Pinnaplasty/Otoplasty

This is a procedure to correct (“pin back”) prominent ears. The outer ear/pinna normally protrudes 1-2 cm from the scalp at the most. Greater prominence is usually due to an absent/deficient antihelical fold, a deep conchal bowl (marked cavum conchae on the diagram), or a combination of these. Ears that are positioned too close to the scalp (overcorrected) can look unusual/aesthetically displeasing. A gap of 1-2cm between the scalp and ear gives a natural look.

The surgery is performed as a daycase (you are home the same day) under a general anaesthetic (you will be fast asleep).  An incision is made on the back of the outer ear (pinna). The ear cartilages are reshaped and held in their new positions with permanent hidden stitches. The wound is closed with absorbable stitches which do not need to be removed. A head bandage is applied and worn continuously for 3-7 days post-operatively. Once this has been removed, a sports headband should be worn at night for a month. These are both important to help the ears heal in the correct position. The ears can get wet after 5 days, and you can return to school, college or work once the head bandage has been removed, but contact sports should be avoided for 6 weeks. Aerobic exercise can be resumed after 2 weeks. Photographs will be taken before and after surgery as a baseline for future reference.

Risks of surgery include: Bleeding, infection, pain, scar (hidden behind the ear), imperfect result/need for revision surgery. Mild asymmetry is normal. The ears can also temporarily feel numb or stiffer than usual at first. These resolve within a few months.

Even if only one of the ears is prominent, sometimes both ears will need to be operated on, to optimise symmetry.

Whether performed privately or on the NHS, certain checks are required to ensure you have adequately weighed up the risks and benefits of surgery, and have realistic expectations as to what can be achieved. Alternatives to surgery should be considered such as a change of mindset, or even a course of psychotherapy to learn to accept your appearance.