When is prominent-ear surgery suitable for a child, and what are the risks?
Prominent-ear surgery may be considered once ear cartilage is suitable, often from around age five after assessment. Age alone is not enough: the child’s wishes, cooperation and health matter. It changes appearance and does not automatically treat hearing loss.
Details
Include the child in the decision
Discuss concerns without pressuring the child to change their appearance. The surgeon assesses development, expectations and ability to follow aftercare. Address bullying with family and school as well; surgery does not guarantee that it will stop.
What should you discuss?
Ask about anaesthesia, incisions, dressings, time away from school and sports. Risks include bleeding, infection, scars, asymmetry, recurrent prominence and altered sensation. Perfect results cannot be guaranteed.
Care after correction
Follow instructions on protection, sleeping, hygiene and dressing review. Do not remove stitches yourself. Increasing pain, sudden swelling, discharge or fever needs contact with the surgeon. Ear moulding in selected newborns is a different option requiring early assessment.
Related reading: How safe is rhinoplasty, and what should I ask before surgery?.