Otoplasty also referred to as ear surgery, is a procedure used to change the shape, position and size of your ears. This ear correction surgery is performed to reposition protruding ears as pinning ears back can decreased the size of the ears.
Before ear pinning surgery, you may prefer to wearing your hair tied back or you may even favour hairstyles that cover your ears. Furthermore, wearing a hat or helmet can be very difficult for those with prominent ears or large ears that are suitable for ear reduction surgery.
The surgical goal of ear correction surgery is to reduce the protrusion of the ears.
What is Otoplasty?
Otoplasty or ear surgery is most often performed to reduce the size of protruding ears and bring them to a less protruding position. Pinnaplasty is an ear-pinning back surgery technique that is used for those whose ears protrude. This type of otoplasty repositions your ears to bring them closer towards your head.
Otoplasty Benefits
- Ears are less protruding and closer to the head
- It's performed as an outpatient procedure which means you can go home on the day of surgery.
- You will be left with minimal visible scarring as incisions are made behind the ear.
Sun Safety
With the intensity of the sun in Australia wearing hats is a must for sun protection, some of our Otoplasty surgery Gold Coast patients state that wearing hats was difficult. Those with prominent ears may struggle to find hats that fit them comfortably. AEar-pinning surgery procedure may address this issue by correcting the position of their ears and allowing patients to wear regular-sized hats without any discomfort.
More Hair Style Options
Your ears are an important feature of your face and having protruding ears can cause people difficulty in wearing shorter hairstyles or being able to wear your hair up. Post surgery our patients find that there are more hair style options for them.
Guide to Facial Surgery
Facial Rejuvenation
Suitable Candidates
Individuals with ear deformities may be good candidates for an ear operation, including those who prefer their ears pinned back. This surgery is available for children and teenagers, please note, that children must be over the age of 5, before they can have their ears corrected.
A good candidate is someone who is well-informed before going ahead with the surgery and has realistic expectations for the procedure results.
As with every surgery, healthy individuals will heal more quickly and are at less risk for complications. Smoking can increase the risk of complications, patients are required to be non-smokers.
Otoplasty Before and After Images
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After
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After
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After
Ear Pinning Surgery Procedure
Pre-operative Instructions
Before your surgery, it’s important to plan ahead and arrange for someone to take you home from the hospital, as driving will not be possible due to the effects of the anaesthesia. Additionally, make sure to have someone available to provide care for you during the first 24 hours after your surgery.
Otoplasty Procedure Steps
First, you will undergo general anaesthetic for your procedure so you will be asleep during the surgery. Generally, the entire procedure takes roughly two hours to complete.
Then depending on the type of otoplasty recommended, different techniques may be used and will determine where incisions are made. Dr Doyle will generally make incisions on the backs of your ear, where the ear meets the head.
To correct ears that need to be pinned back, the excess cartilage and skin is removed. Afterwards, the cartilage is rearranged into a more narrow pin-ear position and secured with stitches.
Otoplasty Medicare Rebate
If you are under 18, Medicare may cover part of the expenses related to correcting a deformed ear if it is characterised by an absence of anti-helical fold, scapha or concha. However, for this type of coverage to apply, certain strict criteria must be met.
To find out if otoplasty could be covered through your health insurance plan, please check here.
Recovery and Aftercare
It’s important to be aware that your Otoplasty results will vary depending on individual factors such as age, health and other specifics. Generally speaking, a full otoplasty recovery can take up to 6 weeks.
During this period you should wear a compression garment over your ears to reduce swelling and bruising; plus any medication prescribed by your doctor should help in relieving discomfort post-surgery.
Risks and Complications of Otoplasty
As with every surgery, there are possible risks and complications, rest assured these can be minimised. Dr Doyle will be happy to cover every possible risk during your initial consultation. Below are a few of the possible risks.
- Scars may be concealed behind or within your ear folds, and their visibility will fade over time.
- Asymmetry can occur due to changes during the healing process.
- Overcorrection is a risk that can make ears appear too pinned back. Choosing a specialised and experienced surgeon is crucial to minimise the risk of overcorrection.
Minimise Risks
To ensure that your post-operative recovery is as safe and efficient as possible, it’s important to take proactive steps towards taking good care of yourself before, during, and after surgery. If you are in excessive pain or are worried your incisions may be infected, don’t hesitate to seek medical attention.
Here are some additional practices we highly recommend following in order to reduce any potential risks.
- Keep your incision site clean and dry
- Wear your compression headband as recommended
- Follow a healthy diet
- Follow an exercise routine but avoid strenuous activities until your surgeon has cleared you to do so
- Avoid smoking
- Avoid sun exposure to decrease your chances of darkening scars
- Attend follow-up appointments with your surgeon and follow their advice
Book a Consultation
If you are considering otoplasty, you can book a consultation using the form below. Dr MarkDoyle will thoroughly review everything you need to know and what to expect when it comes to Otoplasty surgery.
About Dr Mark Doyle FRACS (Plast) – Specialist Plastic Surgeon
Dr Mark Doyle is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon with over thirty years of experience. He specialises in face lift surgery in Gold Coast and Brisbane, and also offers a range of body and breast procedures.
Dr Doyle is a fully qualified Doctor and surgeon. He has completed all required training to be a Specialist Plastic Surgeon and is driven by an committed to providing excellent standards of care.
NEXT STEPS
Do Your Research
- Read the Website and Blogs relevant to your procedure
- Read our Frequently Asked Questions
- Learn about the Risks and Complications of Surgery
- Download our Plastic Surgery Guides
- Browse Dr Doyle’s YouTube Channel
What to Bring to Your Plastic Surgeon Consultation
- Bring a friend or relative for support and discussion regarding your choices
- Take notes and read all provided information thoroughly
- Read about what to expect in your Initial Surgery Consultation
Book Your Plastic Surgery Consultation
- Get a Referral from your GP or specialist – this is required to book a consultation with Dr. Doyle.
- Email us or call on 07 5598 0988 to arrange your consultation appointment.
- Pay your $300 Consultation Fee in advance to secure your consultation.
Please contact us to arrange to book a consultation with our Specialist Plastic Surgeon or to speak with our Patient Care Advisor.
Send an enquiry form today or phone 07 5598 0988 during Clinic Hours.
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*DISCLAIMER: All information on Dr Mark Doyle website is general and is not intended to be medical advice nor does it constitute a doctor-patient relationship. Results can vary significantly and depend on individual patient circumstances. All images on this website, unless specified as real patient images, are stock images used for illustrative purposes only. Surgery risks and complications will be covered in detail during a consultation with your surgeon. Book a consult for details regarding your cosmetic surgery procedure.
Dr. Mark Doyle AHPRA Registration: Dr Mark Doyle MED0001375519 Specialist Plastic Surgery – MBBS FRACS FRCS
