Ear Pinning
This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician with any questions you have regarding a medical condition. Your provider will offer referrals or treatment plans based on your specific condition or diagnosis.
What is ear pinning?
Ear surgery (otoplasty) is a type of cosmetic plastic surgery procedure. It improves the shape, position, or proportion of the ear. Ear pinning is aimed at setting prominent ears closer to the head, or reducing the size of larger ears. But other ear problems can also be helped with this type of plastic surgery. Surgeons can even build new ears for those who were born without them or who lost them through injury.
Who are candidates for ear pinning?
Otoplasty is usually done on children between the ages of 5 and 6. But it's also done for adults.
Possible complications linked to ear pinning
Possible complications linked to ear pinning may include:
Blood clots on the ears
Infection in the cartilage, which can cause scar tissue to form
Recurrence of the prominent ears (the risk is higher in adults than children)
About the procedure
Although each procedure varies, generally, ear pinning surgeries alter the cartilage just behind the ear. In some cases, cartilage and skin might be removed. In other cases, stitches are used to hold the cartilage permanently in place.
Where the procedure may be done
Surgeon's office-based surgical facility
Outpatient surgery center
Hospital outpatient
Hospital inpatient
Anesthesia choices
General anesthesia for children
Local anesthesia combined with a sedative for adults, which lets the person remain awake but relaxed
How long will it take?
Several hours or longer
Some possible short-term side effects of surgery
Throbbing in the ears
Aching or mild discomfort
To avoid putting pressure on your ears, you may not be able to sleep on your side. You may need to wear a headband for several weeks.