Ear correction surgery (Otoplasty)

What is otoplasty?

Otoplasty, also known as ear pinning or ear reshaping surgery, is a procedure to correct the shape, size, or position of the ears. It is most commonly performed to reduce the appearance of prominent or protruding ears, helping them sit closer to the head.

Who might be a candidate for otoplasty?

You may consider otoplasty if you or your child:

Have ears that stick out noticeably from the head.
Feel self-conscious or unhappy about the appearance of your ears.
Have uneven or misshapen ears due to birth differences or injury.
Have stretched or damaged earlobes (can also be corrected).

Children as young as 5 or 6 years old can have the surgery, as the ears are usually fully developed by that age.

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Surgery

Before your surgery, you’ll have a detailed consultation with Dr Law to discuss your goals, the procedure, and any risks. Clinical photos will be taken, and a second consultation will be arranged to answer further questions. It’s important to stop smoking at least six weeks before surgery to reduce risks. You may need blood tests and other health checks, and will receive instructions to prepare you for surgery.
Otoplasty is performed under general anaesthesia in an accredited hospital.
The procedure is tailored to your unique ear shape, concerns, and goals, so no two surgeries are exactly the same. However, the basic steps of otoplasty usually include:
- A small incision is made behind the ear.
- The cartilage is carefully reshaped to improve the ear contour.
- The ear is positioned closer to the head using internal stitches.
- The incision is then closed with fine sutures, hidden in the crease behind the ear.
The surgery typically takes around 2 hours, depending on your age, ear shape, and desired outcome.
Dr Law will give you personalised instructions to follow after your surgery. Please also note that recovery can vary between individuals. But in general:
- You’ll wake up in a recovery area and be monitored closely.
- A bandage will cover your head for 3-7 days.
- You can eat and drink once you’re fully awake.
- Most patients go home the same day.
- Mild pain & discomfort is common for a couple of days and is usually managed with pain medication.
- Bruising & swelling are normal and will fade within about two weeks.
- Stitches are usually dissolvable. Once the bandage is off, you can shower normally.
- It may take several weeks to see the final results. Scars will fade over a few months and become minimally noticeable.
- Returning to normal activities:
  - Most daily activities can be resumed within two weeks.
  - Avoid contact sports for six weeks to allow your ears to heal properly.

Risks & complications

All surgery carries risks and may include:
- Drug reactions.
- Allergic reactions.
- Infection.
- Bleeding and haematoma (blood clot).
Risks specific to otoplasty will be discussed with you during your consultation and will also be provided in your consent paperwork. These include:
- Asymmetry.
- Scars.
- Numbness.
- Infection of skin or cartilage.
- Re-protrusion of the ears and need for further surgery. This is rare.