What is ear surgery (otoplasty)?
Ears usually look prominent for one of two reasons: the natural fold in the cartilage (the antihelical fold) is under-developed, or the bowl of the ear (the concha) is deep and pushes the ear outward. Often it is a mix of both, and the two sides can differ.
Otoplasty corrects the cause. Through a short incision behind the ear, the cartilage is reshaped and held with permanent stitches so the ear sits closer to the head while keeping its natural curves. Simpler problems — a torn piercing, a stretched lobe from heavy earrings, or an earlobe pulled down after a facelift — are repaired under local anaesthesia in a shorter procedure.
Who is a good candidate for ear surgery?
- Prominent ears that stand out noticeably from the head.
- Asymmetric ears where one sits further out or higher than the other.
- Torn or stretched earlobes from piercings or gauges.
- Earlobe changes after a facelift, such as a pulled-down lobe.
- Adults in good health who can wear a protective headband after surgery.
Ear surgery is often done on its own, but it can be combined with other facial procedures; see the full face procedures list.
Otoplasty vs earlobe repair vs ear reduction
| Otoplasty (setback) | Earlobe repair | Ear reduction | |
| Treats | Ears that stick out | Torn or stretched lobes | Large ears |
| Incision | Behind the ear | On the lobe | Along the rim or behind |
| Anaesthesia | Local ± sedation | Local | Local ± sedation |
| Downtime | About 1–2 weeks | A few days | About 1–2 weeks |
| Re-piercing | — | After about 3 months | — |
How is otoplasty performed?
What is recovery like after ear surgery?
| Day 1–3 | Head dressing on; ears feel sore and swollen. Sleep on your back. |
|---|---|
| Day 7–10 | Stitches removed; a headband is worn day and night for about a week. |
| Week 2–6 | Headband at night to protect the new shape; avoid contact sports. |
| Month 3 | Swelling settled; ear position and scar mature. |
The clinic's hyperbaric oxygen chamber may be used to support early recovery.
“Ears should look settled, not glued back. If people notice your ears less, the job is done.”
Dr. Lee Yoo-jung · Chief DirectorWhat are the risks of otoplasty?
Possible risks include bleeding under the skin (haematoma), infection, numbness of the ear, visible or raised scars behind the ear, slight asymmetry, and partial return of prominence if a stitch loosens. Over-correction can make ears look pinned or unnatural, so the setback is planned conservatively. Stitches can occasionally become palpable and need removal.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the scar?
In the crease behind the ear, where it is very hard to see once healed. Earlobe repairs leave a fine line on the lobe.
Is otoplasty permanent?
Yes, in most patients. A small degree of relapse can happen, usually in the first months.
Is it done under general anaesthesia?
Adults are usually treated under local anaesthesia, with sedation if preferred.
Can I re-pierce my ears after earlobe repair?
Yes, usually after about three months, in a spot slightly away from the scar.
How long should I stay in Seoul?
About 7–10 days so stitches can be removed and the shape checked.
How do I book?
Send photos of your ears from the front and back on WhatsApp for a free consultation with Dr. Lee.