Otoplasty, or surgery to correct protruding ears, can be performed at almost any age though the surgery is most often performed on children at age five or six when the ear has reached full development. Otoplasty is especially helpful to eliminate psychological trauma when ears are corrected before the child starts school.

The cartilage is reshaped, allowing the ears to be placed closer to the head. The incisions are placed behind the ears so scars are well hidden.

A gauze bandage is worn for a week to ten days after surgery to ensure that the ears heal in their new position. Sports and activities that may affect the ears should be avoided for up to 6 weeks.