Ear Pinning / Otoplasty

Typically large or protruding ears do not lead to functional problems, however many individuals may choose correct them for cosmetic reasons. Ear pinning surgery is common for children to undergo at a young age to spare them from teasing by other children. An otoplasty is a surgical procedure that will improve the overall size and shape of the ears. During this procedure the ears will be reshaped and pinned back to fit the patient’s appearance. Incisions are placed behind the ear to ensure that scarring cannot be seen. For this procedure patients may undergo local anesthesia or twilight anesthesia. Twilight anesthesia is an IV sedation anesthesia in addition to a local anesthetic. An otoplasty may take anywhere between 1 to 2 hours to complete.

Areas of Use

An otoplasty procedure is designed to correct protruding or large ears. This procedure will improve the overall appearance of the ears reshaping them and giving them symmetry.

Expected Recovery

After an otoplasty it may take 3 to 7 days before a patient can return to their regular daily activities. It may take 6 to 8 weeks before a patient can return to strenuous activity; such as running or lifting weights. There will be dressings on the inside and outside of the ear for about a week, during this time hearing will seem muffled. Patients may experience a moderate amount of pain in the ear. The pain will be controlled with oral medications. The stitches typically used are designed to dissolve within 1 to 2 weeks after the surgery and do not require removal. Patients must sleep on their back to ensure they do not disrupt the ear during the healing process.

Duration of Effect

The results of an otoplasty procedure may last forever. However results may vary depending on the patient’s skin type and texture.