- Anaesthesia
- Local for most adults; general for children
- Operating time
- About 1–2 hours
- Hospital stay
- Usually a day case
- Time in Thailand
- Commonly 5–7 days
- Headband
- Often worn at night for several weeks
- Scar
- Hidden behind the ear
What otoplasty corrects
Otoplasty can set prominent ears closer to the head, reshape the ear's folds, reduce large earlobes or correct differences between the ears. It is commonly done in adults and in children once the ears are close to adult size.
Techniques
Through an incision behind the ear, the surgeon reshapes the cartilage with permanent stitches, scoring or removal of a small amount of cartilage, depending on the ear. Incisionless (suture-only) methods are used for some ears.
Recovery timeline
- First days: a head dressing protects the ears; some soreness and swelling.
- About 1 week: dressing removed and stitches checked; most people fly home after 5–7 days.
- Weeks 2–6: a soft headband is often worn at night to protect the new shape; avoid contact sports.
Risks
Possible complications include bleeding, infection, asymmetry, the ears moving back towards their original position, stitches becoming visible or irritated, overcorrection and, rarely, thickened scarring.
Travelling to Thailand
Plan about 5–7 days. Bring a soft headband and loose tops that do not pull over the ears.
What affects the cost
One or both ears, technique, anaesthesia and dressings affect the price.
Choosing a surgeon
Confirm the surgeon's licence with the Medical Council of Thailand and relevant specialist training, ask how many otoplasty procedures they perform, and how complications are handled after you return home. See our checklist.
Surgeons and hospitals for otoplasty
Verified surgeons profiles are being added
We list surgeons only after checking their licence, training and hospital affiliations against official sources for otoplasty. You can still book now: our patient team matches you with a suitable provider and confirms the booking.
Book a consultationSamitivej Sukhumvit Hospital
Preecha Aesthetic Institute (PAI)
Pattaya International Hospital
WIH International Hospital
W Plastic Surgery Hospital
Interplast Clinic
Nirunda International Aesthetic Clinic
Piyavate Hospital
Synphaet Ramintra Hospital
Kasemrad Hospital Prachachuen
Bangpakok 9 International Hospital
IDL Hospital
Phuket Aesthetic Surgery Clinic
Samitivej Chonburi Hospital
Bangkok Plastic Surgery Clinic
Phibeauty Clinic
Dr.Puttan Plastic Surgery (คลินิกศัลยกรรมตกแต่งหมอพุดตาน)
Dr. Wimon Plastic Surgery (คลินิกหมอวิมล)
Lannawadee Clinic (ลานนาวดีคลินิก)
Bangmod Hospital (Bangmod Aesthetic Center)
SLC Hospital
Rattinan Clinic
Bumrungrad International Hospital
Bangkok Skin Plastic Surgery Center
BB Clinic & Beauty Center
Absolute Beauty Clinic
คลินิคสุขุมวิทศัลยกรรมตกแต่ง
Dermaster Beauty Clinic
Otoplasty by destination
Frequently asked questions
How long should I stay in Thailand after otoplasty?
Commonly 5–7 days, until the dressing is removed and your surgeon has checked healing.
Is otoplasty done under local anaesthesia?
For most adults, yes; children usually have a general anaesthetic.
Will the scar show?
The scar sits in the crease behind the ear and is usually well hidden.
Is the result permanent?
Results are usually long-lasting, though a small degree of relapse can occur, sometimes needing adjustment.
How long do I wear a headband?
Often at night for several weeks, as your surgeon advises, to protect the new ear position.
Sources
- Ear surgery. American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Accessed 2026-09-23.
- Ear correction surgery. NHS. Accessed 2026-09-23.
- Medical Council of Thailand. Medical Council of Thailand. Accessed 2026-09-23.
This page is written by our editorial team from the sources above. Independent review by a licensed surgeon is being arranged; until then it is marked as review pending. See our medical review policy.