designed to reduce the size of the ears. Commonly referred to as "ear pinning," it is a plastic surgery option that can greatly enhance a person’s appearance and self esteem. Read the information below to learn more about the ear surgery procedure, recovery from surgery, otoplasty cost and insurance coverage, and more.

Types of Ear Surgery

Depending on the individual problem with the ears, there are several different types of ear surgery that can be performed by plastic surgeons. Cosmetic or reconstructive otoplasty can correct the following:

• Large ears
• Small ears
• Protruding ears
• Cupped ears
• Cauliflower ears
• Folded ears

Other circumstances, such as missing parts of the ear, can also be fixed through reconstructive ear surgery. The type of otoplasty procedure you undergo will be determined during your initial consultation with a plastic surgeon.

Candidates for Otoplasty

The most common candidates for cosmetic ear surgery are children between the ages of five and fourteen. The ears are fully grown at this time and the sooner the child undergoes otoplasty, the less teasing and embarrassment they will experience in the future. Ear plastic surgery is also an excellent option for adults who suffer from large, protruding ears or stretched earlobes.

Ear Pinning – About the Plastic Surgery Procedure

The ear pinning plastic surgery procedure is usually performed under a local anesthetic with a sedative for adults and general anesthesia for children.

To begin otoplasty, the surgeon will make an incision behind the ear to expose the cartilage. The cartilage will then be reshaped, the excess skin will be removed, and the ear will be attached to the desired head position with non-removable stitches or sutures.

Cosmetic ear surgery generally lasts between one and two hours, depending on the extent of the surgery.

Recovery from Ear Surgery

After cosmetic ear surgery, the patient’s head will be wrapped in bandages to promote proper healing. These will usually be replaced with a lighter bandage after a few days. All bandages will be completely removed after a week or so.

Side effects of otoplasty generally include minimal bruising and throbbing or aching of the ears. There may also be significant swelling after otoplasty; this only lasts for a few days after surgery and can be relieved with medication. Normal activities for both children and adults can be resumed after about a week of recovery; however, any significant activities that can damage the ear should be avoided until the ears are completely healed.

Otoplasty Risks

Cosmetic ear surgery, like any other plastic surgery procedure, involves risks; however, with otoplasty, they are usually minimal. The risks or complications associated with both reconstructive and cosmetic ear surgery include:

• Blood clot in the ear - this can be removed with a needle or may dissolve naturally
• Infection in the cartilage – generally relieved with medication
• Loosening of sutures - which may cause the ear to return to its original position
• Overcorrection of the ears – this places them too close to the head

These complications are rare and most can be relieved with medication or simple treatment. Choosing a plastic surgeon that has experience and expertise in otoplasty may decrease the risks associated with this procedure.

Ear Surgery (Otoplasty) Cost

The average otoplasty cost depends on various factors, including:

• Surgeon Experience
• Location
• Extent of Surgery
• Pre- and Post-Operative Care

Other factors can influence the cost of otoplasty; however, ear surgery, as with other plastic surgery procedures, is an individualized process and the exact prices vary from patient to patient.

Cosmetic ear surgery usually runs between $2,000 and $5,000 and this cost normally does not include pre- and post-operative care and medication. Though this estimate may be intimidating for prospective patients, most surgeons offer payment plans and other financing options to make the process affordable.

Consult a Plastic Surgeon

To learn more about the ear pinning procedure, otoplasty cost, and other ear surgery information