Prominent Ear Correction

Pinnaplasty & Otoplasty Ear Reshaping

Prominent ear correction surgery, also known as Pinnaplasty or Otoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure aimed at reshaping or repositioning protruding ears to improve facial symmetry and balance.

Suitable for children aged 5 and above or adults, the surgery delivers permanent results by altering the ear cartilage to maintain its new shape. Recovery is typically straightforward, with mild swelling, discomfort, and the use of protective bandages for 1–2 weeks. Risks such as infection, scarring, or asymmetry are minimal when performed by an experienced surgeon.

Pinnaplasty is a safe and effective solution for enhancing confidence and addressing aesthetic concerns related to ear prominence.

What is Prominent Ear Correction?

Prominence of the ear is usually a result of either incomplete folding of the ear cartilage in utero or excess prominence of the bowl of the ear from the side of the head. Folding failure can be treated soon after birth while the cartilage is still pliable – small corrections can be achieved by taping with a suitable stent. However, as the cartilage becomes more mature and stiffer, invariably a surgical procedure is necessary.

This can be undertaken at a young age around 5 to 6 years or at any stage later as an adult. With Pinnaplasty it’s important to achieve symmetry in both the prominence and the orientation of the ear and lobule. The average projection from one side of the head is between 15 to 18 mm, so a technique that is able to fine tune and match one side to the other is important.

We recommend a surgical procedure via a small incision placed behind the ear which allows reforming the folds and setting the ear back by employing permanent buried stitches. Other treatments involve scoring, scratching or even cutting the cartilage but they have a higher complication rate and are generally not advised.

Pinnaplasty can be undertaken as a day case either as an isolated procedure or in combination with rhinoplasty. Absorbable sutures are left in the skin behind the ear and a light protective bandage is worn for usually no more than 3 to 5 days.

What Our Patients Say

I had a very successful revision rhinoplasty.

The outcome is exactly as Mr East visually mocked up before the surgery.

I had a significantly deviated nose, septum and bones. Incredibly Mr East managed to address all of these issues. Though my surgery took many hours the work done in that time was exceptional.

After the surgery the swelling was pretty good. The entire recovery timeline went exactly as Mr East said it would. No surprises before or after surgery.

Despite my complex surgery costing a large amount I consider it good value because of the flawless outcome.
I'd recommend Mr East to anyone, especially if the surgery is complex.

Guy Tristram

My journey with Charles East has been absolutely extraordinary from the initial consultation to post operation.

Charles carefully examined my nose in great depth and explained the procedure carefully to put me at ease.

As a result of his expertise, my nose looks amazing and natural and most importantly it was incredible that no one noticed the change!

The decision to choose rhinoplasty with Charles was the best decision and I am relieved I do not have to inject filler in my nose ever again.

Thank you to Charles and his team.

Doctify

My experience with Charles East was wonderful throughout.

I came to him because I've had trouble with my breathing for a few years now, and getting my adenoids removed and straightening my septum ended up being a really straight-forward process and I felt like I was in the best hands possible.

Thank you to Charles and the whole team for helping me breathe again. Can't wait to catch up again soon!

Sonia Horgan

I had my revision rhinoplasty with Charles East and I am genuinely happy to a degree I never thought was possible.

His experience and knowledge was obvious from the first video consultation. I had made the mistake of having my first rhinoplasty done by a turkish surgeon who works in London and I stupidly believed his self proclaimed kingdom.

Charles East team are brilliant and caring, I was scared of going through another operation but I feel nothing buy relief and joy that I can now get past my turkish nightmare.

In wanting to save money I have had to pay twice.

Doctify

I had been researching Rhinoplasty options for some time, and I simply could not be happier that I chose Rhinoplasty London.

I immediately felt like I was in expert hands!

Dr Charles and Miss Badia both made sure I was 100% happy with my shape before we went forward, and explained every part of the procedure to me.

My experience on the day was first class and like clockwork, and after the surgery and recovery I felt like they were right alongside me – the follow up care and concern was just amazing and the daily updates really put me at ease.

I seriously could not be happier!

For anyone who wants an absolutely expert job please do not look further than Lydia and Charles!

Savannah Trejbal

I totally trusted the expertise of Charles East, knowing he would proceed professionally and he is detail oriented.

His 30 years experience really reassured me at first and finally made me at complete ease after our first face to face meeting.

I am thrilled with the results and delighted to recommend his clinic.

Sandra Safta Waterhouse

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Prominent Ear Correction Surgery?

Prominent ear correction, also known as Pinnaplasty or Otoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure designed to reshape or reposition protruding ears closer to the head. It improves the balance and proportion of the ears, enhancing facial harmony.

At What Age Can Prominent Ear Correction Be Performed?

Prominent ear correction can be performed on children as young as 5 or 6 years old, once the ears are fully developed. Adults can also undergo the procedure at any age if they are in good health and seek aesthetic improvement.

Is Pinnaplasty a Permanent Solution?

Yes, Pinnaplasty typically provides permanent results. Once corrected, the ear cartilage maintains its new shape. However, surgical outcomes can vary depending on individual healing processes.

What Is the Recovery Process Like After Otoplasty?

Recovery is straightforward, with mild swelling and discomfort lasting a few days. A protective bandage is usually worn for 1–2 weeks, and most people return to normal activities within 1–2 weeks. Full results are visible after healing.

Are There Risks or Complications Associated With Ear Correction Surgery?

As with any surgical procedure, risks include infection, scarring, temporary numbness, or asymmetry. Pinnaplasty/Otoplasty is generally considered safe when performed by an experienced surgeon. A thorough consultation helps minimise risks and align expectations.