Ear Pinning Surgery: Assessment, Risks and Recovery

Ear pinning surgery (otoplasty) changes selected cartilage and skin to alter prominent-ear position or shape. It cannot guarantee matched ears, facial symmetry, invisible scars or a particular confidence benefit.

Assessment and consent

The surgeon should assess ear shape, cartilage, asymmetry, skin, previous injury or surgery, health, medicines, smoking and expectations. For children, maturity, consent and the child’s own wishes require careful consideration.

Procedure and alternatives

Techniques may use sutures, cartilage scoring or removal through an incision commonly behind the ear. Alternatives include no surgery. Each ear may need a different adjustment, and cartilage can partly return toward its previous position.

Risks and recovery

Risks include bleeding, infection, pain, swelling, visible or raised scars, asymmetry, altered sensation, skin or cartilage injury, over-correction, recurrence, dissatisfaction and revision. Headband use, activity and recovery should follow the individual plan.

See Revitalize’s ear correction information, named doctors and assessment route.