Otoplasty for protruding ears

Nearly 2 per cent of the population are self-conscious about protruding ears. Sometimes others can be cruel and unthinking towards people (especially children) with so-called bat ears, leading to a loss of self-confidence. Nowadays help is at hand with a routine operation to pin back ears called an otoplasty or pinnaplasty. Ear correction surgery consists of reshaping the ear cartilage; the ears are then pinned back using stitches. Sometimes the problem is with ear lobes that are too large or oddly-shaped ears. Ear reshaping surgery can also be useful under these circumstances.

What happens during an otoplasty?

Pinnaplasty can be performed under local or general anaesthesia, depending on your preference. The incision is made in the natural crease behind the ear where the scar will not show. Protruding ears are pinned back using plastic stitches after the cartilage skeleton of the ear has been reshaped. The skin is closed with dissolvable stitches and a special head bandage completes the procedure. The head bandage is normally worn for a week and then at night for a further 5 weeks. Ear pinning surgery usually takes between 1 and 2 hours.

Are there any risks or side effects of otoplasty?

After any operation you can expect to feel a little sore for a day or two. Your ears may feel numb or tight for a few weeks. Bleeding and infection are rare after ear reshaping surgery. Very occasionally the ears are a little lop-sided and you may need further corrective surgery.

How much does otoplasty cost?

Our fee for otoplasty under local anaesthesia is £2650 including hospital costs.

If you are interested in a pinnaplasty, please phone me on 0117 3250325 for a free consultation with our surgeon.