analgesics. You may experience mild headaches, which are normal and should not cause concern. Continue to follow the rehabilitation guidelines. By the end of the week, your ears will look much better, and you can gradually return to your normal routine.

Book a consultation with the clinic coordinator or plastic surgeon today! You can schedule a consultation by filling out the QUESTIONNAIRE or contacting us via any messenger at +82-10-4214-9603.

Ear plastic surgery (otoplasty) in South Korea: procedure and recovery

Immediately After the Procedure: After the otoplasty procedure, you will have compression bandages on your ears, and you may experience moderate pain. You will spend several hours in the clinic under the observation of medical staff. Your ears will start to swell, and you may feel pressure under the bandages. Unfortunately, you will have to endure this discomfort for several days.

Days 1-2: Swelling reaches its peak during this time, which is normal. Continue to follow the rehabilitation guidelines.

Days 3-7: Swelling gradually starts to subside. The surgeon checks the tissue healing, and nurses remove the bandage. Avoid sports and activities that require bending the head down. Continue to sleep with your head elevated.

Days 7-14: Sutures are removed, swelling reduces, discomfort disappears, and you can gradually return to your normal life. Regular long walks are recommended for faster recovery. Do not smoke for 25-30 days after the surgery to avoid infection. Vaping, hookah, and other forms of smoking are strictly prohibited. If additional swelling occurs due to a lapse, immediately contact the coordinator and do not hide the reason for the infection.

Days 14-30: Continue to avoid intensive workouts and physical activities. Follow the rehabilitation rules, refrain from smoking and alcohol consumption. Swelling and bruises diminish to the point where the fact that you had surgery is not noticeable to others.

Days 31-60: Swelling almost completely disappears, and you forget about the surgery.

Days 60-90: You can swim in the sea, sunbathe, do regular exercises, and lead a normal life.

1 Year After the Surgery: Complete the rehabilitation process.

Frequently Asked Questions

We provide patients with the total cost, including post-operative care, anesthesia, room stay, medications, and even VAT (which can be refunded as tax-free). The cost of the surgery ranges from 3,200,000 to 5,500,000 KRW depending on the clinic. Accredited plastic surgeons in Korea caution that the surgery price may change after a personal examination and information about whether your surgery is primary or revision.

Before & After

Patient results may vary. Please remember that to provide you with detailed information about treatment and your trip, you need to fill out a QUESTIONNAIRE, describe your desired results in detail, and attach your photos. The information provided on the website does not guarantee that this procedure is suitable for you.