When the auricles are not close to the head or are larger than normal, they appear as prominent and asymmetric compared to the face and head. The procedure used to correct this deformity is called otoplasty and is usually performed on children aged up to 14 years, after their ears have fully developed until the age of 5. The otoplasty procedure is also used to correct other deformities of the auricle such as cup ear or constricted ear deformities etc. The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia on children and local anaesthesia on adults and may last 1-2 hours. A small incision is made on the back of the ear. On this spot the skin is detached from the underlying cartilage which forms the frame of the ear. The cartilage is then shaped, or part thereof is extracted, depending on the case. It is bended backwards towards the desired position and secured with non-absorbable suture. Finally, the incision is closed and dressed with appropriate elastic bandage that stays in place for a week. Oral painkillers can be taken. Stitches, if non-absorbable, are removed in 2 weeks. Adult patients resume their activities within 5 days while children need about 10 days recovery time before returning to school where they must avoid any sports activities. Oedema and bruising subside within 10-15 days. Complications are rare.