- Oberhöchstadter Str. 8, 61440 Oberursel
- 06171 591 91
- Am Salzhaus 6, 60311 Frankfurt am Main
- 069 920 380 90
Ear correction surgery (otoplasty) brings protruding ears closer to the head and reshapes the ear cartilage harmoniously. The procedure can be performed under local anesthesia and is commonly performed on children as young as preschool age.
Whether a correction is advisable depends on the condition of the cartilage: In the case of protruding ears, the antihelix fold is usually missing, or the auricle is enlarged. Both issues can be addressed in a single procedure, on one or both sides. For children, the procedure is often scheduled before they start school because ear growth is largely complete by then; the procedure is not medically necessary. Afterward, a headband is worn for a period of time to hold the ears in their new position. Consultations take place in Frankfurt, and the procedure is performed in Oberursel.
Advantages · Who is it for? · Procedure · Aftercare Timeline · Risks · Costs · Alternatives · Team · FAQ · Date
Maybe you know the feeling: Ever since you were a child, you’ve styled your hair in a way that draws as little attention to your ears as possible. Hats in the summer, certain hairstyles, a certain angle in photos. What others hardly notice is something that preoccupies you every day—quietly, but constantly.
“I’ve worn my hair down my whole life, even though I would have preferred to put it up. After the surgery, I tied my hair back in a ponytail for the first time and just cried—out of relief.”—This is how one of our patients describes how she felt after the treatment.
This procedure isn't about conforming to some ideal of beauty. It's about getting rid of that one thought that has been popping into my head over and over again for years. It's about freedom—at the hair salon, in photos, and in everyday life.
We’ll guide you along this journey—with experience, tact, and the goal of achieving a result that looks so natural, it’s as if it had always been that way.
Medically reviewed ✓
Written by Dr. med. Zeynep Potente
Board-Certified Specialist in Plastic and Aesthetic Surgery
✓ Member of the DGPRÄC (German Society of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgeons)
EBOPRAS – European Board of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery - ebopras.eu
✓ Over 20 years of experience in plastic surgery
✓ Specialization: Facial surgery and cosmetic procedures
📅 Last updated: August 11, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5.0 on Google · over 300 more reviews on Jameda
✓ Member of the DGPRÄC (German Society of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgeons)
✓ Our own certified operating rooms in Frankfurt and Oberursel
✓ Lasting results – The ears remain permanently in their new position
✓ Natural appearance – No “operated-on” look, but rather harmonious proportions
✓ A small procedure, a big impact – Outpatient, minimal downtime, immediate results
✓ For children and adults – Suitable for children ages 6 and up, once the ear has fully developed
✓ Scars well hidden – The scar is located in the natural crease behind the ear
✓ On both sides in a single session – Both ears are corrected at the same time
✓ More Freedom in Everyday Life – Putting hair up, hats, photos — without thinking
✓ Can be combined – Ideal in combination with other facial procedures
When protruding ears affect your self-confidence
Protruding ears—medically known as apostasis—occur when the natural fold of the outer ear (anthelix) is not pronounced enough or when the outer ear is set too low on the head. This has nothing to do with poor hygiene or an unhealthy lifestyle—it is simply an anatomical variation that is often genetic. If you’ve been feeling self-conscious for years, styling your hair to hide them, or avoiding having your photo taken, corrective surgery can make a significant difference in your quality of life.
If Your Child Has Protruding Ears
Children are often teased for having protruding ears—which can have a lasting impact on their self-confidence. Ear pinning can be performed starting at around age 6, since the outer ear is nearly fully developed by that time. Early surgery protects children from the social consequences that protruding ears can cause at school. We’ll advise you and your child with empathy and without pressure.
If a previous correction did not produce the desired result
Sometimes previous surgeries do not produce the desired results—whether due to insufficient correction, cartilage rebound, or asymmetries. We also perform revision surgeries. We carefully analyze the initial situation and discuss with you what can realistically be achieved.
When is a medical evaluation advisable?
For children under 6 years of age, we recommend waiting until the outer ear has fully developed. Smokers should abstain from nicotine for at least 4 weeks before and after the surgery.
When creating protruding ears – also commonly known as Protruding Ears —known as — the outer ears are permanently positioned closer to the head. This is done either by reshaping the cartilage and securing it in its new position with sutures, or by surgically removing small areas of skin behind the ear. Different techniques are used depending on the initial condition and the desired result.
The result: ears that lie naturally against your head and complement your face—permanently, and without anyone noticing that anything has been corrected.
Note: Whether surgery is an option for you and how it will be planned in your specific case can only be determined after a personal examination. The key factors are the severity of the protrusion, the condition of the cartilage, and your individual preferences. We will give you honest advice—even if that means advising against surgery.
The procedure is performed through an incision behind the ear. From there, we reshape the cartilage and position the outer ear closer to the head.
The procedure is an option for severely protruding ears, a missing anthelix fold, and corrections following a previous surgery.
We take the time for you: for a detailed consultation and to examine your ears.
What we'll discuss:
Here’s how the procedure is performed:
A carefully planned incision is made behind the ear in the natural skin fold—this ensures that the resulting scar is barely visible. The cartilage is exposed, reshaped, and secured in its new position with permanent sutures. If necessary, excess skin is removed. The procedure has a proven track record, even for severely protruding ears and cases where the antihelix fold is absent.
Both sides in one session:
We always operate on both ears at the same time—this ensures a symmetrical result and means you’ll only have one recovery period.
Where will the surgery take place?
In our own certified operating rooms in Oberursel (Oberhöchstadter Str. 8). From preoperative preparation through the surgery to the recovery room—everything under one roof.
Local anesthesia: Standard for adults—you are awake but feel nothing. Many patients prefer this option because of the short recovery time.
General anesthesia: For children and, upon the express request of adults.
Our anesthesiologist, Dr. Livia Köhler, will personally care for you throughout the entire surgery.
The First 48 Hours: Head Bandage and Rest
Immediately after the surgery, a special head bandage will be applied to hold the ears in their new position and reduce swelling. This bandage will remain in place for 1 to 2 days. Sleep with your upper body slightly elevated and avoid putting pressure on your ears.
Days 3–7: Headband Instead of a Bandage
After the head bandage is removed, wear an elastic headband—especially at night—to protect your ears while you sleep. Minor swelling and bruising are normal and will subside gradually each day. Starting on day 3, you may shower carefully.
Week 2: Suture Removal
After 10 to 14 days, the external sutures are removed (unless they are dissolvable). Most patients are able to return to work by the second week. The headband should continue to be worn at night.
Weeks 3–6: Return to Normalcy
After 3 to 4 weeks, you can resume your normal daily routine. You’ll need to continue wearing the headband at night for a total of 4 to 6 weeks—this is the most important step for ensuring long-term results.
Sports, Sun, and Contact Sports: A 6-Week Break
Light physical activity is possible starting in week 2. Contact sports (martial arts, team sports involving physical contact) should be avoided for at least 6 weeks, as a blow to the ear could jeopardize the results. Also avoid swimming pools and saunas for 4 to 6 weeks. Protect the scars behind your ears with sunscreen for 12 months.
The final result after 3–6 months
The final results are fully visible after 3 to 6 months, once all swelling has subsided and the scars have faded. The ears sit naturally and harmoniously against the head—permanently.
As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks associated with correcting protruding ears. We will discuss these with you in detail:
Common (temporary):
Rare:
Very rare:
Our experienced team minimizes risks through precise surgical techniques, personalized planning, and close follow-up care. Wearing a headband after surgery is not merely a recommendation, but an important protective measure that ensures long-term results.
The cost depends on the extent of the correction and the type of anesthesia.
| Performance | Costs starting at |
|---|---|
| Ear Correction (both ears, local anesthesia) | 2.500 € |
| General anesthesia (for children or upon request) | plus anesthesia costs |
| Revision Surgery | on a case-by-case basis, depending on the findings |
What's included in the price?
Cash acquisition?
For adults, ear pinning is generally a service covered by private insurance. For children and adolescents, statutory health insurance may cover the costs in justified individual cases—particularly if significant psychosocial distress can be demonstrated. There is no uniform regulation; decisions are made on a case-by-case basis. We will assist you with the application process by providing the necessary documentation.
Alternatives to Surgery
Depending on age and individual circumstances, other options may also be worth considering:
Useful Combinations
This procedure can be easily combined with other facial procedures, if desired:
We provide honest, personalized advice—only what truly suits you and meets your needs.
This is an outpatient procedure—no hospital stay is required. After 1 to 2 weeks, most patients are able to return to work (office), and after 4 to 6 weeks, they can resume exercising. You’ll see the final results after 3 to 6 months.
Starting at about age 6, when the outer ear has largely finished developing. There is no upper age limit—many adults don’t have the procedure done until adulthood because they’ve put it off for decades. We treat patients of all ages.
No, not in everyday life. The scar runs along the natural skin fold directly behind the ear—it’s not visible even when the hair is pulled back.
Sometimes—but it is not a standard benefit covered by law. In cases of significant psychosocial distress (e.g., workplace bullying, proven mental health impairment), an application can be submitted. We’ll help you with the necessary documentation. There’s no guarantee that the costs will be covered—the decision rests with the respective health insurance provider.
Partial springback of the cartilage is possible. In this case, we will discuss together whether a correction is advisable. Revision surgeries are possible and are planned on a case-by-case basis.
You won't feel anything during the surgery because of the anesthesia. Afterward, it's normal to feel some tightness and mild pressure from the bandage—this can be easily managed with pain medication. Most patients describe the recovery period as very manageable.
Yes, but for the first 4 to 6 weeks, you should wear the headband at night and, if possible, avoid sleeping on your ears. A travel pillow can help relieve pressure on your ears while you sleep. After that, there are no restrictions whatsoever.
OP duration: 1–2 hours
Type of anesthesia: Local anesthesia (adults), general anesthesia (children / upon request)
Hospitalization: Outpatient – no hospital stay required
Incapacity for work: 1–2 weeks
Sport: after 4–6 weeks (contact sports: 6 weeks)
Socially Acceptable: after 1–2 weeks
Scarring: Behind the ear (barely visible)
Headband: Wear at night for 4–6 weeks
Shelf life: Designed to be permanent
Final result visible: after 3–6 months
Costs: starting at €2,500
Acquisition of a pharmacy: Possible on a case-by-case basis for children
Follow-up care included: Yes, all follow-up appointments
Write to us! We will be happy to advise you!
