Otoplasty is performed to set prominent ears back closer to the head or to reduce the size of large ears. Otoplasty is typically performed on children at the age of 5 or 6 when the ear growth is nearly complete. However, in children who have severe disfigurement earlier repair may be performed to eliminate the emotional stress they may experience as they enter school. Ear surgery on adults is also perfomed with generally no additional risks associated with ear surgery in the older patient.

Although the degree of improvement varies according to individual problems, patients undergoing otoplasty experience significant improvement in their appearance from this procedure. Most importantly otoplasty helps both children and adults regain the self-confidence crucial to individuals of all ages.