face procedures
Otoplasty – Prominent Ear Correction
What is Otoplasty?
Otoplasty, commonly referred to as ear surgery or ear pinning, is a cosmetic surgical procedure aimed at altering the shape, size, or position of the ears. While primarily performed for aesthetic reasons, such as correcting protruding ears or reshaping misshapen ones, otoplasty can also address functional issues related to the ears.
Why Have a Prominent Ear Correction?
Approximately 1 to 2% of the population in the United Kingdom consider their ears to be too prominent. In many cases the shape and lie of the ears is inherited, and a family trend can be seen. Having a prominent ear correction, also known as otoplasty, can be motivated by several factors, both practical and psychological:
Cosmetic Enhancement
Prominent ears can be a source of self-consciousness and insecurity for many individuals, leading them to seek corrective surgery to improve their appearance. Otoplasty can address concerns about ear size, shape, or position, helping individuals achieve a more balanced and symmetrical facial profile.
Social and Psychological Benefits
Protruding ears can attract unwanted attention and teasing, particularly during childhood and adolescence. Correcting prominent ears through otoplasty can alleviate social stigma and improve self-esteem, allowing individuals to feel more confident and comfortable in social interactions.
Functional Improvement
In addition to cosmetic concerns, otoplasty can also address functional issues related to the ears, such as improving hearing or correcting congenital deformities that may affect ear function.
How is Otoplasty Surgery Performed?
Otoplasty is an operation which adjusts the shape of the cartilage within the ear to create the missing folds and to allow the ear to lie closer to the side of the head. Because the operation is carried out from behind the ears, a small scar is left close to the groove between the ear and the side of the head.
The procedure can be carried out under local anaesthetic, but in young children a general anaesthetic is usually required. Where the lobe of the ear is especially large, a small procedure to reduce its size may also be required.
An incision line is made behind the ear close to the grove between the ear and the side of the head.
Our Doctors
Michael McBride FRCS (Plast)
