What is otoplasty?
Otoplasty, commonly referred to as prominent ear correction or ear pinning, reshapes the ear cartilage to bring the ears closer to the head or improve their symmetry. The results are permanent and, when performed well, entirely natural in appearance. The procedure is suitable for adults and for children from around the age of five, once the ear cartilage has reached its adult size.
The procedure
Surgery is performed under local anaesthetic for adults, or general anaesthetic for younger patients. A small incision is made behind the ear, the cartilage is reshaped and secured in its new position, and the incision is closed. The resulting scar sits in the natural crease behind the ear and is not visible.
The operation typically takes one to two hours. Most patients are discharged the same day.
Recovery
A head bandage is worn for the first week to protect the ears during initial healing. Most adults return to desk-based work within a week; children typically return to school after seven to ten days. A softer headband is worn at night for several weeks to protect the ears during sleep.
Final results are visible once swelling has settled, usually within six to eight weeks.
Is this procedure right for me?
The best candidates are patients in good general health with realistic expectations of what surgery can achieve. Mr Lewis will assess your ears at consultation, discuss the available options in detail, and provide a clear picture of the likely outcome before any decision is made.
Your consultation
All consultations are with Mr Lewis personally. There is no obligation to proceed, and patients are encouraged to take time to consider their options before committing to surgery.
