If the consultation is for a child
- The assessment considers whether the ear has developed sufficiently.
- Age and suitability for surgery are decided individually.
- The child's own wish to have the procedure also matters.
Dr. Gustavo Suárez · Facial surgery
Otoplastyin Barcelona.
Dr. Gustavo Suárez performs otoplasty, surgery that can change the shape, size or distance of the ears from the head. Examination of the area and each person's medical history guide the recommendation.
Request a consultation What is otoplasty?The reason for seeking a consultation
Shape and position
of the ears.
Otoplasty is ear surgery. It can change their shape, size or distance from the head. The usual reason for a consultation is an ear that sticks out, known as prominent ears, or a size that is out of proportion to the rest of the face.
Both adults and parents enquiring on behalf of a child seek consultations. The medical assessment reviews the shape and size of the ears, their development and the reason for seeking a consultation to determine whether surgery is appropriate.
What is assessed
What is assessed
during the consultation.
The doctor examines both ears from different angles and studies their relationship with the face. This assessment of the individual case determines the choice of technique. Dr. Suárez's training in otorhinolaryngology and facial plastic surgery underpins this assessment of the area.
The assessment also covers general health and medical history, and allows time to discuss risks and what to expect. When the consultation concerns a child, ear development forms part of the assessment.
Preparing for the initial consultationTwo different consultations
For a child
or in adulthood.
In both cases, the doctor examines both ears and their relationship to the face. A consultation for a child includes a preliminary question: whether the ear has developed sufficiently.
If the consultation is for an adolescent or adult
- Adolescents and adults are also candidates.
- People seek a consultation for an ear that sticks out or a size that is out of proportion with the rest of the face.
- The assessment covers general health and medical history.
How it is performed
The
procedure.
Surgery works on the ear cartilage through an incision behind the ear. Exactly what is done to the cartilage depends on what needs correcting and the anatomy of each ear.
An incision behind the ear is a common approach for prominent ears. Other changes in shape or size may require different techniques and scars.
Ears that stick out
The procedure repositions a prominent ear closer to the head. This is the most common reason for seeking a consultation.
Larger ears
When size is the concern, surgery can also reduce a large ear.
Where the scar is left
The incision is placed behind the ear, so the scar is concealed in that area. It fades over time.
Choosing the technique
The technique is chosen according to each ear's anatomy and the desired change.
After surgery
Care and
follow-up.
Recovery
Discomfort during the first few days is controlled with medication. Activity is limited while the area heals, and returning to swimming and contact sports happens later and gradually. How long this takes for each person depends on their recovery and the type of activity.
Risks and limitations
Pain, swelling, temporary numbness and scarring are part of the expected recovery. Reported complications include haematoma, infection, including infection of the cartilage, loss of symmetry between the ears and the possibility of them sticking out again. These are in addition to the general risks of any surgery.
These complications are very rare. During the consultation, following medical assessment, they are explained individually according to each patient's characteristics.
Before deciding
Frequently asked
questions.
The most common questions about ear surgery in children and adults.
What is otoplasty?
It is ear surgery. It can reposition a protruding ear closer to the head and, where appropriate, reduce the size of a large ear. The cartilage is treated through an incision behind the ear.
Can otoplasty be performed on babies?
While the ear is still developing, it is generally not recommended. However, in selected cases it can be performed safely from the age of 6 or 7. Each case must be assessed individually during a consultation.
Is otoplasty very painful?
Discomfort in the first few days is managed with medication and varies from person to person. What to expect during recovery is explained before surgery.
What are the risks of otoplasty?
Pain, swelling, temporary numbness and the scar are part of the expected recovery. Described complications include haematoma, infection, including cartilage infection, loss of symmetry between the ears and the possibility of them protruding again. These are in addition to the general risks of any surgery. These complications are very rare. During the consultation, following medical assessment, they are explained individually according to each patient's characteristics.
Is otoplasty covered by Spain's public health system?
Coverage depends on the clinical indication and the public health service's assessment. The common service portfolio excludes procedures performed for aesthetic purposes that are unrelated to an accident, illness or congenital malformation. Individual circumstances should be discussed within the public system.
Related procedures
Other procedures
in the same area.
Buccal fat removal
Removal of the buccal fat pad, the fat between the cheekbone and the jaw. It is not suitable for every face.
Lip lift
Surgery that shortens the skin between the nose and the upper lip and lifts the lip. It does not add volume.