Quick Answer:
Ear surgery, or otoplasty, corrects prominent or protruding ears by reshaping the cartilage through an incision behind the ear and repositioning the ear closer to the head. It is usually done as day surgery, can be performed at any age, and does not affect hearing. Dr Ong Wei Chen performs ear surgery, including earlobe repair, at WC Ong Plastic Reconstructive Surgery, Gleneagles Medical Centre, Singapore.
Prominent ears are ears that protrude from the head more than usual, a condition that usually develops in childhood and has no effect on hearing. It is harmless, but some people find it affects their self-confidence, and surgery can reposition the ear at any age. Otoplasty is the operation used to correct prominent ears and other ear shape concerns, and Dr Ong Wei Chen also performs earlobe repair for torn or split lobes.
What does otoplasty for prominent ears involve?
Otoplasty reshapes the cartilage through an incision hidden behind the ear, so the ear sits naturally against the head — the scar is tucked out of sight.
— Dr Ong Wei Chen, Senior Consultant Plastic Surgeon
Otoplasty corrects prominent ears through an incision made behind the ear, where the cartilage is reshaped and the ear is drawn closer to the head for a more natural position, then sutured closed. It is usually performed as day surgery, so you may return home the same day. Compression bandages are worn for a few days afterwards, and the clinic provides medication and support for recovery. Dr Ong Wei Chen assesses the ears and discusses the approach before surgery.
Can otoplasty be done for children?
Otoplasty can be performed at any age once the ears have reached near-adult size, which is usually from around five to six years old, as well as in teenagers and adults. Correcting prominent ears does not affect hearing, and the timing is often chosen around a child’s comfort and readiness. Dr Ong Wei Chen assesses each patient individually and discusses suitable timing with families at WC Ong Plastic Reconstructive Surgery, Gleneagles Medical Centre.
Does Dr Ong perform earlobe repair?
Yes — torn or split earlobes, often caused by heavy earrings or trauma, can be repaired under local anaesthesia, usually as a quick day procedure. The damaged edges are freshened and sutured so the lobe heals in a natural shape, and the ear can typically be re-pierced later once fully healed. Earlobe repair complements otoplasty within Dr Ong Wei Chen’s ear surgery service at Gleneagles Medical Centre.
FREQUENT ASKED QUESTIONS
Who is a suitable candidate for otoplasty in Singapore?
People who want to correct the position of prominent or protruding ears may be suitable for otoplasty, and it can be performed on children, teenagers and adults. Good candidates are in reasonable health and have realistic expectations, and correcting the ears does not affect hearing. Dr Ong Wei Chen assesses suitability at WC Ong Plastic Reconstructive Surgery, Gleneagles Medical Centre, before advising.
Will ear surgery leave a visible scar?
Otoplasty requires an incision to reshape the ear, so some scarring is present, but it is usually placed behind the ear where it is not easily visible. The clinic advises on wound care and scar management to support healing. The final appearance depends on individual healing. Dr Ong Wei Chen explains where the incision will be placed before surgery.
How long does recovery from otoplasty take?
Recovery is relatively quick, with most patients returning to daily activities within one to two weeks. Some swelling and bruising may be present immediately after surgery and settle over time, and compression bandages, followed by a head band, help keep the ears in position while they heal. Dr Ong Wei Chen reviews recovery at follow-up appointments at Gleneagles Medical Centre.
Can ear surgery be claimed under Medisave or insurance in Singapore?
Otoplasty is usually considered a cosmetic procedure and is generally not claimable, but it may qualify when done for a medical reason. Where eligible, WC Ong Plastic Reconstructive Surgery can assist with direct insurance e-filing and Medisave claims. Because coverage depends on the indication and your policy, confirm the details with your insurer or the clinic before surgery.
Contact Us Today
Dr Ong is a fully accredited Singapore plastic surgeon. She currently practices at WC Ong Plastic Reconstructive Surgery at Gleneagles Medical Centre, serving patients in all Parkway hospitals and Mount Alvernia Hospital. Under the competent and experienced hands of one of the best female plastic surgeons in Singapore, you can be assured of quality care and treatment.
