Prominent ears or protruding ears are often a family characteristic; in some cases one ear is more prominent than the other and many people feel self-conscious about them. Ear pinning, also known as otoplasty or pinnaplasty, is an operation to pin back your ears so that they lie closer to your head.
During ear pinning surgery your consultant makes a cut behind your ear, close to the groove between your ear and your head. Adjustments are then made to the cartilage so that your ear lies closer to your head. If the lobe of your ear is especially large you may choose to have a small procedure to reduce its size. Ear pinning surgery is most often performed during childhood (after the age of five), but can also be performed on adolescents and adults.
Ear pinning operation will be carried out using a local or general anaesthetic and you may be in hospital for one to two days. Your consultant will advise what is appropriate for you.
You will usually need to wear a dressing on the ears for five to 10 days after surgery for protruding ears, and after this time you may need to wear protective headgear in bed to prevent your ears from being bent forwards while they heal. There will be a scar on the ear where the cut is made, but this is generally very well hidden and your consultant surgeon will discuss this with you prior to your ear pinning operation.
All operations carry risks as well as benefits. The chance of complications following surgery for protruding ears depends on the type of operation and other factors such as your general health. Your consultant will explain how the risks apply to you.
Next steps
For more information on ear pinning, to arrange your initial consultation with a cosmetic surgeon, or to book a free cosmetic nurse appointment, call our cosmetic surgery team on
0800 434 6644 or
enquire online.
