Ears that protrude more than usual (bat ears) occur in 1 in 20 people in Australia. Most commonly this is noticeable in children, though some adults develop concerns with this later. Teasing about prominent ears often occurs when children start school, and may affect your child’s self esteem and happiness. If your child is troubled please arrange to see one of our plastic surgeons to talk about their options.
Ear pinning surgery, also called otoplasty, is a procedure that reshapes or repositions ears that stick out more than usual. Around one in 20 Australians has prominent ears, and this is often noticed in childhood. Children may experience teasing at school, which can affect confidence and self-esteem, while some adults choose surgery later in life for cosmetic reasons.
During ear pinning surgery, a small incision is made behind the ear, keeping scars hidden. Fine sutures are used to reshape the ear cartilage into a more natural position, and the skin is closed with dissolving stitches. The aim is to create a balanced, natural appearance that blends well with the face.
While ear pinning surgery is generally safe, all procedures carry some risks. Complications are rare but may include;
Your surgeon will only recommend otoplasty surgery if they believe the benefits outweigh these risks and will discuss them with you in detail during consultation.
Good aftercare helps ensure long-lasting results from otoplasty surgery.
If your child has ears which stick out from the scalp more than usual, or significant difference between the 2 sides, they may receive unwanted attention and teasing. Otoplasty surgery can help, and is normally performed any time after 6 years when the ears are almost fully grown.
In adults, otoplasty can be performed at any age if you have cosmetic concern about ear appearance.
Individual suitability, type of surgery and expectations of outcome will be discussed with your plastic surgeon at your consultation.
Substantial improvement will be noticed when the head bandage is removed at 1 week after surgery. Most swelling has resolved by 6 weeks after surgery to show the long term result. Results are usually long-lasting though occasionally a heavy knock on the sports field can disturb things and need further attention.
When otoplasty is undertaken in children under 18 years of age, the majority of the cost is rebatable through Medicare and standard private health insurance. This does require a referral from your family doctor.
When otoplasty is performed in an adult, it is considered by Medicare rules to be cosmetic – no rebate is available from Medicare or private health insurance.
After your consultation, a detailed quote will be provided to you including the surgeon fee, anaesthetic fee and hospital fee.
Most otoplasty procedures take between 1 and 2 hours, depending on whether one or both ears are treated.
Discomfort is usually mild. Most patients manage with simple pain relief, and soreness improves as healing progresses.
You can use this form to request a call back.
Please be aware that all surgical procedures require a consultation with our plastic surgeons to allow a thorough assessment and discussion of your specific needs.
Plastic Surgery Central
235 Greenhill Rd
Dulwich SA 5065
