What is otoplasty?
Otoplasty is a surgical procedure to reshape, reposition or reduce the ears. It most commonly corrects prominent ears — ears that protrude excessively from the head — but can also address asymmetry, abnormal ear shape, or overly large earlobes. Despite being one of the simpler aesthetic operations, otoplasty can have a profound positive impact on a patient's self-confidence and quality of life, particularly for children who may face social difficulties because of the appearance of their ears.
Dr. Galati performs otoplasty as a day-case procedure under local anaesthesia for adults and older children, or under general anaesthesia for younger patients. His technique focuses on achieving a natural and symmetrical result: the ears are set closer to the head in a position that looks harmonious — not "pinned back" — and each ear is individually assessed so that symmetry is maximised.
What can otoplasty correct?
- Prominent ears: ears that protrude more than 2 cm from the side of the head, most often due to an underdeveloped antihelical fold or excess conchal cartilage
- Ear asymmetry: significant difference in the size, shape or projection of the two ears
- Cup ear / constricted ear: a folded or constricted upper third of the ear
- Macrotia: ears that are disproportionately large relative to the face
- Earlobe irregularities: oversized, torn or deformed earlobes
Surgical technique
The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia with sedation for adults (60–90 minutes) or under general anaesthesia for children. A discreet incision is made in the natural crease behind the ear. Depending on the cause of the protrusion, Dr. Galati will sculpt the cartilage to create or reinforce the antihelical fold, and/or reduce the conchal bowl, setting the ear into a natural, harmonious position. Permanent internal sutures hold the cartilage in its new position. The incision is closed with dissolvable or fine removable sutures, leaving a scar hidden entirely behind the ear.
Recovery timeline
- Days 1–2: bulky protective dressing; mild discomfort managed with analgesics
- Day 5–7: dressing replaced with a soft headband; sutures removed or dissolving
- Weeks 1–2: headband worn continuously; adults can return to desk work
- Weeks 2–6: headband worn at night only; result clearly visible
- 6 weeks: contact sports and activities with ear-contact risk can resume
- Months 3–6: scars fully matured; definitive, stable result
Children can usually return to school within 7–10 days. It is important to protect the ears from being bent or struck during healing — loose clothing that opens at the front is recommended for the first 2 weeks.
Otoplasty in Italy — why choose Dr. Galati?
Dr. Galati has performed otoplasty for patients of all ages, from young children to adults, combining technical precision with a sensitive, patient-centred approach. His board certification in plastic surgery and over 20 years of clinical experience ensure that each patient receives a safe, meticulous procedure and a result designed to last a lifetime. His three clinic locations in Lecce, Parma and Milan allow convenient access from anywhere in Italy — or for international patients arriving at any of these cities.
To enquire about a consultation or to plan a procedure as an international patient, please contact us at info@clinicachirurgiaplastica.it.
Frequently asked questions
Otoplasty can be performed from the age of 6, once the ear cartilage has reached approximately 85% of its adult size. Adults of any age can undergo the procedure without restriction.
A protective headband is worn continuously for the first 2 weeks, then only at night for 4 more weeks. Sutures are removed at 10 days. Most adults return to work within 5–7 days; children can return to school after 7–10 days. Contact sports must be avoided for 6 weeks.
The incision is placed in the crease behind the ear between the ear and the scalp. It is invisible from the front and barely perceptible from behind, fading to a fine pale line within a few months.
Discomfort is generally mild and well-controlled with standard pain relief. A sensation of pressure or tenderness around the ears is normal for the first few days. Most patients find the experience far less uncomfortable than anticipated.