Ear Pinning

What is ear pinning surgery?

Otoplasty – commonly known as ear pinning surgery – is a cosmetic procedure to reduce the size of ears and/or make them less prominent.

Who benefits from ear pinning surgery?

Ear pinning surgery is suitable for those who feel conscious of having large or prominent ears, and can help the individual to become less self-conscious and more confident. Reconstructive surgery – a form of otoplasty - may also be a solution for those who suffer ear deformities or whose ears have been injured in some way. Ear pinning can be performed on children from the age of four, as the ear will be fully formed by this time. Adults are also excellent candidates for ear pinning surgery.

Procedure

The ear pinning procedure can be performed under local or general anesthetic and can take up to 2-3 hours. The surgeon will make a small incision behind the ear; excess skin and cartilage are then removed and the incision is stitched closed. Another method involves creating a small incision in the back of the ear, removing some skin and using stitches to bend or ‘pin’ the cartilage back towards the head, but not removing the cartilage itself. The incision is then sewn up.

Recovery period

Bandages and stitches will be removed 7-10 days after the operation, and it is advised to take up to a week off work or school. Swelling will go down over a period of around one to a few weeks, and any soreness or tenderness can be reduced using painkillers.

Risks

Risks involved with ear pinning surgery are minimal, however they can happen. Blood clot formation, asymmetrical or cauliflower ears, bleeding underneath the skin and infection (which can result in scar tissue) are possible risks. Very occasionally the ear or ears may return to their original position and ear pinning surgery will have to be repeated.

References

Transform Medical Group (CS) Ltd
Department of Health
CosmeticSurgery.com
DocShop.com
About.com: Health Topics A-Z
NHS 24
American Society of Plastic Surgeons