Dr Axel De LangePlastic Surgeon
A consultation room at the clinic, with a treatment chair beside a curtained window

Otoplasty

Otoplasty in Brussels · Dr Axel De Lange

Otoplasty restores balance between the ears and the face through a personalised, discreet and lasting correction.

Otoplasty is a surgical procedure designed to correct abnormalities in the shape or position of the outer ears, mainly prominent ears.

Prominent ears usually result from insufficient folding of the antihelix, an enlarged concha, or a combination of these two anatomical features.

The procedure involves reshaping the ear cartilage to recreate the natural contours of the ear and reduce its projection from the skull, without altering its anatomical identity.

The goalTo correct prominent ears and restore natural harmony between the outer ears and the face.

Otoplasty is intended for children, adolescents and adults with prominent ears or asymmetrically positioned outer ears.

In children, the procedure can usually be considered from the age of 6 to 7, when growth of the outer ear is sufficiently advanced and the child expresses the wish for correction themselves.

In adolescents and adults, it can be performed at any age, provided the patient is in good general health and has realistic expectations regarding the results.

To correct an anatomical feature that can sometimes cause aesthetic or psychological discomfort, while respecting the natural shape of the ears.

Medically reviewed by Dr Axel De Lange · Last reviewed

Your journey,
step by step.

The techniques

Reconstruction of the antihelical fold

Creating or accentuating the natural contour of the antihelix when it is insufficiently defined.

The techniques

Correction of conchal hypertrophy

Repositioning or reduction of the conchal cartilage to reduce the projection of the ear.

The techniques

Combined otoplasty

A combination of the different cartilage-reshaping techniques to correct several anatomical abnormalities.

The techniques

Correction of prominent earlobes

Repositioning of the earlobes when they remain too prominent after correction of the outer ear.

The techniques

Unilateral otoplasty

Correction of a single ear when there is significant asymmetry.

The techniques

Secondary otoplasty

Revision surgery to correct asymmetry, recurrence or persistent deformity after a first procedure.

Step 01

First consultation

This first meeting is used to analyse precisely the shape, size, position and symmetry of your ears.

A clinical examination identifies the different components of the protrusion, notably the shape of the antihelix, the development of the concha and the position of the earlobes.

We discuss your expectations, the options for correction and the anatomical limits of the procedure. In children, particular attention is paid to their personal motivation and their understanding of the surgical plan.

To define a personalised correction, adapted to the anatomy of each ear and respectful of the harmony of the face.

Step 02

2nd consultation

This consultation confirms the surgical plan and clarifies the cartilage-reshaping techniques being considered.

The placement of the scars, the type of anaesthesia, the risks and the post-operative course are explained in detail.

Particular attention is paid to the desired symmetry, the final position of the ears and the need to preserve a natural appearance, without overcorrection.

To allow you to approach the procedure calmly, with a clear understanding of how it will unfold and the expected results.

Step 03 · The procedure

Anaesthesia

Local, possibly combined with sedation, or general, particularly in children.

Step 03 · The procedure

Duration

Usually between 1 and 2 hours, depending on the corrections required.

Step 03 · The procedure

Setting

Procedure performed in the operating theatre, most often as a day case.

Step 03 · The procedure

Technique

Reshaping of the ear cartilage through incisions usually hidden in the crease behind the ear. Internal sutures are used to recreate the antihelical fold and to reposition the concha when necessary.

Step 03 · The procedure

Recovery

Return to school or work is usually possible after 7 to 10 days, with the ears protected and sports carrying a risk of injury temporarily avoided.

Step 04 · Follow-up

The first days

A protective dressing holds the ears in their new position. Swelling, bruising and local tenderness are usual. A feeling of tightness or numbness may also be experienced.

Step 04 · Follow-up

The first few weeks

The initial dressing is replaced according to the post-operative protocol. Wearing a protective headband, particularly at night, is usually recommended for several weeks. Return to school or work is usually possible after 7 to 10 days.

Step 04 · Follow-up

After 1 to 2 months

The oedema gradually subsides and the ears regain their suppleness. Sport can be resumed gradually, while contact sports should be avoided for longer.

Step 04 · Follow-up

After 3 to 6 months

The tissues soften, the scars fade and the shape of the ears gradually stabilises.

Step 04 · Follow-up

After 6 to 12 months

The final result can be assessed, with complete maturation of the scars. The correction is usually lasting, although partial recurrence or slight asymmetry remain possible.

Common question

From what age is this procedure possible?

The ear cartilage is generally sufficiently developed by around the age of 6, which means prominent ears can be treated before your child starts school, if you wish.

Common question

Will the scars be visible?

The incisions are placed behind the ear, so the scars are very well hidden.

Common question

Is the correction permanent?

Yes, the results are generally permanent once healing is complete.

Common question

How long is the recovery?

Most patients, children included, return to school or work after about a week, while avoiding contact sports for several more weeks.

Consultation locations

Consultations are booked directly through each clinic's own platform. Appointments are not taken by phone.

See the locations

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