Pinnaplasty (Ear Surgery)

Nicely shaped ears usually go unnoticed. But having ears that are large, misshapen or that stick out draws unwanted attention that can erode a person’s self-esteem and self-confidence.

Is a Pinnaplasty Right For Me?

Nicely shaped ears usually go unnoticed. But having ears that are large, misshapen or that stick out draws unwanted attention that can erode a person’s self-esteem and self-confidence over a lifetime. Children with protruding ears are often subjected to teasing by peers; teens and adults can become withdrawn and self-conscious about the appearance of their ears. Plastic surgery of the ear, technically known as “Otoplasty,” should be performed after the ear is fully developed at around age 4. At Cosmedicare we operate only on adults aged 18 or over.

Are There Different Variations of a Pinnaplasty?

The improvements that can be provided by ear shaping include:

  • Repositioning protruding ears closer to the head
  • Reducing the size of large ears
  • Correcting misshapen ears, such as “lop ears” (when the tip folds down and forward), and “shell ears” (when the curve in the outer rim of the ear is missing)
  • Enhancing ear lobes that are oversized, stretched, or wrinkled
  • Improving symmetry between ear shape or size
  • Creating new ears for patients with birth defects
  • Reconstructing ears damaged by injury

What Happens During the Procedure

Surgical correction uses an incision hidden behind the ear to bring the ears closer to the head. At times, repositioning requires us to create a bend in the upper ear known as the antihelix, which doesn’t always fully form during development. Also, surgical correction of the “bowl” area of the ear, or concha, can greatly reduce cupping of the ear and give the ear a more natural position, closer to the head. We can also improve the earlobe so it doesn’t protrude as much. Surgery typically requires local anaesthetic and last for about one and a half hours. Pain is minimal, and only a week is needed for recovery. General Anaesthetic options are also available.

The procedure typically takes 1.5 - 2 hours.

No, your surgery will usually be a daycase.

Usually you can begin to return to normal activities after 1 week. After 6 weeks you can often return to your exercise regime. If you have further questions or concerns let your patient coordinator know so we can help.

We tend to recommend taking 1 week off work.

Typically 6 months.

Ear shaping plastic surgery will not affect hearing, and usually leaves only faint scars that your surgeon can conceal behind the ears.

Preparing For Pinnaplasty (Ear Surgery)

We understand that procedures like this are a deeply personal decision—and one that comes with many questions. At Cosmedicare, we believe in open, honest communication every step of the way. Thats’s why we’ve tailored FAQs for straightforward answers, helping you feel informed, confident, and fully supported.

Aftercare and Beyond - What To Expect

1

Dressing Removal

Recovery from otoplasty doesn’t take long and the dressing will be removed a few days after your surgery. Pain should be minimal, and some swelling and bruising is expected however most of it subsides within a week.

2

2

Protecting Your Ears

Once your dressing is removed an athletic style headband is put in place for one week and worn all day and night. This headband protects the ears while they are healing and it’s an important part of the recovery process.

3

Overnight Headband

After a week, the supportive headband should continue to be worn at night for a month to protect and encourage healing. At this point the majority of patients are able to resume to their normal activities.

Our Specialist Surgeons

Cosmedicare’s surgical team consists of highly trained, GMC-registered specialist surgeons with expertise in cosmetic, reconstructive, and gender-affirming surgery. They bring decades of experience and a commitment to delivering personalised care and exceptional results.

Consultant Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeon, MBChB, MD, FRCS (Plast)
Consultant Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeon, MBChB, MD, FRCS (Plast)
Consultant Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeon, MBChB, MD, FRCS (Plast)
Consultant Plastic & Aesthetic Surgeon
Consultant Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon MBChB, MD, FRCS (Plast)
Consultant Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeon Qualifications MBChB, MSc, FRCS(Plast)

Learn More

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