Face · Gurugram
Otoplasty
One of the few procedures routinely performed in children, and one where the result is usually stable for life.
01 · Understanding the concern
Why patients consider this
Prominent ears are a structural variation rather than a deformity, but they can attract attention at school and shape how a child feels about photographs and haircuts. Adults often present having thought about it for decades. The anatomy is usually a missing or underdeveloped antihelical fold, an over-projecting concha, or both.
02 · The procedure
What otoplasty involves
Otoplasty reshapes the cartilage of the ear through an incision behind the ear. Techniques include suturing the cartilage to create or strengthen the antihelical fold, reducing or setting back the conchal bowl, and occasionally scoring the cartilage to help it bend. The aim is a natural ear position and contour, not ears flattened against the head.
03 · Candidacy
Who may be considered
This is general guidance rather than a diagnosis. Suitability is decided by examination.
- Ear cartilage sufficiently developed, usually from around school age
- Prominent or asymmetric ears
- Adults who have wanted correction for years
- Children who are themselves bothered by it, rather than only their parents
- General health suitable for the anaesthetic planned
What it can address
Concerns it is used for
- Ear prominence
- Absent or weak antihelical fold
- Conchal bowl excess
- Asymmetry between the two ears
- Some earlobe positions
04 · Planning
Why the planning matters more than the technique
Both ears are assessed together even where only one appears prominent, since symmetry is judged as a pair. Over-correction that pins ears flat looks as noticeable as prominence, so the target is a natural contour with a visible helical rim from the front.
05 · How it works
Step by step
- 01
Assessment
Measurement of projection and analysis of cartilage anatomy on both sides.
- 02
Planning
Which techniques are needed for the specific anatomy.
- 03
Access
Incision made behind the ear.
- 04
Cartilage reshaping
Fold created or strengthened, conchal set-back performed where needed.
- 05
Closure
Layered closure behind the ear.
- 06
Head dressing
Supportive dressing applied, followed by a headband for the period advised.
06 · The procedure journey
Before, during and after
Before
Assessment of the child or adult, investigations where relevant, and discussion with the child themselves where appropriate.
During
Local anaesthetic with or without sedation for adults; general anaesthetic is common for children.
After
A supportive head dressing for several days, then a headband particularly at night for the period advised.
07 · Recovery
What recovery generally involves
Discomfort is generally manageable and settles within days. Children commonly return to school within about a week, avoiding contact sport for longer. A headband at night is worn for some weeks to protect the correction while healing.
Recovery times are general ranges. Your own timeline depends on the extent of treatment, your health and your work, and is given at consultation.
- Wear the headband as instructed, particularly at night
- No contact sport for the period specified
- Avoid pulling clothing over the ears
- Keep the incision dry until cleared
- Attend scheduled reviews
08 · Outcomes
What to expect from the result
A more natural ear position, usually stable long term. Minor asymmetry between ears is normal and remains so. Results vary and are not guaranteed.
09 · Safety
Risks and considerations
Risks include haematoma, infection of the cartilage, recurrence of prominence, suture extrusion, asymmetry, and scarring behind the ear including keloid formation in predisposed individuals.
No procedure is risk-free. A full, individual discussion of risk forms part of consent and takes place before any decision is made.
10 · The surgeon
Why Dr. Swikriti Raniwala
The surgeon who assesses you performs the procedure and reviews you afterwards. Surgical work takes place in accredited surgical facilities with board-certified anaesthesiologists, and you leave the consultation with the plan and the costs in writing.
In Gurugram
Otoplasty is performed at SWI Infinity in Gurugram, with patients travelling from across Gurugram and Delhi NCR, including Golf Course Road, Sushant Lok, the DLF Phases and the surrounding sectors. If you are travelling from further afield, say so when booking so consultation and follow-up can be scheduled together.
Dr. Swikriti Raniwala
Questions patients ask
Otoplasty: common questions
What age can a child have otoplasty?
Generally once the ear is close to adult size and the child is old enough to cooperate with dressings. Timing is discussed individually.
Is it done under general anaesthetic?
For children, usually yes. Adults are often treated under local anaesthetic with or without sedation.
Will the ears look pinned back?
That is what the planning is designed to avoid. The target is a natural contour with the helical rim still visible from the front.
Can prominence come back?
Partial recurrence is possible, which is why the headband period matters during healing.
Is there a visible scar?
The incision sits behind the ear and is generally not visible.
How long off school or work?
Commonly about a week, with contact sport avoided for longer.
Consultation
Discuss otoplasty
Consultations are with Dr. Raniwala. You will leave with a written plan, including the alternatives considered and the costs involved.
Or WhatsApp the clinic on +91 7017193675 · info@swiinfinity.com
