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Ear Pinning

Ear pinning surgery, also known as otoplasty, is a procedure designed to reshape the ears to a more natural and aesthetic appearance. This surgery is performed for individuals who are dissatisfied with the shape of their ears. This surgery is suitable for people of all ages, and it is often recommended for children before they begin school, typically around the age of 5.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ear Pinning

How Is Ear Pinning Surgery Performed?

Ear pinning surgery is commonly performed with either local or general anesthesia. The duration of the procedure may vary, primarily depending on the complexity of the ear issue, but typically lasts between 45 to 90 minutes, and it does not necessitate an overnight hospital stay. The surgery can be conducted on either the front or back of the ear, depending on the patient’s ear structure and the surgeon’s preference. Throughout the surgery, the ear cartilage is reshaped to achieve a more natural contour, and the ears are repositioned in closer proximity to the head.

After the surgery, special bandages are applied to the ears for 1-2 weeks, and they are then removed. The incisions made during the surgery are typically discreet and located behind the ear, leaving no visible scars. Ear pinning surgery does not affect one’s hearing, and patients can usually return to their normal activities shortly after the procedure. The surgery is relatively straightforward, and the recovery process is typically completed within 1-2 weeks. After this period, the “bat ear” appearance is corrected, and patients have more natural-looking ears.

Otoplasty Surgery Preparation

Once the patient’s suitability for ear reshaping surgery is confirmed, the surgeon will furnish them with comprehensive instructions for the preparation of the procedure. The patient will need to abstain from smoking and cease certain medications for a few days.

Otoplasty Aftercare

After otoplasty surgery, a headwrap is applied to your head, providing gentle pressure. Once the headwrap is removed, patients can use ice to manage the inevitable bruising and swelling. Typically, bruising subsides within two to three weeks, while swelling may persist for approximately six to eight weeks.
Beyond icing after the headwrap removal, patients can generally resume regular activities soon after the procedure. They can even cleanse the treated areas within a day, making the post-operative process relatively hassle-free.

Who Is a Candidate for Ear Pinning Surgery?

Ear pinning surgery can be performed on individuals of all ages who are dissatisfied with the size or protrusion of their ears or those with asymmetry between the ears. The ideal time for this procedure is typically after the ear cartilage has fully developed, which is usually after the age of 5, and ideally before starting school. Early intervention, especially in the preschool years, can help children adapt to school more comfortably and boost their self-confidence.

How Long Does Ear Pinning Surgery Take?

The duration of otoplasty surgery varies based on the specific procedures involved however, the surgery typically takes around two and a half to three hours.

Will There Be Scarring After Ear Pinning Surgery?

In ear pinning surgery, the incisions are made in inconspicuous areas that are not easily visible to others. Therefore, even if there is a faint scar, it is unlikely to be noticed by others.

When Can You Return to Work or School After Ear Pinning Surgery?

The recovery process for ear pinning surgery is generally straightforward. You can return to work or school as soon as 2 days after the surgery.

How Painful is Otoplasty?

Discomfort following otoplasty typically manifests as a dull ache rather than a sharp or severe stabbing pain. This type of discomfort often persists for approximately a couple of weeks.A headwrap is placed around the ears immediately after the surgery, exerting gentle pressure. This wrap remains in place for a day or so.
After its removal, patients can employ ice, which is highly effective in alleviating discomfort.Ice serves a dual purpose by numbing the area through its cold temperature and reducing swelling. Increased swelling can lead to heightened pain levels.

How Long Does It Take to Fully Recover After Ear Pinning Surgery?

The recovery process typically takes a maximum of 1-2 weeks. Patients can comfortably take showers 1-2 days after the surgery and usually return to their routine activities within a week. During this period, it’s important to protect the ears from external influences.

Does Ear Pinning Surgery Affect Hearing?

Ear pinning surgery does not affect hearing because it does not involve any intervention in the part of the ear responsible for hearing.