Ear Pinning

Ear pinning is a cosmetic surgery procedure that children normally undergo but it is not an age specific procedure and adults will choose to have ear pinning surgery as well. Any persons with prominent ears that stick out are not in line with one another may be a candidate for ear pinning as long as the cartilage in their ears have completely developed, which normally occurs by the time a child has reached age six. By visiting a plastic surgeon with experience and reputation for successful ear pinning procedures can help determine whether or not undergoing ear pinning will be beneficial to that individual.

A plastic surgeon will completely evaluate the ear pinning candidate before deciding if ear pinning is appropriate. Ear pinning is a low risk procedure but individual factors may affect the surgical outcome. The surgeon will first examine the ear pinning candidate's ear structure so that the surgical technique options can be determined.

Ear pinning will result in the ears appearing closer to the head or to reduce the appearance of larger than desired ears. Depending on the amount of work to be performed for the ear pinning the surgeon may choose to remove a small amount of cartilage from the ear. The otoplasty plastic surgeon will make small incisions that will be behind the ears so it will not be visible.

In some instances, the otoplasty will involve internal sutures. Otherwise, ear pinning surgery normally will involve incisions in the back of the ear so that the cartilage is exposed in order to bend it back closer to the head. After the plastic surgeon has made the appropriate alterations then the patient will have dressings applied to the treated area and the ear pinning patient will be given post-operative instructions to aid healing and recovery.

The more rest the patient is able to take the better it will be for the recovery process. The surgeon will instruct the patient on how long to keep the bandages on and how long to keep their head elevated, which will normally be between 1-2 weeks. Within a month most ear pinning patients will have reached full recovery but resuming normal activities can occur within a week. Since children are often the ear pinning patients, it is necessary to be careful the child does not over engage in activities and negatively affect the healing process and overall aesthetic result.

Ear pinning has permanent results and most patients are extremely pleased with the improvement it can create. The new appearance following an ear pinning procedure will result in a more natural and proportionate look for that patient. By making sure the plastic surgeon understand the desired result from the ear pinning surgery will better ensure that the patient is fully satisfied with the procedure.

If you would more information on how ear pinning may benefit you or your child, please contact us. It is important if the patient undergoing ear pinning is a child that he/she be comfortable with the idea of surgically altering their appearance before moving forward. A qualified and reputable plastic surgeon will recognize if the patient is confident with having ear pinning performed. For those ear pinning candidates that are undergoing surgery for the right reasons, ear pinning is a safe and effective procedure.