Otoplasty (Ear Pinning)

Otoplasty is a surgical ear procedure designed to improve upon the position, shape and/or size of the ears. Most commonly, otoplasty is performed with the goal of “pinning back” ears that protrude or stick out laterally. It is an appearance that is typically present from birth. While this protrusion of the ears can be on one or both sides and vary in severity, addressing this cosmetic concern with an otoplasty can help to bring better balance and proportion to a patient’s face. Dr. Christine Blaine at Blaine Plastic Surgery in New York offers otoplasty, or ear pinning, as well as other ear reshaping surgeries.

Protruding or prominent ears are noticeable and hard to hide. Many children who have ears that stick out are teased from an early age, and called “Dumbo” or other unkind names. Ears that protrude are usually completely normal in size and function, and they are only more visible due to their position. Otoplasty, or ear pinning surgery, can be used to bring the ears closer to the scalp, minimizing their prominence for a more balanced appearance with the other facial and head features.

How Is Ear Pinning Performed?

Each otoplasty is performed differently, depending on the patient and prominence of the ears. Mild cases may only require sutures to taper the ears closer to the head. For more pronounced ear protrusion, incisions behind the ear may be needed to remove excess cartilage or tissue to reposition the ear and pin the ear back.

Ear pinning can be performed on children and adults. Children who are at least 5-6 years of age with fully developed ears can undergo ear pinning, or otoplasty, to reposition their ears before they begin school.

If you or your child have protruding or oddly shaped ears and are interested in learning more about otoplasty, contact us at Blaine Plastic Surgery today to schedule your appointment at our Huntington, NYC Midtown or Staten Island location. Dr. Christine Blaine and our all-female staff offer a friendly, compassionate environment in which to undergo your ear plastic surgery.