What Is Otoplasty?
Otoplasty, also known as ear reshaping surgery, is a reconstructive or cosmetic procedure that changes the ears' size, shape, or position. It is done to correct:
-
Protruding ears that stick out prominently from the head.
-
Asymmetrical ears where one ear is bigger or positioned differently.
-
Congenital deformities present from birth.
-
Trauma-related injuries affecting ear shape.
-
Misshapen ears due to various causes.
-
Macrotia (oversized ears).
-
Previous unsuccessful surgeries requiring revision.
This ear correction procedure addresses various types of ear deformity, significantly impacting individuals' quality of life and self-confidence.
Adults and children have ear reshaping surgery in Turkey to boost their self-confidence and facial balance. Research shows that 90.6% of parents report their children's quality of life improved after the procedure.
![faq image]()
Types and Techniques of Ear Correction Surgery
Turkey's 420 verified clinics offer various ear surgery techniques, from traditional surgical methods to modern minimally invasive approaches.
| Type of procedure |
What it fixes |
Best for |
| Ear pinning (setback otoplasty) |
Brings protruding ears closer to the head. Helps avoid psychological distress in children. |
Adults & children over 5. |
| Ear reduction surgery |
Reduces the size of large ears (macrotia). Improves ear shape, size, and symmetry. |
People with oversized ears. |
| Ear reconstruction |
Corrects congenital deformities or trauma-related injuries. |
Birth defects, accidents. |
| Incisionless otoplasty |
Reshapes ear cartilage without visible scars using small punctures. |
Mild ear protrusion. |
| Revision otoplasty |
Corrects unsatisfactory results from previous surgery. |
Patients needing corrections. |
Otoplasty typically involves a 1–2cm incision placed in the natural fold behind the ear, making scars virtually invisible. The Mustardé technique uses permanent sutures to form a natural-looking inner fold, achieving 97% patient satisfaction with only 1.7% revision rate. Incisionless techniques reshape cartilage through small punctures, offering 94% satisfaction rates with 4% complication rates and 45-minute average procedure time. Modern cartilage-sparing approaches demonstrate superior safety with only 1.1% revision rates while maintaining natural ear appearance.
Comparison with Other Procedures
Ear reshaping surgery is often compared to non-surgical ear reshaping, but only surgical correction provides permanent structural results.
| Procedure |
Invasiveness |
Results |
Recovery time |
| Otoplasty surgery |
Moderate |
Permanent |
1–2 weeks |
| Ear fillers (non-surgical) |
None |
Temporary (6–12 months) |
Immediate |
| Earlobe repair |
Low |
Permanent |
1 week |
Ear pinning surgery is the most effective solution for protruding or asymmetrical ears, serving both cosmetic and functional purposes using reconstructive surgery techniques.
Who Is a Candidate for Otoplasty in Turkey?
![faq image]()
Ear reshaping surgery is an excellent option for those who want to reshape or reposition their ears.
Best candidates include:
- Individuals with prominent, asymmetrical, or oversized ears.
- Children over 5 years old and adults wanting long-term correction.
- Those in good health with realistic expectations.
The procedure may not be suitable for:
- People with ongoing ear infections or medical conditions that affect healing.
- Patients with severe bleeding disorders.
- Those expecting instant perfection (some natural asymmetry remains).
A consultation with experienced ear surgery surgeons in Turkey determines suitability. Leading specialists include Dr. Ergin Er at Istanbul Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Center (award-winning surgeon with 10,000+ procedures) and Dr. Murat Yaman at Lokman Hekim Istanbul Hospital.
How Is Otoplasty Surgery Performed?
| Step |
What happens? |
| Consultation |
The surgeon evaluates ear structure & discusses goals. |
| Anesthesia |
Local or general anesthesia ensures a painless procedure. |
| Incision & reshaping |
Cartilage is reshaped, reduced, or repositioned through precise techniques. |
| Closure & bandaging |
Stitches secure the new shape, and bandages protect healing ears. |
Surgery duration: 1–2 hours per ear, with same-day discharge in most cases.
Recovery and Rehabilitation After Ear Surgery
Recovery from ear reshaping surgery in Turkey is straightforward with proper care and guidance.
Recovery timeline:
| Day |
Procedure & Recovery Plan |
| Day 1 |
Arrival in Istanbul, airport pickup, consultation & pre-op medical tests. |
| Day 2 |
Ear surgery under general/local anesthesia, 1-night hospital stay if required. |
| Day 3 |
Discharge from the clinic, recovery begins. |
| Day 4-5 |
Follow-up checkups, recovery at hotel. |
| Day 6-7 |
Final consultation & clearance for travel. |
Detailed recovery timeline:
- Days 1–2: Mild discomfort and swelling expected. Wear protective headband continuously. Pain manageable with prescribed medication.
- Days 3–7: Swelling peaks around day 3–4, then gradually decreases. Initial bandages may be removed and replaced with lighter headband.
- Week 2: Most initial swelling and bruising resolved. Return to work possible for desk jobs. Continue wearing headband at night.
- Weeks 3–4: Resume light activities. Avoid contact sports and strenuous exercise.
- Weeks 4–6: Complete healing of incisions. Can resume all normal activities including exercise.
- 3–6 months: Final results fully visible as tissues settle completely. Most patients achieve their final aesthetic outcome within this timeframe.
Best post-op care tips:
-
Sleep with your head elevated to reduce swelling.
-
Wear a protective headband as directed for optimal healing.
-
Avoid strenuous activities for 4–6 weeks.
Is Otoplasty Surgery in Turkey Safe?
Ear reshaping surgery in Turkey demonstrates excellent safety profiles when performed by qualified surgeons in accredited facilities.
According to a comprehensive literature review of 20 studies, early complications occur in 0–8.4% of otoplasty cases, while late complications range from 0–47.3%. However, higher complication rates don't necessarily correlate with revision needs. Modern techniques show exceptional safety — the cartilage-sparing, suture-based technique demonstrates a low 1.1% revision rate with minimal complications.
Common side effects:
Rare complications:
-
Infection (preventable with proper care).
-
Asymmetry that may require revision surgery.
-
Cartilage shifting over time.
Choosing verified ear surgery clinics minimizes risks. Bookimed works with top-rated facilities such as Quartz Hospital (4.7/5, Istanbul), Lokman Hekim Istanbul Hospital (4.8/5, Istanbul), and Istanbul Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Center (4.8/5, Istanbul).
A Turkish patient who received treatment at Quartz Hospital shared: "Quartz Clinic: a modern clinic with good service, friendly staff and doctors." This reflects the high standards maintained by verified Turkish medical facilities.
Results: When to Expect the Effect?
Patients can expect immediate improvement in ear position, though final results become fully apparent in 3–6 months as tissues settle completely.
Results are permanent and last a lifetime unless affected by trauma. Some patients may require revision surgery if cartilage shifts or results are unsatisfactory, though this occurs in less than 2% of cases with modern techniques.
A Canadian patient treated by Dr. Leyla Arvas at Quartz Hospital shared: "Dr. Leyla was excellent. She gave me fabulous results," demonstrating the quality outcomes achievable in Turkey.
Why Get Otoplasty in Turkey?
![faq image]()
Thanks to competitive pricing ($2,340–$3,200), skilled surgeons, and 420 verified clinics, Turkey has become a leading destination for ear reshaping surgery. Top-rated facilities like Quartz Hospital (4.7/5), Lokman Hekim Istanbul Hospital (4.8/5), and Istanbul Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Center (4.8/5) have served over 521,220 otoplasty requests through Bookimed.
- Save up to 70% with procedure costs ranging from $2,340–$3,200 compared to $4,000–$7,000 in the US.
- Expert surgeons with ISAPS, EBOPRAS, and TSPRAS certifications, including Dr. Ergin Er (10,000+ procedures), Dr. Murat Yaman (facial procedures specialist), and Dr. Hasan Sahin (12,000+ operations).
- World-class hospitals, many JCI-accredited for international standards.
- All-inclusive packages with hotel stays, VIP transfers, and post-op care.
- Easy travel with visa-free entry or a quick e-visa.
- Recover in a beautiful destination—enjoy Turkey's sights, food, and culture.
According to official medical tourism statistics, Turkey welcomed 1.5 million health tourists in 2024, generating $3 billion in revenue and establishing its position as a leading medical tourism destination.
Surgeon Certification Standards in Turkey
When choosing an otoplasty surgeon in Turkey, verify these essential certifications:
Required Certifications:
- TSPRAS membership (Turkish Society of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons) - verify at plastikcerrahi.org.tr.
- Turkish board certification — request to see certificate.
- Minimum 5 years practice experience in plastic surgery.
Preferred International Certifications:
- EBOPRAS (European Board of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery).
- ISAPS membership (International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery).
- FEBOPRAS (Fellow of European Board certification).
These certifications ensure surgeons meet international safety and quality standards. Always verify surgeon credentials through official databases before proceeding.
Preparing for a Trip to Turkey for Otoplasty
Here's a guide to help you plan your trip smoothly.
Visa & stay:
Payment & currency:
-
Clinics accept Turkish Lira, Euros, and USD.
-
Credit cards & bank transfers are widely accepted.
How Much Is Otoplasty For Both Ears In Turkey?
Ear reshaping surgery in Turkey offers exceptional value, ranging from $2,340 to $3,200. Patients can save up to 70% compared to US prices, making it an ideal destination for those seeking affordable cosmetic procedures.
For example, if a patient opts for ear pinning surgery at $2,800, they save $4,200 compared to the upper price range in the United States and $1,600 compared to the UK.
| Country |
Cost Range |
Savings in Turkey |
| Turkey |
$2,340 – $3,200 |
|
| United States |
$4,000 – $7,000 |
Up to $4,800 (50–70%) |
| United Kingdom |
$3,100 – $4,400 |
Up to $2,060 (40–60%) |
| Canada |
$2,500 – $5,000 |
Up to $2,660 (40–55%) |
| Australia |
$3,000 – $6,000 |
Up to $3,660 (45–60%) |
💚 Transparent pricing with Bookimed: Patients pay directly at the clinic with no hidden fees—official price lists only.
How much is otoplasty for one ear?
A single ear correction costs 30–50% less than a bilateral procedure, typically ranging from $1,400 to $2,000.
What's Included in Otoplasty Packages?
![faq image]()
Most ear surgery packages in Turkey offer a comprehensive medical journey, covering everything from consultations to aftercare.
| Included Services |
Additional Services (Varies by Clinic) |
| Consultation with a board-certified surgeon. |
Bundled procedures (rhinoplasty, facelift, hair transplant, etc.). |
| Preoperative tests (blood tests, ECG, chest X-ray if needed). |
Luxury accommodation upgrades. |
| General/local anesthesia. |
PRP therapy for faster healing. |
| Ear reshaping surgery (ear pinning, reshaping, or reduction). |
Post-op lymphatic drainage massages. |
| Hospital stay (1–2 nights, depending on the clinic). |
Personalized compression garments. |
| Postoperative medication & aftercare. |
Tourism add-ons (sightseeing, cultural tours). |
| VIP airport-clinic-hotel transfers. |
|
Some clinics also offer combined procedures, such as ear surgery + hair transplant or the procedure + rhinoplasty at discounted rates.
References
-
Songu M., Kutlu A. Long-term psychosocial impact of otoplasty performed on children with prominent ears. The Journal of Laryngology & Otology. 2014. Vol. 128, no. 9. P. 768–771. URL: https://doi.org/10.1017/s0022215114001662 (date of access: 23.12.2025).
-
Comparison of two incisionless otoplasty techniques for prominent ears in children / S. Haytoglu et al. International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology. 2015. Vol. 79, no. 4. P. 504–510. URL: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijporl.2015.01.014 (date of access: 23.12.2025).
-
Cartilage-Sparing Otoplasty – A New Approach / M. Benkler et al. Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery. 2023. Publish Ahead of Print. URL: https://doi.org/10.1097/prs.0000000000010401 (date of access: 23.12.2025).