Large or protruding ears are a common concern for some individuals. Otoplasty surgery is a procedure that can modify the shape and profile of the ears. It’s important to note that all surgical procedures carry risks and should be considered carefully.
What is Otoplasty?
Otoplasty surgery (also known as Cosmetic Ear Surgery, Ear Pinning, Ear Pin Back or Ear Reduction Surgery) is a cosmetic surgical procedure which can change the shape and profile of large or protruding ears. It’s important to note that all surgical procedures carry risks and individual experiences may vary.
Typically caused by a larger than usual concha (the bowl-like area just above the ear lobe) or an underdeveloped antihelical fold (the area just inside the outer rim of the upper ear), otoplasty works to make prominent ears flatter and less obvious by ‘pinning’ them back closer to the scalp.
Otoplasty can also be used to alter large or stretched ear lobes or to correct distorted or damaged ears by manipulating the ear cartilage to achieve a more desirable shape or size.
Who is Otoplasty suitable for?
An otoplasty ear pinning procedure can be considered by individuals who wish to modify the shape or profile of their ears. It can be performed at any age. However, it’s important to have a thorough consultation with a medical professional to understand the procedure, its risks, and whether it’s the right choice for you or your child.
What to expect when having Otoplasty surgery?
An otoplasty procedure is performed by making an incision at the back of the ear where the ear meets the side of the head (known as the posterior auricular sulcus area) and removing or modifying some of the cartilage to alter their protrusion or size. The incision is then closed with either dissolvable or regular sutures.
The procedure is usually performed on both ears (even if only one ear protrudes) to achieve better symmetry and balance.
Otoplasty surgery can be conducted either in a hospital or as a day procedure and is typically performed under local anaesthetic.
Following cosmetic ear surgery, you should expect some bruising and swelling around the ears which should subside after one week. You will also be supplied with a headband which will need to be worn at all times for extra support for the first few weeks following the procedure, then only at night for between four and eight weeks.
Recovery times following ear pinning surgery can vary between individuals. Some patients may require time off work and may need to manage any pain or discomfort with appropriate medication as advised by their healthcare provider.
How effective is Otoplasty?
The effectiveness of otoplasty can vary between individuals. While some patients may report satisfaction with their results, it’s important to have realistic expectations and discuss these with your healthcare provider.
While achieving perfectly symmetrical ears is unrealistic, you can expect your ears to have a far more pleasing natural appearance. It’s likely the procedure will also leave a scar on the back of the ear, however this will be disguised by the natural contours of the ear and will gradually fade over time.
The results of otoplasty are permanent—ear cartilage is however quite elastic, so you may notice some subtle forward movement of the ears after the procedure.
To understand the potential effectiveness of an ear-pinning procedure, it’s important to discuss this with your healthcare provider who can provide information tailored to your individual circumstances.
Ear Pinning at Me Clinic
At Me Clinic, we have over 35 years of cosmetic surgery experience and have performed thousands of otoplasty procedures from our Melbourne clinic in Malvern East.
To find out if otoplasty surgery is a suitable option for you, simply contact us to arrange a personal consultation with one of our skilled and experienced surgeons.
