Prominent Ear Correction in Riyadh: Otoplasty, Candidates, Recovery, and Risks | Dr. Bassas
By Dr. Abdulelah Faisal Bassas, Consultant Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon ·
Prominent ears can make some people feel self-conscious about their appearance, especially when the ears appear to project noticeably from the sides of the head. For some individuals, the concern begins during childhood; for others, it becomes more important later in life.
Otoplasty, commonly called prominent ear correction surgery, is a procedure designed to adjust the shape or position of the ears to improve their balance with the head and face.
In his Arabic-language book Al-Dalil fi Al-Tajmeel (الدليل في التجميل), Dr. Abdulelah Faisal Bassas discusses ear correction surgery, including prominent ears, suitable candidates, the surgical approach, postoperative care, and possible complications.
This article explains the main points from his chapter to help readers understand what the procedure involves and what questions to consider before seeking a consultation.
What Are Prominent Ears?
Prominent ears are ears that project outward from the head more noticeably than usual.
Dr. Bassas discusses this appearance in his book under the chapter on cosmetic ear surgery and correction of prominent ears, using the Arabic expression commonly translated as “bat ears.”
Prominent ears do not necessarily indicate a medical problem. The decision to seek correction is often related to appearance, personal comfort, and the desire for improved facial harmony.
The purpose of ear correction is to improve the ear's position and appearance while preserving a natural result—not to guarantee perfectly identical ears.
Who May Be a Good Candidate for Otoplasty?
Dr. Bassas explains that ear correction may be considered for both children and adults, depending on the individual's circumstances.
A consultation may be appropriate when someone:
Has one or both ears that project noticeably from the head.
Wishes to improve the ears' shape or position.
Understands the potential benefits and limitations of surgery.
Has realistic expectations about symmetry and the final appearance.
Can follow postoperative care instructions.
The book also discusses the importance of considering ear growth when deciding on the timing of surgery in children.
Suitability should be determined through an individual medical assessment rather than appearance alone.
How Is Prominent Ear Correction Surgery Performed?
In his discussion of prominent ear correction, Dr. Bassas describes a surgical approach that involves modifying the ear cartilage to improve its shape and position.
The chapter describes access through an incision behind the ear, allowing the surgeon to reshape or secure the cartilage as needed.
The exact technique may vary according to the ear's anatomy and the degree of prominence.
The book also addresses anesthesia considerations, which may differ between children and adults.
Otoplasty is not a single identical procedure for every patient. Surgical planning depends on the specific shape and position of the ears.
Will Otoplasty Leave a Visible Scar?
One common concern is whether the incision will leave a noticeable scar.
The approach described in Dr. Bassas's book places the incision behind the ear, where it may be less visible than an incision on the exposed front surface.
However, any surgical incision can leave a scar. The final appearance depends on individual healing and other clinical factors.
Patients should discuss the planned incision and realistic scar expectations with their surgeon before proceeding.
What Happens After Otoplasty?
Dr. Bassas's book discusses postoperative protection and the use of dressings following prominent ear correction.
Recovery may involve:
A dressing or protective bandage.
Temporary swelling or bruising.
Some discomfort or tenderness.
Care to avoid unnecessary pressure on the ears.
Follow-up appointments to assess healing.
The chapter emphasizes postoperative care as an important part of the procedure.
The duration of dressing use, activity restrictions, and recovery varies according to the operation and the surgeon's instructions.
Patients should follow their own treating clinician's guidance rather than relying on a general timeline.
Is Prominent Ear Correction Painful?
Some discomfort may occur after surgery, especially during the initial healing period.
The amount and duration of pain can differ between patients and procedures.
Pain management and wound-care instructions should be provided by the treating medical team, based on the patient's needs.
What Are the Possible Risks and Complications?
Like other surgical procedures, prominent ear correction has potential complications.
Important considerations include:
Bleeding or collection of blood.
Infection.
Wound-healing problems.
Unfavorable scarring.
Residual prominence or asymmetry.
Changes in the surgical result.
Possible need for additional assessment or corrective surgery.
No surgical procedure can guarantee perfect symmetry or a particular cosmetic outcome.
A consultation should include a discussion of the expected benefits, potential complications, and limitations of the planned technique.
Can Otoplasty Correct Only One Ear?
Some people have more noticeable prominence on one side than the other.
Whether one or both ears should be treated depends on their existing shape, position, and overall balance.
The aim is to improve natural symmetry, which does not always require performing exactly the same correction on both sides.
How Is Otoplasty Different From Other Facial Cosmetic Procedures?
Otoplasty focuses on the shape and position of the ears.
Other facial procedures address different concerns. For example, facelift surgery and when it may be recommended concerns facial tissue laxity and age-related changes rather than prominent ears.
The appropriate procedure depends on the particular feature the patient wishes to address.
Frequently Asked Questions About Prominent Ear Correction
Can children undergo otoplasty?
Dr. Bassas discusses prominent ear correction in children, with attention to ear growth and appropriate timing. The decision should follow an individual assessment and discussion with the child's family.
Can adults have prominent ear correction?
Yes. The book describes ear correction as a procedure that may be considered for children or adults, depending on their circumstances.
Is the incision made behind the ear?
The surgical approach described in the book uses an incision behind the ear to access and adjust the cartilage.
Will my ears look exactly the same after surgery?
Not necessarily. Natural ears are not perfectly identical, and the final result depends on anatomy, surgical technique, and healing.
Will I need to wear a bandage after surgery?
The book discusses dressings to protect the ears during recovery. The exact instructions and duration are determined by the treating surgeon.
Can the ears become prominent again?
Residual prominence or changes in the result are possible. This should be discussed during the preoperative consultation.
Does otoplasty change hearing?
The prominent ear correction procedure described in the book focuses on the external ear's shape and position. It should not be presented as a treatment for hearing problems.
Conclusion: Is Otoplasty Right for You?
In Al-Dalil fi Al-Tajmeel, Dr. Abdulelah Faisal Bassas discusses prominent ear correction as a surgical option for improving the shape and position of the ears.
His chapter highlights the importance of choosing suitable candidates, understanding the surgical approach, and following appropriate postoperative care.
The best starting point is an informed consultation that considers the patient's anatomy, expectations, potential benefits, and risks.
Readers interested in discussing prominent ear correction may contact Dr. Abdulelah Faisal Bassas to inquire about consultations and currently available services.
Book reference: Dr. Abdulelah Faisal Bassas, الدليل في التجميل (Al-Dalil fi Al-Tajmeel), chapter “عمليات تجميل الأذن (وتصحيح الأذن الخفاشية),” printed pages 10–11.
This article summarizes the author's published educational material. It is not a current clinical guideline or a substitute for individualized medical advice.