Otoplasty (Ear Pinning) in Istanbul

Overview & objectives

Otoplasty brings protruding, asymmetric or poorly defined ears into a natural, harmonious position—without a “stuck on” look. The focus is precise remodelling of the antihelix, concha and earlobe, so the auricle sits closer to the head, the fold anatomy becomes clearer and the silhouette calmer. We use tissue-sparing, pre-planned techniques that respect cartilage relief; the goal is a result that doesn’t look operated on in normal eye contact.

In consultation we analyse head shape, hairline, glasses contact points, ear size and—above all—the cause of prominence: a missing/flat antihelix, oversized concha, or a mix. Multi-angle photo documentation and side-by-side planning are standard; slight natural asymmetries are intentionally preserved to keep authenticity.

Who is a candidate?

Suitable for children (from ~5–6 years, once ear cartilage has largely matured), adolescents and adults troubled by protruding ears, dominant concha, unclear folds, or size/shape asymmetries. Contraindications include active skin disease, untreated cartilage infection, or unrealistic expectations. If you’re prone to hypertrophic/keloid scars, we counsel carefully on scar care and alternatives.

Chin Augmentation / Genioplasty / Mentoplasty

Surgery Duration1-2 hours
AnesthesiaGeneral or local anesthesia
PainMedium
ScarsSmall scar inside the mouth or under the chin
Socially Presentable1 week later
DurabilityPermanent
Hospital Stay1 night
Healing & AftercareBandage and edema follow-up 1-2 weeks
Fully Recovered After2-3 weeks
Visible Results2-3 months
Sports3-4 weeks later
Duration of Stay in Istanbul1+4 days

Methods & techniques

Incisions are predominantly retroauricular (behind the ear) and later unobtrusive.

  • Antihelix definition: long-lasting Mustardé sutures shape the elastic cartilage into a natural curve.
  • Concha dominance: Furnas sutures set the concha back to the mastoid fascia or, when needed, a subtle conchotomy reduces it—bringing the ear closer to the head.
  • Rather than aggressive cutting, we soften cartilage with fine scorings/rasping so it bends without fracture lines.
  • Earlobe and helix rim are proportioned when necessary; piercing defects can be corrected in the same session.

The operation can be unilateral or bilateral; each side is measured individually to keep symmetry natural and avoid over-correction.

Anaesthesia & workflow

Three options in Istanbul: local anaesthesia, local + twilight sedation (very comfortable for adults), and general anaesthesia—the latter is common in children. After markings in a seated position we perform gentle dissection, cartilage shaping with form sutures, and low-tension closure. Both ears together usually take 60–120 minutes. Typically outpatient with short observation; an overnight stay is possible if needed.

Aftercare — practical & thorough

For the first 48 hours: intermittent cooling, head elevation, and consistent pain/swelling control.

  • A soft head bandage protects for 3–5 days; then a headband—as needed by day and consistently at night for 4–6 weeks—prevents accidental folding during sleep.
  • Avoid pressure from headphones, tight caps or hard spectacle arms for the first two weeks; lightweight glasses are often possible soon.

Non-absorbable sutures are removed after 7–10 days. Showering is allowed from the next day with protection; pat dry carefully. Office/school work is usually feasible after 3–5 days; visible bruising fades within 1–2 weeks. Non-impact sports after 2–3 weeks; contact/ball sports better after 6–8 weeks. Silicone gel/tapes, gentle lymphatic therapy and SPF 50+ support fine scar maturation. Mild tension/pressure in the first days is normal; marked pain, increasing swelling or redness require prompt review to treat a haematoma or early perichondrial irritation.

Risks & safety

Under- or over-correction, asymmetry, haematoma, infection/perichondritis, suture extrusion, sensory changes and conspicuous scars are possible but overall uncommon. Key factors are precise planning, atraumatic technique, absolutely dry surgical field, and reliable dressing/follow-up protection. For keloid-prone patients we discuss prophylaxis and possible later refinements. 

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

1Are the scars visible?
Incisions sit behind the ear and are usually very discreet. They can look pink for a few weeks; with UV protection, silicone care and avoiding tension, they mature flat and pale. With keloid tendency we plan close prophylaxis.
2How much pain and swelling should I expect?
Most describe pressure rather than pain, especially under the bandage. Cooling, elevation and prescribed medication keep symptoms well controlled. A sudden increase in pain or tightness can indicate a haematoma—seek review promptly.
3When can I return to work or school?
Office/school is often possible after 3–5 days. Early bruising is possible and can be covered with hair/a cap. Avoid contact/ball sports 6–8 weeks; general fitness without ear pressure is realistic after 2–3 weeks.
4Can the correction relapse?
A small risk exists, particularly with very springy cartilage or inadequate protection early on. Form sutures, careful fixation and night headband use for 4–6 weeks reduce this significantly. Small residual prominence can later be fine-tuned minimally invasively.
5Is the procedure suitable for children?
Yes—from 5–6 years when cartilage is largely matured and the child can cooperate. Early correction helps avoid stigma. Anaesthesia, bandaging and downtime are tailored to children; parents receive a clear aftercare plan.
6What about glasses or headphones?
Avoid hard spectacle arms and on-ear headphones for the first two weeks. After medical clearance, wear lightweight glasses carefully; for work, a soft spacer on the arm helps. Over-ear models are more comfortable later—as long as they don’t press on the scar.