Dr. Buckinghams Q&A

Question:
Where are the incisions located for ear surgery? Are they noticeable?

Answer:
The incisions for ear pinning surgery, otoplasty, are entirely behind the ear and are usually impossible to see.  They are not a concern.  Certainly there is a risk of more significant scarring, but we have never seen that problem. 

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Question:
What exactly is ear pinning?

Answer:
Ear pinning is the common term for an otoplasty.  Otoplasty is a procedure where ears that protrude from the side of the head farther than desired are reshaped into a more aesthetic position.  This is performed with light sedation and local anesthesia through a small incision on the back of the ear.  The ears are swollen for about a week to the extent that it is noticeable and then sore for a few more weeks.  It is a very reliable and satisfactory procedure. 

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Question:
How long is the typical ear pinning surgery?

Answer:
Ear pinning surgery, otoplasty, usually takes about 1.5 hours.  It will sometimes be as short as one hour and sometimes as long as two.  The longevity depends on how well the ears "bend" to the new position and how easy it is to match the second ear with the first.  Usually it goes very smoothly and the results are excellent. 

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Question:
What type of ear shape benefits the most from an ear pinning surgery?

Answer:
There are usually two abnormalities in prominent ears.  One is that the fold in the ear is too flat and the other is that the base of the ear sticks out too much from the head.  The fold is referred to as the anti-helical fold.  A patient can simulate the result by molding the ear with their hand.  The base of the ear is called the conchal bowl.  This can also be pressed closer to the head with the hand.  The surgical version of repair creates a more significant fold and moves the conchal bowl closer to the head. 

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Question:
I’d like to get otoplasty. Are there degrees to how much the ears are pinned back? I don’t want them to be flat against my head, but also don’t want them to stick out as much.

Answer:
There are standard published measurements for the ideal distance an ear should be placed from the side of the head.  While these provide a useful guide artistry also is important.  Achieving a result that improves the appearance of your ears without making them flat should be able to be achieved with otoplasty surgery.

Posted by Dr. Buckingham