Services / Otoplasty (Ear Surgery)
Otoplasty (Ear Surgery)
Otoplasty reshapes the cartilage of the ear to correct prominence, asymmetry, or other structural concerns, restoring a more balanced profile. At Clinica Estetica OP in Santiago de los Caballeros, Dr. Juan Óscar Polanco Cirineo evaluates each patient's ear anatomy carefully, whether the patient is a child or an adult. Individual results vary, and an in-person evaluation is required before any surgical plan is confirmed.
What otoplasty is and who it suits
Otoplasty reshapes or repositions the ear cartilage, most commonly to reduce prominence when the ears protrude noticeably from the head, though it can also correct asymmetry, size differences, or shape irregularities present from birth or caused by injury.
It can be appropriate for children once ear cartilage has sufficiently developed, as well as for teenagers and adults who have lived with self-consciousness about their ears for years. Each case is evaluated individually to determine the right time and technique.
Benefits of ear reshaping
By bringing the ears into better proportion with the head and face, otoplasty can noticeably reduce the self-consciousness that many patients, especially children, experience around this feature. The change is often described as making the whole head look more balanced rather than simply making the ears smaller.
Incisions are typically placed behind the ear in the natural fold, so resulting scars are well hidden from most viewing angles once healed, supporting a discreet, natural-looking outcome.
What to expect: consultation, surgery, and recovery
During consultation, Dr. Polanco assesses the cartilage structure, degree of prominence or asymmetry, and, for younger patients, discusses the procedure with both the child and the parents to ensure everyone feels comfortable and informed.
The surgery reshapes the cartilage through a discreet incision and is generally performed on an outpatient basis. A supportive headband or dressing is typically worn for a period afterward to protect the new shape while the tissue heals, and specific recovery instructions are provided individually.
Why choose Dr. Polanco and Clinica Estetica OP
Ear surgery requires careful cartilage sculpting and an understanding of how subtle changes affect overall facial balance. Dr. Polanco's broad surgical training, including general surgery specialization through UNIPAR in Brazil and ongoing plastic surgery education at Universidade Brasil, São Paulo, supports the precision this procedure demands.
Families and adult patients alike benefit from the clinic's calm, bilingual environment in Santiago de los Caballeros, where questions are welcomed and every step is explained clearly before moving forward.
Timing: children versus adults
One of the unique aspects of otoplasty is that timing differs significantly between children and adults. In children, addressing prominent ears before school age can help reduce years of potential teasing, once the cartilage is developed enough to hold the new shape reliably.
In adults, the decision is often made after years of consideration, and cartilage tends to be firmer, which can influence surgical technique. In both cases, Dr. Polanco tailors the approach to the patient's specific anatomy and stage of life during an in-person evaluation.
Frequently asked questions
At what age can a child have otoplasty?
Otoplasty is often considered once ear cartilage has developed sufficiently, which for many children is around school age. Dr. Polanco will assess readiness individually during consultation.
Is otoplasty only for prominent ears?
While prominence is the most common concern, otoplasty can also address asymmetry, size differences between ears, or shape irregularities. Each case is assessed individually.
Will scars be visible?
Incisions are generally placed behind the ear in the natural crease, so resulting scars are typically well concealed once healed. Individual healing varies.
How long is the recovery period?
Most patients resume everyday activities within a couple of weeks, though a protective headband may be recommended for a period afterward. Specific timelines are discussed individually.
Benefits
- Brings ears into better proportion with the head and face
- Can correct prominence, asymmetry, or shape irregularities
- Scars discreetly hidden behind the natural ear fold
- Suitable for both children and adults after evaluation
- Individualized surgical plan and supportive aftercare guidance
Related procedures
- Rhinoplasty
- Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)
- Surgical Face and Neck Rejuvenation
Considering this procedure?
Book a private consultation in Santiago de los Caballeros and get a straight answer about your candidacy.