Pinnaplasty offers a way to change the shape and size of your ears, giving you a more balanced appearance.
Performed under local or general aesthetic, this procedure changes the shape of the cartilage so your ear lies closer to your head. This makes it a popular procedure for anyone concerned about their ears, for example if they’re worried they stick out too much or want a more balanced look overall.
Whilst this is a relatively straightforward procedure, usually taking between 2-3 hours, you’re bound to have questions about what’s involved, how much it costs, and the recovery process.
That’s exactly what we’re covering in this blog as we explore pinnaplasty in full, helping you decide if this is the right treatment for you.
At LASE Cosmetic, we work with you to decide the right procedure so that you achieve the look and feel you want. Any kind of surgical procedure can be daunting but we want to remove the anxiety around it so you feel confident from the moment you step into our clinic. Let’s get into it by understanding what pinnaplasty is.
What Is Pinnaplasty?
Pinnaplasty, also known as otoplasty or ear reshaping surgery is a procedure that allows you to change the shape or size of your ears.
There’s lots of reasons why people get pinnaplasty including:
- Feeling self-conscious about ears that stick out
- A desire for greater facial symmetry
- Ears that were injured or misshapen due to trauma
- Dissatisfaction with the results of a previous surgery
Whilst it is sometimes offered in childhood, it’s usually adulthood when people decide they want to undergo the procedure. However this is not easily available on the NHS, which is why people visit private clinics.
When you’re self-conscious about a part of your appearance it can have a negative impact on your life. From decreasing your confidence, to lowering your self-esteem, something which can seem minor to others can very much affect the way you feel about yourself.
What Happens During Pinnaplasty?
During pinnaplasty, a small incision is made behind the ear where it meets the head. This allows the surgeon access to the cartilage which can then be reshaped, folded or removed to give you a shape you’re happy with. In some cases, a small amount of skin may be removed to help achieve the desired contour and to allow the ear to sit closer to the scalp.
If your ears are asymmetrical (different shapes or positioned at slightly different angles), your surgeon can usually sort this during surgery to improve overall symmetry.
The procedure can be carried out under either local anaesthetic (where the area is numbed and you remain awake) or general anaesthetic (where you’re asleep throughout), depending on your age, medical history, and preferences. If performed under local anaesthetic, a sedative may also be offered to help you stay relaxed and comfortable.
Once the cartilage has been reshaped and the ears are in their new position, the incisions are closed with stitches, and a protective dressing or headband is usually applied to support healing.
Pinnaplasty is a straightforward procedure which is often completed within 1 to 2 hours meaning patients can usually go home the same day.
Is Pinnaplasty A Safe Procedure?
Pinnaplasty is considered a safe and straightforward procedure when carried out by a qualified surgeon. That’s why doing your research before receiving any treatment is key, ensuring you choose someone who you feel confident and safe with.
Surgeons who carry out cosmetic procedures are often members of professional bodies such as the British Association of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS) or the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS). Both of these usually have online registers, so you can easily check if your surgeon is listed.
Generally, most people recover well from the treatment and are happy with the results. In terms of side effects, this can include temporary swelling, bruising, and discomfort around the ears, which settle on their own within a few weeks.
Before going ahead, your surgeon will discuss this all with you during a consultation which is also your opportunity to ask any questions. From here, you can decide whether or not you want to go ahead now that you have all of the information regarding the procedure and recovery time.
At LASE, we believe in starting with a consultation so that we can really get to know what you’re looking for and guide you towards the best approach.
Need Help Deciding Which Treatment Is Right For You?
Book your consultation with our experts here.
How Much Does Pinnaplasty Cost?
The cost of pinnaplasty can vary depending on where you choose to have your procedure, the surgeon you use, and your specific requirements.
At LASE, prices start from £2500 for bilateral surgery (both ears). Whilst it can be tempting to shop around for the lowest price, using a qualified surgeon who you trust is more important. Take time to read reviews, visit the clinic, and have a one-to-one consultation so that you can meet your surgeon and get a real sense of their approach and experience.
Clients before and after photos are also a great way to get a realistic idea of the results you can expect and the surgeon’s approach to the procedure.
Pinnaplasty Recovery Process
Recovery from pinnaplasty will vary depending on the technique used but there are some general timelines to keep in mind helping you plan ahead a little.
After surgery, you’ll often wear a headband or bandage to support your ears and protect the area. This is typically worn for about 1 week full-time, then at night only for a few more weeks.
Swelling can take 2-3 months to fully settle, while bruising tends to fade within 2-3 weeks.
Bearing this in mind, most patients return to work or school after 7-10 days, although you should avoid strenuous activity for at least 6 weeks.
It’s also important to sleep on your back during early recovery to avoid putting pressure on the ears.
Pinnaplasty FAQs
Is pinnaplasty painful?
Not usually. As with any type of surgery, there might be some discomfort afterwards but most patients find it manageable and stop needing pain relief after a few days. Our surgeons will always talk you through the expected recovery time so you know what to expect before any procedure.
Can otoplasty be reversed?
This will depend on the type of surgery you’ve had and how much time has passed since the procedure. If the surgery was recent, there’s a good chance that any sutures used can be released or removed. However, if the procedure was carried out several months or years ago, or if cartilage scoring techniques were used, it’s less likely that the results can be partially or fully reversed.
How long do the results of ear surgery last?
The procedure offers permanent results so you won’t need top-up treatments and the effects are expected to last a lifetime, saving you repeat visits to the clinic.
What Is Pinnaplasty and How Much Does Pinnaplasty Cost?
If you’re self-conscious about the shape or size of your ears, then pinnaplasty can be a great, safe solution. With long-lasting results, it also means you won’t need to undergo repeat surgery which saves you money and time at the clinic.
Whether you’re looking to improve symmetry, reduce the prominence of your ears, or simply feel more confident in your own appearance, pinnaplasty can be a great choice of treatment.
At LASE Cosmetic, we have 40 years of combined experience in the aesthetic industry, helping clients look and feel their best. With one-to-one consultations and expert advice from qualified pinnaplasty surgeons, we work with you to determine the best approach to achieve your desired outcome. With prices starting from £2,500, we’re here to guide you every step on the way. Book your consultation with us today and receive expert, tailored advice.
Need Help Deciding Which Treatment Is Right For You?
Book your consultation with our experts here.
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