Ear Surgery in Delafield
Ears that finally sit where they should.
Ear surgery, also known as otoplasty, is a surgical procedure that changes the shape, position, or proportion of the ears. It is most commonly performed to set prominent ears closer to the head or to reduce the size of large ears, and can also correct structural irregularities such as lop ear, cupped ear, or shell ear deformities. The procedure may be performed on children once the ears have reached near-full size (typically around age five) as well as on adults.
At a Glance
- Approximately 4,825 otoplasty procedures were performed by ASPS member surgeons in 2024[1]
- Otoplasty can be performed on children once the ears reach near-full size, typically around age five or six[4]
- Hematoma is the most common early complication, occurring in approximately 1 to 3 percent of cases[5]
- Results are typically visible immediately after dressings are removed and are generally long-lasting[1]
Overview
Otoplasty is a well-established cosmetic and reconstructive procedure that addresses the external ear (auricle). According to ASPS data, approximately 4,825 ear surgery procedures were performed by member surgeons in 2024. The procedure can correct a range of congenital and acquired ear deformities, with prominent or protruding ears being the most common indication.
Congenital auricular abnormalities occur in a significant proportion of live births, ranging from mild asymmetry to more notable structural deformities. Common conditions addressed by otoplasty include an underdeveloped antihelical fold, excess conchal cartilage causing ear protrusion, lop ear (downward folding of the upper ear), cupped ear (a small ear with a constricted rim), and Stahl's ear deformity (characterized by a pointed upper ear).
The surgery is performed using incision, scoring, and suture techniques to reshape the ear cartilage into a more natural position. The specific combination of techniques is selected based on the severity of the deformity and the characteristics of the individual's auricular cartilage. In adults, otoplasty may be performed under local anesthesia with sedation, while general anesthesia is typically used for children.
What to expect
- Consultation including ear examination, photography, and discussion of goals and expectations
- Preoperative assessment of ear anatomy, cartilage characteristics, and degree of protrusion
- Administration of local anesthesia with sedation (adults) or general anesthesia (children)
- An incision is made behind the ear in the natural crease where the ear meets the head
- The ear cartilage is exposed by elevating the skin from the posterior surface
- Suture techniques are used to reshape the antihelical fold and reposition the ear closer to the head
- Excess conchal cartilage is removed or scored if contributing to protrusion
- The process is repeated on the opposite ear, with careful attention to symmetry
- Incisions are closed with sutures and a protective head dressing is applied
- A follow-up headband may be prescribed for continued support during healing
How a ear surgery works
- An incision is typically made behind the ear in the natural crease where the ear meets the head, providing access to the ear cartilage while minimizing visible scarring.
- For prominent ears caused by an underdeveloped antihelical fold, the surgeon uses suture techniques (such as Mustarde sutures) to create or enhance the fold, bringing the ear closer to the head.
- When excess conchal cartilage contributes to ear protrusion, cartilage may be removed or scored, and concha-mastoid sutures may be placed to reduce the projection of the conchal bowl.
- Cartilage scoring (making controlled incisions in the cartilage surface) may be used to weaken the cartilage and allow it to bend into a new shape, particularly in cases of thick or stiff cartilage.
- After reshaping is complete, the skin is redraped, incisions are closed with sutures, and a protective head dressing or bandage is applied to support the ears in their new position during initial healing.
When it's recommended
- Prominent or protruding ears (ears that stick out noticeably from the head)
- Ears that are disproportionately large (macrotia)
- Lop ear (downward folding of the upper ear tip)
- Cupped or constricted ear (small ear with a tight, constricted rim)
- Shell ear (absence of natural folds and creases in the outer ear)
- Stahl's ear deformity (pointed shape of the upper ear)
- Ear asymmetry (noticeable difference in size or position between ears)
- Acquired ear deformity from trauma or injury (including cauliflower ear)
Is a ear surgery right for you?
Reach out to learn more from Dr. Lucas Boehm.
Recovery & aftercare
- A protective head dressing is worn for several days after surgery to support the ears
- Sutures are typically removed or begin to dissolve within 7 to 10 days
- A headband may be recommended for 4 to 6 weeks, particularly at night, to protect the ears during sleep
- Most patients return to school or desk work within approximately one week
- Swelling and mild discomfort typically resolve within 2 to 3 weeks
- Strenuous activities and contact sports should be avoided for approximately 4 to 6 weeks
- Results are typically visible immediately once dressings are removed and are generally long-lasting
Alternatives
- Ear molding (nonsurgical reshaping using splints in newborns, most effective within the first few weeks of life)
- Incisionless otoplasty using percutaneous suture techniques (for select cases of mild protrusion)
- Prosthetic ear reconstruction (for severe congenital deformities such as microtia)
Frequently Asked Questions
- Ear surgery, also known as otoplasty, is a procedure that changes the shape, position, or size of the ears. It is most commonly used to set prominent ears closer to the head, but can also correct a variety of ear shape irregularities including lop ear, cupped ear, and asymmetry.
- Ear surgery is performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, so patients do not feel pain during the procedure. After surgery, most patients experience mild to moderate soreness and a sensation of pressure around the ears, which is typically manageable with prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication.
- Otoplasty is generally considered a safe procedure when performed by a qualified, board-certified surgeon. It is a well-established surgery with a long track record. As with any surgical procedure, there are risks that are discussed during the consultation.
- Most patients return to school or desk work within about one week. A protective dressing is worn for several days, and a headband is often recommended for 4 to 6 weeks at night. Swelling and mild discomfort typically resolve within 2 to 3 weeks, and results are visible once dressings are removed.
- Otoplasty can typically be performed once the ears have reached near-full size, which is usually around age five or six. Early correction may help reduce potential social concerns related to ear appearance during school years. A consultation can determine whether a child is a suitable candidate.
- Ear surgery may not be appropriate for children under age five whose ears have not reached near-full size, individuals with active ear infections, those with uncontrolled bleeding disorders, or patients with unrealistic expectations. A thorough evaluation during consultation helps determine candidacy.
Ear Surgery risks & candidacy
Who should avoid this
- Active ear infection or otitis externa
- Uncontrolled bleeding disorders or anticoagulant use without medical clearance
- Unrealistic expectations regarding surgical outcomes
- Children under age five (ears have not yet reached near-full size)
- Active skin infection at or near the surgical site
- Significant medical conditions that increase surgical risk (uncontrolled diabetes, severe cardiopulmonary disease)
- Poorly controlled psychiatric conditions (surgery should be deferred until stabilized)
Possible risks
- Hematoma (blood collection under the skin), occurring in approximately 1 to 3 percent of cases
- Infection at the surgical site, which may rarely involve the cartilage (chondritis)
- Asymmetry or overcorrection (ears positioned too close to the head)
- Undercorrection or recurrence of ear protrusion
- Suture extrusion (sutures working through the skin surface)
- Scarring (typically hidden behind the ear but may become hypertrophic or keloid in predisposed individuals)
- Changes in skin sensation or temporary numbness around the ears
- Cartilage distortion or contour irregularities
- Anesthesia-related risks
Your surgeon
Care that respects what makes you, you.
Dr. Lucas Boehm is a Wisconsin native, board-certified, fellowship-trained plastic surgeon and the founder of Consona Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics. His practice is dedicated exclusively to aesthetic surgery of the face, nose, breast, and body, with particular expertise in deep plane facelifts, rhinoplasty, and aesthetic breast surgery. He completed his undergraduate education at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, earned his medical degree from the Medical College of Wisconsin, and completed his plastic surgery residency there as well. He then pursued an Aesthetic Society-endorsed fellowship in aesthetic surgery under the mentorship of Dr. Bradley Calobrace in Louisville, Kentucky. Known for meticulous attention to detail, he approaches each case with precision and intention. His philosophy emphasizes harmony and balance – enhancing what is already beautiful while ensuring every change feels natural, thoughtful, and uniquely you.
- Board-certified
- Am. Board of Plastic Surgery
- Fellowship-trained
- Aesthetic surgery
- 12+ years
- In practice
Sources & references
This article draws on 6 sources, including peer-reviewed research, leading medical institutions.
Government & research
Medical institutions
Medically reviewed by Dr. Lucas Boehm, MD · Last reviewed: 2026-06-13