Prominent ears (sometimes called “bat ears”) are ears that are overly visible because the outer ear projects too far forward and outward. The term refers not to the size of the ear but to an excessively wide angle between the ear and the head.
Causes of prominent ears:
It is a congenital condition that runs in families. It results from ear cartilage that is not firm enough and folds that have not developed properly. It can also be affected by later injuries.
Problems caused by prominent ears:
Prominent ears can lead to self-confidence issues, especially starting at school age. Worry about being excluded or teased often leads to constant efforts to hide the ears. Psychological problems may develop from childhood onward in boys and men just as in girls and women. With modern surgical techniques, this condition can be corrected easily.
When is prominent ear surgery performed:
Development of the outer ear is complete at around age 5. The ideal time for surgery is at age 5–6, before the child starts school. For those who have missed this period, it can be performed at any time afterward.
Prominent ear surgery:
It is performed under general anesthesia in children and under local or general anesthesia in adults. The surgery takes about 1–1.5 hours on average and is done through an incision behind the ear. Different techniques are available to create the desired ear fold and angle. Because cartilage is more flexible in children, reshaping can be achieved with stitches. Depending on the condition of the cartilage, certain areas may be thinned or folded, and excess cartilage and soft tissue may be removed. If the incision is closed with dissolvable stitches, there is no need to remove them. After the ear has been given the proper shape, it is covered with a pressure dressing.
There is usually no significant pain after surgery; if there is, it is easily controlled with painkillers. The pressure dressing is changed periodically during the first week. After that, a headband covering the ears is worn at night for one month.
Prominent ear surgery is a simple, safe and effective operation. The results are permanent. It can make a significant contribution to a person’s self-confidence and, in turn, to their social life. For this reason, it is being performed with increasing frequency.
The information on our website is not intended to direct individuals to any treatment. Do not take any diagnostic or treatment steps without consulting your doctor. The content does not contain information about İzmir Can Hastanesi's therapeutic healthcare services.
