What is pinnaplasty?

Ear correction surgery, where the ears are pinned back, is known as pinnaplasty or otoplasty. The cosmetic surgery procedure is used to change the shape of the ears, or to pin them back if they stick out. It is usually carried out on children and teenagers, but some adults may opt to have the procedure, too. Children under the age of five are unable to have pinnaplasty as their ears are still developing and growing.

What happens during a pinnaplasty?

Pinnaplasty is performed under general anaesthetic, however some surgons may offer the procedure under local anaesthetic depending on the age of the patient. The operation usually takes about one to two hours. The surgeon will make a cut to the back of the ear and peel off some skin from the cartilage. The shape of the cartilage is changed so that the ear is closer to the head. The doctor can also correct the symmetry of the ears. The wounds are then closed with dissolvable stitches and a dressing is applied.

There is a newer technique known as incisionless otoplasty to treat prominent ears, which involves scoring the cartilage through the ear skin using a needle. No incision is made. There is not a lot of evidence about the long-term quality of this procedure.

What happens after pinnaplasty?

Following surgery, the ears may be sore, tender, or numb for a few days and the patient may need to wear a bandage around their head. They will not be able to wash their hair for a few days whilst leaving the dressing on to protect the ears from infection. It is useful to sleep upright for a few nights following surgery.

There may be bruising for a few weeks and it is recommended taking the time off school or work to let these heal. The stitches may come to the surface and cause the ear to feel sore, which can be treated with over-the-counter pain medications. 

What are the possible complications of pinnaplasty?

Complications are unusual. There can be a collection of blood between the skin and the cartilage, which creates 'cauliflower ear'. On some occasions, the skin may scab and the patient must be very careful with their dressings to ensure that underlying cartilage is not exposed, dried out, or infected. If it does dry out, then it can cause a misshapen ear and another procedure will be needed to repair the hole with a skin graft. If the area is red, swollen, or painful post-operation, this may be a sign of infection and the patient should consult their doctor.

Is there a difference between pinnaplasty and otoplasty?

No, there is no difference between pinnaplasty and otoplasty. They are different names for the same procedure. 

Will pinnaplasty change the overall appearance of my face? 

Many people who are considering pinnaplasty are worried that the procedure will drastically change their appearance and they will become unrecognisable. This is not the case. Pinnaplasty will only change the distance that your ears protrude out, with little to no change to the rest of your appearance.