A surgery done to correct ear abnormalities. Ears that are too large, stick out, misshapen or uneven can be improved relatively easily to be in proportion with the rest of the face. Besides protruding ears, there are a variety of other ear problems that can be helped with surgery. These include: "lop ear," when the tip seems to fold down and forward; "cupped ear," which is usually a very small ear; and "shell ear," when the curve in the outer rim, as well as the natural folds and creases, are missing. Surgery can also improve large or stretched earlobes, or lobes with large creases and wrinkles.

For optimum results, the operation is done on children between the ages of 4 - 14. Ears are almost fully grown by age 4, and the earlier the surgery, the less teasing the child will endure. Ear surgery on adults is also possible, and there are generally no additional risks associated with ear surgery on older patients.

Ear surgery takes approximately two hours. Complicated procedures may take longer. Depending on the problem, the technique and length of surgery may vary. Usually, a small incision in the back of the ear to expose the ear cartilage is made. It will then be sculpted and bent back toward the head. Non-removable stitches may be used to help maintain the new shape. Occasionally, a larger piece of cartilage will be removed to provide a natural-looking fold when the surgery is complete.

Another technique involves a similar incision in the back of the ear. Skin is removed and stitches are used to fold the cartilage back on itself to reshape the ear without removing cartilage.

Ear surgery may leave a faint scar in the back of the ear that will fade with time. Even when only one ear appears to protrude, surgery is usually performed on both ears for a better balance. Most patients, young and old alike, are thrilled with the results of ear surgery.