If you are someone who has experienced discomfort or a lack of confidence around the size, shape or projection of your ears, you’ll know how much of an impact it can have on your mental wellbeing.
Though ears may be a small part of our faces, if they cause insecurity, they can have a huge impact on how you feel about yourself, which is why many people seek a long-term fix, usually in the form of Otoplasty, or ear pinning surgery.
At New Birkdale Clinic, we provide Octoplasty, and we have seen the difference the cosmetic procedure can make to an individual’s happiness.
In this guide, we will outline exactly what Octoplasty is and what to expect from the ear pinning operation.
What is Otoplasty?
Otoplasty, commonly known as ear pinning or ear reshaping surgery, is a procedure that alters the position, size or shape of the outer ear. The goal of ear otoplasty surgery is to correct prominent ears, improve symmetry or address congenital deformities or trauma-related damage.
The procedure is completely aesthetic and has no impact on hearing.
Who Needs Ear Pinning Surgery?
Otoplasty surgery is ideal for individuals over the age of 5 who are troubled by the shape, prominence, or size of their ears. The surgery is also not entirely about looks and can help people who have experienced ear trauma due to injury, birth complications, or discomfort caused by the shape, size, or asymmetry of their ears.
The reasons for undergoing the surgery do not need to be complex, with many choosing ear pinning to improve the appearance of their ears for their own aesthetic tastes.
It is recommended that you be at least 5 years old when undergoing the surgery, as your ears are not stable enough to hold the necessary stitches before then, as the cartilage is not fully developed.
What Happens During the Procedure?
When undergoing Otoplasty, you can expect to undergo the following steps:
Anaesthesia
Before your surgery can start, you need anaesthesia. For children who may find the procedure to be distressing, general anaesthesia is used to ensure that there is no upset or disruption.
For adults, it is standard practice to perform otoplasty under local anaesthesia, numbing the area around the ear.
Incision
Once the anaesthesia has taken effect, the surgeon will make a small incision. To avoid obvious scarring, this incision is usually made in the natural crease behind your ear, helping the scar blend in with your natural anatomy.
Cartilage Sculpting
Through the incision, the plastic surgeon can assess the underlying excess cartilage and determine what adjustments are needed to achieve the patient’s desired look.
The cartilage is then reshaped, folded or removed to improve the ear’s appearance and positioning.
Repositioning
Internal sutures are then used to pin the ears into position and maintain the surgeon’s new ear shape. In ear pinning surgery, the most sought-after result is the ears being positioned closer to the head, and this can be achieved with cleverly positioned stitching.
Closure
Once the surgeon is happy with the positioning, shape and size of the ear, the previously made incisions are then closed with sutures.
Bandaging
To minimise swelling and protect the ears, a dressing is then applied around the head. The surgery should be complete within 1-2 hours, and unless complications have occurred, the patient should be able to go home the same day.
Recovery and Aftercare
After your procedure, you should expect to follow the recovery and aftercare timeline below.
Immediate Post Surgery
Following your surgery, you must wear a sturdy, thick bandage around your head for at least 5 days. This bandage is essential for reducing any swelling that will occur after the procedure and protecting your incision as it heals and your stitches dissolve.
At this stage of your recovery, it is essential that you get plenty of rest, drink plenty of fluids, and walk around every few hours to help prevent blood clots from forming in your body.
It is essential to keep your incision area clean and dry, so avoid washing your hair for as long as you comfortably can while you are recovering. Following these steps will help you to steer clear of any potential risks and complications.
First Week Recovery Expectations After Ear Correction Surgery
After the first week, your initial bandage will be removed and replaced with a lighter, less protective headband that you are expected to wear for 1-2 weeks. This continues to control your swelling and allows your ears to heal properly and settle into their new positions.
Pain Management
Pain should not be too intense after your surgery, and incisions are minimal. If your pain is severe after the surgery, your surgeon will prescribe pain medication to help, but once the surgery starts to heal, you can use over-the-counter medication to ease your pain.
When to Return to Work
Thanks to the minimal nature of ear surgery, you can expect to return to work around a week after your ear pinning procedure. While slight discomfort may still be present, you should be able to return to work without much pain, but you will have to wear your protective head bandage.
Activity Restrictions
After your Otoplasty, it is recommended that you avoid activities for at least 1-2 weeks while your body heals, with an advised 5-6 week waiting period for contact sports and strenuous activities.
How to Sleep After Ear Pinning Surgery
Sleeping may be the most challenging task after Otoplasty surgery, and it is recommended that you do need sleep on your side at all during recovery.
You should sleep on your back with your head elevated on 1-2 thick pillows, as this will help to reduce swelling and pressure on your ears.
Results: What to Expect
After Otoplasty surgery, you can expect improved ear symmetry and a more natural look. The procedure reduces protrusion, bringing the ears closer to the head and enhancing overall facial balance. Many patients experience a boost in self-esteem and confidence, as they no longer have to worry about their ears being a focal point.
As recovery progresses and swelling decreases, the final results typically reveal a refined appearance, allowing for more versatility in hairstyles. Otoplasty can lead to both physical improvements and positive emotional benefits, enhancing your quality of life and self-image.
Get Surgery With New Birkdale Clinic Today
Now that you know more about what to expect when undergoing the Otoplasty procedure, it should be clear that the procedure is quite minimal and will not cause too much discomfort or disruption in your life.
At New Birkdale Clinic, our experienced surgeons have performed countless Otoplasty procedures, and we are here to help you regain your confidence.
Get in touch with us today to book your consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Otoplasty
Is ear pinning surgery painful?
Past patients have described the pain experienced after ear pinning surgery as mild discomfort, with the pain immediately following the surgery being mild to moderate.
How long do results last?
The results of your ear pinning surgery should be permanent and last a lifetime. You can expect to see the true results of your procedure around a year after your surgery.
Will my ears look natural?
Your ears will look natural, but this all depends on using a surgeon with experience in the surgery.
Can I wear glasses/headphones?
It is recommended that you avoid putting pressure on your ears for several weeks after your surgery to allow them to heal properly. While we understand it may be difficult to go without your glasses, it is advised that you avoid resting them on your ears.
Headphones should ideally be avoided for up to 2 months following your procedure, and you can use earphones as a safer alternative for up to 5 days after surgery.
When can I exercise?
Light exercise can be resumed a week after your surgery, but you must avoid more strenuous activities for 4-6 weeks after your surgery.
What if I’m not happy with the results?
It is important to note that it may take up to a year for the true results of your Otoplasty to settle, but if you are still not happy with the appearance of your surgery, revision is an option.
