Prominent Ears

Prominent ears are the most common congenital auricular deformity, characterised by an underdeveloped antihelical fold and a conchoscaphal angle exceeding 90 degrees, causing the ear to project more than 20 mm from the mastoid scalp. The condition affects approximately 5 per cent of the population and significantly impacts facial aesthetics and psychological well-being.

Understanding Prominent Ears

The external ear (auricle) has a complex three-dimensional architecture defined by the helical rim, the antihelix, the concha, the tragus, and the lobule. In a well-formed ear, the antihelical fold creates a natural ridge parallel to the helix, allowing the ear to sit close to the head while maintaining a natural contour. In the prominent ear, the antihelical fold is absent or underdeveloped — the antihelix is "unfolded" — so the cartilage of the concha extends directly to the helical rim without the mediating ridge, projecting the ear outward. Deeply set conchal bowl and overdeveloped conchal cartilage may also contribute to the prominence.

Otoplasty is performed to create the missing antihelical fold, reduce conchal projection, and position the ears closer to the head with natural contour. Turkish otoplasty surgeons perform high-volume ear correction surgery with consistent, natural results at a fraction of Western costs.

Treatment Options for Prominent Ears

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Otoplasty (Ear Pinning) in Turkey

Otoplasty is a cosmetic procedure that corrects prominent or protruding ears by reshaping the auricular cartilage through incisions concealed in the natural crease behind the ear. The surgeon weakens the cartilage's elastic memory with scoring or suture techniques so it retains the new, closer-to-head position permanently. The procedure can be performed on children from age 5 (once ear growth approaches adult dimensions) through adults of any age.

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Aesthetic Impact of Prominent Ears

Prominent ears do not impair hearing function but carry significant psychosocial consequences, particularly in children and adolescents. The ears are one of the most visible features of the face, and ears that project prominently draw attention away from the eyes and the centre of the face. Children with prominent ears are frequently subject to teasing and bullying, with documented impacts on self-esteem, social confidence, and school performance. Adults also seek correction for persistent self-consciousness and to improve facial harmony. The ideal ear position is when the helix sits within 15–20 mm of the mastoid scalp, the ear inclination is approximately 20 degrees posteriorly, and the ear contour is smooth with a distinct antihelical fold visible from the frontal view.

Treatment Options at Vellum Select

Otoplasty

Otoplasty in Turkey (ear pinning surgery) is performed through an incision hidden in the posterior sulcus (the crease behind the ear). The cartilage is sculpted to create a new antihelical fold using permanent sutures (Mustardé technique), the conchal bowl may be reduced or repositioned (Furnas technique), and the ear is set back to a natural position. The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia in children and sedation with local anaesthesia in adults. Recovery requires wearing a protective headband for two weeks, and most patients return to normal activities within one week.

To discuss prominent ear correction with a Vellum Select facial aesthetics specialist, contact us to arrange a consultation.