Ear Pinning

Ear pinning (otoplasty) is a surgical procedure that permanently corrects prominent or protruding ears by reshaping and repositioning the ear cartilage. The procedure is safe and effective for both children and adults and can have a profound positive impact on self-confidence. MetroDerm’s Center for Plastic Surgery performs otoplasty using cartilage-sparing techniques that produce natural, symmetric, permanent results.

What Is Otoplasty?

Prominent ears most commonly result from one or both of two anatomical variations: overdevelopment of the conchal bowl (the cup-shaped cartilage), or absence or underdevelopment of the antihelical fold (a naturally occurring ridge that gives the ear its curved appearance). Otoplasty corrects these structural issues by scoring, sculpting, or suturing the cartilage into a more typical position and shape, setting the ears closer to the head.

Who Is a Candidate for Otoplasty?

Otoplasty is appropriate for children age 5 and older (when ear cartilage is sufficiently mature) and adults of any age. The ideal candidate has ears that protrude significantly from the head or appear disproportionately large due to anatomical variation, and has realistic expectations about surgical outcomes. Ear prominence is defined as a distance of more than 1.5-2 cm from the outer ear to the scalp.

The Otoplasty Procedure

The procedure is performed under general anesthesia for younger children and local anesthesia or IV sedation for older patients and adults. An incision is made in the natural crease behind the ear, allowing the surgeon access to reshape and reposition the cartilage. Permanent internal sutures maintain the new contour. The operation typically takes 1-2 hours; both ears are typically operated on at the same time.

Recovery and Results

A head bandage is worn for the first week to protect the ears and maintain their new position. Most patients can return to school or work in 7-10 days. Contact sports and activities that could impact the ears should be avoided for 6 weeks. Results are permanent. Otoplasty consistently produces natural-looking, long-lasting ear reshaping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: At what age can children have otoplasty?

A: Otoplasty is generally recommended from age 5-6 years, when ear cartilage has reached sufficient maturity for lasting results and before school-age social impact becomes a concern. The procedure is safe at any age thereafter.

Q: Is otoplasty permanent?

A: Yes. The cartilage reshaping and suture techniques used in otoplasty produce permanent results. Ears will not return to their original position after surgery. The results last a lifetime.

Q: Does otoplasty change the size of the ears?

A: Standard otoplasty corrects ear position and projection but does not change the actual size of the ears. Macrotia (ears that are genuinely too large) can be addressed with a separate cartilage reduction procedure, which may be combined with otoplasty.

Procedures & Treatments