EAR SURGERY
Ear surgery includes a range of procedures aimed at improving the shape and overall appearance of the ears. These can involve repositioning prominent or protruding ears to a more natural position, reshaping the ear for a balanced look, reducing large ears or earlobes, and repairing a split earlobe.
In the case of ear reshaping surgery (otoplasty), which is the most common procedure, the evaluation is based on the appearance and position of the ears, as well as the amount of skin and cartilage that may need to be adjusted.
“Although protruding ears do not affect hearing or function, they can cause considerable emotional discomfort from an aesthetic standpoint at any age.”
The issue is often caused by a malformation of the ear cartilage. When the ear lacks a fold called the antihelix, it does not curve inward like a natural ear but instead remains straight and protruding.
A split earlobe, on the other hand, occurs as a result of tears, injuries, trauma, or the prolonged use of heavy earrings.
UNDERSTANDING THE PROCEDURE
Ear surgery involves the removal of skin and a portion of cartilage in the affected area through incisions hidden behind the natural fold of the ear. I then reshape and define the ear using permanent internal sutures.
There are many effective techniques that ensure long-lasting results. Over the years, I have increasingly adapted my surgical approach to the needs of each case, considering factors such as the shape and size of the ears in relation to the face and the desired outcome, always aiming to meet your expectations as accurately as possible.
I believe that ear surgery is not just about bringing your ears closer to the head, but also about creating a harmonious and proportionate shape.
“Correcting a split earlobe, on the other hand, allows me to restore the continuity of the earlobe through a minimally invasive surgical procedure.”
FOR A MORE CONSCIOUS CHOICE
Ear surgery can be performed at any age, including in children, once the ear has fully developed, which usually occurs around age 6-7. Each case is carefully evaluated to assess the issue and the potential benefits of surgery, helping young patients avoid the psychological stress of teasing from classmates. Most of our patients, regardless of gender, are between 20 and 40 years old. In some cases, the issue affects only one ear, leading to noticeable asymmetry. Patients with split earlobes vary widely in age. Some come to us to correct acute problems caused by injuries or trauma, but more often they seek treatment for tissue damage that has developed over time due to heavy earrings or the natural aging process.
Patients often consider surgery due to the emotional distress caused by dissatisfaction with the shape or appearance of their ears. If you struggle to look in the mirror without noticing prominent ears, or feel compelled to style your hair to hide them out of concern for others’ judgment, it may be time to explore the best solution together. Even in school-aged children, there are often noticeable feelings of embarrassment and self-consciousness when appearing in public or interacting socially. In these cases, Dr. Elisa Bolletta will have a thorough discussion with both the young patient and their parents to determine whether it is the right time to proceed.
Your overall health plays a key role in the success of the procedure, including factors like your lifestyle and daily activities. Typically, it takes about 2 weeks to return to your normal routine and about 4-6 weeks to resume more active pursuits, including sports.
The results of ear surgery are long-lasting and reliable. In the first few days, you may experience some discomfort and swelling, which usually eases within about a week. After the stitches are removed, typically around 2 weeks post-surgery, we recommend wearing a supportive headband day and night for 1 month to keep the reshaped cartilage in place and prevent unintentional pressure or creasing, especially during sleep. In the first few months after surgery, internal sutures help maintain the new ear shape while gradually allowing your natural healing process to take over. Scarring is typically minimal and virtually invisible, and we provide guidance on proper care, including gentle massage and the use of targeted regenerative products. For split earlobe correction, recovery is even faster. You can typically return to your daily activities after 2 weeks, and by 3 months post-surgery, it is generally possible to repierce the earlobe and resume wearing earrings.
Ear surgery is performed as an outpatient or day procedure. On the day of the procedure, you will be welcomed at the clinic, and local anesthesia will be administered, sometimes combined with light sedation. Dr. Elisa Bolletta, the lead surgeon, will make discreet incisions behind the ears to reshape the cartilage and reduce any excess skin. In cases of split earlobes, a small incision is made to restore the continuity of the lobe.
The duration of the procedure varies depending on the type of surgery. On average, 60–90 minutes for bilateral ear surgery, and approximately 20–30 minutes for split earlobe correction.
You will not feel any pain during the procedure thanks to local anesthesia. In the hours following surgery, you may experience mild discomfort or tension, which can be managed with standard pain medication.
Swelling and minor bruising are common in the first few days. Generally, light activities can be resumed within a few days, though sports or other activities that involve impact on the ears should be avoided for several weeks. A compression dressing is worn during the initial days to ensure stability.
It is important to protect the ears from any impact, avoid glasses that put pressure on the treated areas, and carefully follow all hygiene and wound-care instructions. The scar remains discreetly hidden in the natural crease behind the ear and usually stabilizes within a few weeks.
Potential risks include swelling, bruising, infection, asymmetry, temporary changes in sensation, and, in rare cases, visible scarring. Selecting the most suitable technique and adhering to proper post-operative care greatly minimizes these risks.
Follow-up appointments are scheduled in the days after surgery to adjust or remove dressings, monitor healing, and review the aesthetic outcome. Additional visits, after a few months and again one year after the procedure, assess the quality of the scar as well as the shape and long-term stability of the ears.
The team includes Dr. Elisa Bolletta as the lead surgeon, the anesthesiologist if light sedation is required, and nursing staff, all committed to ensuring safety, comfort, and meticulous attention to detail during and after the procedure.
