Ear Pinning (Otoplasty)

Ear surgery, also known as otoplasty, repositions ears when they protrude too far. Patients both young and old who struggle with overly protruding or large ears may find relief in the skills of Indiana plastic surgeon Dr. David Robinson, who performs ear surgery here in Munster and Valparaiso.

Who’s a Candidate for Otoplasty?

The goal of ear pinning surgery is to improve the aesthetic appearance of one’s ears. Children in particular can benefit from this procedure because it can prevent or stop persistent teasing from other children.

Ear pinning surgery at our Indiana plastic surgery practice can address concerns such as:

• Ears that are out of proportion
• Ears that protrude too far from the head
• Ears that are misshapen

Candidates should be healthy non-smokers who understand the risks and benefits of this procedure. Children should be at least four years old, after the ears have fully developed.

How Ear Pinning Surgery Works

For adults undergoing this procedure, a local anesthetic with sedation will be used, while children often require a general anesthetic. The procedure requires two to three hours to complete.

When beginning, Dr. Robinson will make a small incision at the back of the ear to access the cartilage. By removing and sculpting the cartilage, the ear can be repositioned. Finally, Dr. Robinson will fold the ears back closer to the head and place sutures to close the incisions. A head bandage will then be applied, which will help maintain the new position of the ears.