Otoplasty
Prominent or asymmetrical ears are one of the most common aesthetic concerns among both children and adults — and one of the most psychologically impactful. Otoplasty offers a lasting, precise solution, reshaping and repositioning the ears to sit in natural harmony with the rest of the face.
What is Otoplasty?
Otoplasty, commonly known as ear pinning or ear reshaping surgery, is a surgical procedure that corrects the size, shape, or position of the ears. It is most frequently performed to set prominent ears closer to the head, but it can also address ears that are unusually large, asymmetrical, or irregularly shaped due to genetics or prior injury. The procedure works by reshaping the cartilage framework of the ear, creating or enhancing the natural folds and contours that give the ear its structure, and securing it in a more balanced, proportionate position.
Is Otoplasty
RIGHT FOR YOU?
Otoplasty is one of the few cosmetic procedures suitable for both children and adults, and it consistently delivers some of the highest satisfaction rates in facial surgery. The following will help you determine whether it may be appropriate for you or your child.
Otoplasty is suitable for children aged five and older — once the ear cartilage has sufficiently matured — as well as teenagers and adults of any age. Good candidates are bothered by ears that protrude significantly from the head, appear asymmetrical, or have a shape they feel is out of proportion with their face. In adult patients, good general health, non-smoking status, and realistic expectations are important prerequisites. For younger patients, the procedure can be profoundly beneficial to self-esteem during formative years.
Prominent ears are almost always a structural matter — the result of an underdeveloped antihelical fold or an overly deep conchal bowl — rather than anything that can be addressed without surgery. Patients seek otoplasty because the concern, however it may appear to others, has a genuine and often long-standing impact on their confidence and self-image. For children in particular, early correction can prevent years of self-consciousness during a critical period of social and emotional development.
How it Works
Otoplasty is performed under general anaesthesia for younger patients and under local anaesthesia with sedation for adults, typically taking one to two hours to complete. It is a well-established, highly refined procedure with a very strong safety profile and predictable outcomes. Here is what the process looks like:
- Consultation and planning — Dr. Dyrmishi assesses the shape, position, and cartilage structure of both ears to understand the precise anatomical factors contributing to their appearance and to plan a symmetrical, natural-looking correction.
- The surgery — A small incision is made in the natural crease behind the ear, through which the cartilage is carefully reshaped, scored, or sutured to create the desired fold and position, bringing the ear closer to the head in a stable, lasting way.
- Immediate recovery — A soft bandage is worn around the head for the first week to protect the ears and support their new position; mild discomfort, swelling, and temporary numbness are normal and resolve within one to two weeks.
- Long-term results — Once fully healed at around six to eight weeks, results are permanent — the reshaped cartilage holds its new position reliably, and most patients describe the outcome as genuinely life-changing for their confidence.
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I visited Dr. Ervin Dyrmishi for ongoing nasal blockage and breathing difficulty. He explained everything clearly, performed a detailed examination, and helped me understand the right treatment options. I felt listened to and confident throughout the process.
My consultation was very professional from start to finish. Dr. Dyrmishi took the time to understand both my medical concerns and aesthetic goals. His approach felt careful, honest, and very personalized.
I came in for sinus problems that had been affecting me for a long time. Dr. Dyrmishi was thorough, calm, and very clear in explaining the diagnosis and next steps. The whole experience made me feel much more comfortable.
I was nervous before my facial procedure, but Dr. Dyrmishi explained the treatment plan in detail and answered all my questions. I appreciated his focus on natural results and making sure everything suited my face.
We brought our child for recurring ear and throat problems, and the consultation was excellent. Dr. Dyrmishi was patient, gentle, and explained everything in a way we could understand. We felt reassured and well guided.
Dr. Dyrmishi combines professionalism with a very human approach. He carefully reviewed my symptoms, explained the examination findings, and gave me a clear plan for treatment. I would highly recommend him.
Why Choose Dr. Ervin Dyrmishi?
Dr. Ervin Dyrmishi brings together a strong medical background, advanced ENT and head and neck surgery training, and a refined understanding of facial anatomy and aesthetics. He graduated magna cum laude with a joint medical degree from the University “Our Lady of Good Counsel” in Tirana and the University of Rome “Tor Vergata,” and has continued his professional development through international courses in aesthetic and functional septorhinoplasty, rhinology, otology, temporal bone surgery, and head and neck surgery.
His clinical experience includes ENT emergency care, microsurgery, surgical patient management, head and neck procedures, and daily diagnostic evaluation, giving patients a careful, structured, and well-rounded approach to both medical and aesthetic care.
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Faqs
Frequently Asked Questions
Otoplasty is generally recommended from the age of five onwards, once the ear cartilage has developed enough to be reshaped reliably and to hold its new structure long-term. Operating at this age also means that correction can take place before school years bring increased social awareness and potential for teasing. Dr. Dyrmishi will assess each child individually to confirm that the timing is appropriate before proceeding.
A protective bandage or headband is typically worn continuously for the first seven days following surgery, after which it is usually recommended to wear a softer headband at night for a further four to six weeks — particularly during sleep, when the ears can be inadvertently bent or compressed. This protects the sutures and supports the cartilage as it settles into its new position. Full instructions will be provided as part of your post-operative care.
No. Otoplasty works entirely on the outer ear — the visible cartilage and skin structure — and has no effect whatsoever on the ear canal, eardrum, or any of the structures responsible for hearing. The procedure is purely cosmetic and structural in nature, and patients can expect their hearing to be completely unaffected before and after surgery.
When performed correctly using appropriate suture techniques and cartilage reshaping, the results of otoplasty are permanent and stable. In rare cases, a suture may loosen or the cartilage may partially spring back during early healing — which is why following all post-operative care instructions, including consistent headband use, is essential. Should any revision be needed, Dr. Dyrmishi will assess and advise openly on the best course of action.
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