Otoplasty (Ear Pinning) Surgery

Otoplasty, also known as ear pinning surgery, is a surgery used to reshape one or both ears. Patients who are dissatisfied with the size and/or shape of their ears can alter their appearance through this outpatient procedure. Otoplasty also includes ear / earlobe reduction and cauliflower ear surgery to remove and recontour excess skin and cartilage.

About the Otoplasty Surgery

Ear pinning and ear reshaping surgery is usually performed under a local anesthetic with a sedative for adults and general anesthesia for children.

To begin otoplasty surgery, the surgeon makes an incision behind the ear to expose the cartilage. The cartilage is then reshaped and any excess skin removed. Finally, if necessary, the ear is repositioned more closely to the head, and the incision is closed with non-removable stitches or sutures.

Cosmetic ear surgery generally lasts between one and two hours, depending on the extent of the surgery.

Ear Pinning and Reshaping Techniques

There are several different techniques used to accomplish ear pinning during otoplasty surgery. The nature and extent of the problem usually determines which surgical technique the physician chooses. The different methods of ear pinning and reshaping can be divided into two basic groups: cartilage scoring (cutting) and cartilage sparing.

Cartilage scoring techniques use incisions into the cartilage to remove, add, or rearrange the tissue. With these methods there is a greater risk of scarring, although most scars are difficult to see. Cartilage sparing techniques, such as the Mustardé method, use stitches and sutures to manipulate the shape and position of the ear. Minimally invasive, a cartilage sparing otoplasty surgery often results in smoother, more natural curvatures.

Ear pinning surgery, which repositions protruding ears more closely to the sides of the head, combines skin removal from the back of the ear with cartilage sparing and scoring techniques. This fusion of techniques allows the surgeon to achieve ideal shape and positioning.

Reconstructive ear surgery, a form of otoplasty used to correct deformities (such as cauliflower ear) or injuries, blends a variety of otoplasty surgery techniques and other reconstructive procedures to recreate a natural-looking human ear.

What is Bilateral Otoplasty?

While some patients require correction of only one ear, many patients have cosmetic concerns with both. Bilateral otoplasty is an ear pinning and reshaping surgery performed on both ears. Bilateral otoplasty is performed the same way as surgery involving a single ear, and has the same recovery time, potential complications, and benefits. Although post-procedural side effects such as itching and throbbing may be slightly more pronounced following a bilateral otoplasty, the discomfort should still be minimal.

Ear Reduction Surgery

Some patients are more concerned with the size and shape of their ears rather than their protrusion from the side of the head. A form of otoplasty known as ear reduction surgery is utilized for sculpting larger ears to give a more natural, streamlined look. Ear reduction surgery, which may include earlobe reduction, is an outpatient procedure and can be performed on children and adults. During the surgery, the doctor will remove unwanted cartilage and skin, and reshape the ear to create a more compact size. Often accompanied by ear pinning, ear and ear lobe reduction surgery can provide balance and symmetry to the face and ears.

Search Facial Cosmetic Surgeons in Your Region

Having a doctor you trust can make all the difference when it comes to deciding on the right techniques and achieving optimal results from your ear pinning or reshaping surgery. If you are interested in learning if otoplasty surgery is right for you, we encourage you to search DocShop’s online directory to locate a facial cosmetic surgeon in your area.