Ear Pinning (Pinnaplasty)
The procedure to pin back the ears is called pinnaplasty. At this moment in time we can only perform the procedure if there is a medical need, rather than for cosmetic purposes. The procedure is most commonly carried out on children although adults can also have the procedure.
What does pinnaplasty involve?
Are there any side effects of pinnaplasty?
What does pinnaplasty involve?
The operation is carried out either under a general anaesthetic or a local anaesthetic, dependent on your situation, by a plastic surgeon or specialist ear nose and throat surgeon. A small incision is made behind the ear and a small amount of cartilage is removed. The remaining cartilage is remoulded into the desired shape, this then enables the ear to be stitched back into a flatter position, closer to the head. The whole procedure typically takes 1-2 hours and if done under a local anaesthetic, the patient can usually go home the same day.
How long is the recovery?
Initially, there is likely to be some pain and discomfort which can be eased with pain killers. There is also likely to be some bruising and some patients report numbness or tingling in the ear. You will also need to wear a dressing around the head, covering the ears for up to a week to aid with holding the ears in their new position. Depending on the type of stitches used, these will be removed after 5 - 10 days though this will not be necessary if they are dissolvable.
Strenuous activity should be avoided for the first 2 weeks and activities such as contact sports and swimming for 6 weeks. Children are usually able to return to school after 1-2 weeks. The full results of the procedure are usually visible after approximately 6 weeks.
Are there any side effects of pinnaplasty?
All surgical procedures carry risks such as infections, pain following the procedure and bleeding from the site of the surgery. Pinnaplasty carries its own additional risks such as the ears no longer being symmetrical, stiff ears or failure of the procedure (meaning that the ears begin to protrude again over time)
Complications such as these are the exception rather than the norm, and in the very unlikely event that any issues were to arise, our staff will be on hand to provide assistance.
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