I don't have protruding ears anymore.

What is otoplasty and how does it correct prominent ears, technique and recovery. Surgery in Girona. Request a personalised, no-obligation consultation.

Facial cosmetic surgery · Girona

Otoplasty: How to correct prominent ears

Direct answer: the otoplasty it is the intervention that corrects protruding ears («sticking-out ears»), by repositioning and reshaping the cartilage. It lasts around 60 minutes, It is performed under local anaesthetic (in children under 12, sedation may be administered) and recovery for return to work is usually 3 to 5 days (approximately 7 in children). In children, it is assessed from the age of 7 years, when the development of the ear is completed. It is a surgical procedure that requires prior assessment.



Author Medical team of Medics Integral Salut



Reviewed by the Facial Cosmetic Surgery Unit

Updated: 30 June 2026

Reading time: 6 min

Having prominent ears can affect self-esteem in both adults and children. To correct this condition, there is an intervention we call Otoplasty in Girona. Below we explain what it consists of, what the procedure is like, what the post-operative period is, and from what age it can be considered.

What are prominent ears and how are they corrected?

So-called «prominent ears» are ears that stick out or are separated from the head more than usual, normally due to an increased angle or a poorly folded cartilage. Otoplasty works on this cartilage to reposition the ear and give it a more harmonious shape, with a discreet and natural result. The incision is usually made behind the ear, so the scar remains hidden.

Intervention data

AppearanceDetail
AnaesthesiaLocal in adults; in children under 12 years of age, it may be associated with sedation.
DurationApproximately 60 minutes
RegimeAmbulatory (same-day discharge)
RecoveryBetween 3 and 5 days for normal work life; in children, about 7 days
BandA ribbon or band (similar to a hair band) is worn for two or three days
ResultsAlmost immediate; visible after a few days of inflammation
Age in childrenFrom the age of 7, when the development of the ear concludes

Stages of the otoplasty post-operative period

Recovery is simple and progressive. These are the indicative phases, always according to your surgeon's instructions:

  1. The same day High after surgery (outpatient regime). A protective bandage or tape is applied.
  2. First 2-3 days: The strip or band is kept in place during the day, similar to a headband, to support and protect the ears. Some swelling and mild discomfort are common.
  3. 3 to 5 days (adults): return to normal working life. In children, rest is extended to about 7 days.
  4. First weeks: It is advisable to avoid blows, contact sports, and sleeping on the affected area; it is usually recommended to wear the band at night as indicated by the specialist.
  5. Result: visible almost immediately and settles as the swelling subsides in the following days and weeks.

Otoplasty can be performed on anyone who is unhappy with the appearance of their ears, and who is in good general health. It is often performed on children, but can also be done on adults.

Otoplasty is indicated for adults and children with protruding or asymmetrical ears who wish to correct them. Some considerations:

  • In children, is valued from the 7 years, when the ear has completed its development.
  • The decision for minors should not be based on parental insistence; it is important to observe the child and that they he who expresses his will to change.
  • In adults There is no relevant age limit, provided general good health.

Request a consultation to determine the most suitable surgical technique and potential outcomes for your case.

Sort out your case with the plastic surgeon

Personalised otoplasty assessments for adults and children, in Girona.

Related video

Otoplasty results: before and after Watch on our YouTube channel


Frequently asked questions

How long does an ear pinning operation take?
Otoplasty takes approximately 60 minutes and is performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning the patient is discharged the same day.
What anaesthetic is used?
En adultos se realiza con anestesia local. En menores de 12 años puede asociarse sedación para mayor comodidad. El cirujano determina la pauta según cada caso.
How long is the recovery?
In adults, return to normal work life is usually 3 to 5 days; in children, around 7 days. For the first 2-3 days, a protective ribbon or band is worn.
From what age can this be done for children?
A partir de los 7 años, que es cuando concluye el desarrollo de la oreja. Es importante que sea el propio niño quien exprese su deseo de corregirlas, y no una imposición de los padres.
Are there any visible scars?
La incisión se realiza habitualmente por detrás de la oreja, por lo que la cicatriz queda oculta y poco perceptible con el tiempo. El detalle se confirma en la valoración según la técnica empleada.
When will we see the results?
The results are almost immediate: they appear after a few days of inflammation and settle in as the area deflates over the following weeks.

Treatments and related units

Explore the treatments for Facial Cosmetic Surgery Unit and other areas of the clinic. Filter by area:





Otoplasty

Corrección de orejas despegadas en adultos y niños.

More information

Rhinoplasty

Cirugía de la nariz para armonizar forma y función.

More information

Eyelid surgery

Eyelid surgery to rejuvenate the eyes.

More information

Facelift

Facial rejuvenation for sagging and signs of ageing.

More information

Neck and double chin mini-lift

Mejora del contorno cervical y de la papada.

More information

Chin and cheekbones

Cirugía para definir el contorno de mentón y pómulos.

More information

Wrinkle filler

Ácido hialurónico para suavizar arrugas y dar volumen.

More information

Sagging: lifting threads

Non-surgical facial tensor effect.

More information

Lifting de cuello y papada (hombre)

Mejora del contorno cervical en el paciente masculino.

More information

Related articles

We serve patients from all over the province of Girona

Our clinic is located in the centre of Girona (Plaça Poeta Marquina, 3) and we regularly see patients from the city and the entire surrounding area and the Costa Brava. If you are coming from further afield, we coordinate appointments to group assessments and tests on the same day.

GironaSaltFigueresBlanesLloret de MarOlotBanyolesPalafrugellSant Feliu de GuíxolsRosesPalamósCosta Brava

Plaça Poeta Marquina, 3, 17002 Girona · easy access from the AP-7 and N-II · How to get there and opening times

Notice this content is Informative y no sustituye la consulta médica ni constituye un diagnóstico o indicación personalizada. La otoplastia es un procedimiento quirúrgico con indicaciones, contraindicaciones y posibles riesgos y complicaciones que el cirujano plástico evaluará en cada caso. Los plazos de recuperación son orientativos y pueden variar. Información elaborada conforme a la normativa de publicidad sanitaria.


No Comments

Sorry, the comment form is closed at this time.