How is ear reshaping surgery performed?

Ear reshaping surgery (also known as otoplasty or pinnaplasty) is an operation to reshape the cartilage in the ear. Ear splinting is an alternative treatment that may be used on children under six months old.

Ear splinting should be carried out as soon as possible after a baby is born. Evidence suggests the procedure is more effective if started in the first three months of life.

Ear splinting

Ear splinting is a simple and painless procedure. Small splints (supports) are placed on the outer groove of the ear cartilage. They are kept in place by small strips of tape. The baby is ear will be taped to the side of their head with a larger piece of tape.
The splints help to keep the ears in the new position and prevent them protruding outwards.
The length of time splinting is required depends on when treatment begins. The earlier splinting is started, the less time the splints will be needed. For example, if splinting starts when an infant is a few weeks old, it will only be needed for around two weeks. However, if splinting starts when your child is four or five months old, the splints will be needed for a few months.

Ear Reshaping (Otoplasty) is a Solution for

1.Improving the shape/position of the ears
2.In children, correcting a defect in ear structure to make them appear normal

Predictability The cartilage has a memory and tends to want to go back to its original shape; hence, the need for a pressure dressing for the first week and the need to continue wearing it at night for a few additional weeks after your otoplasty surgery.

Discomfort during procedure None. It is performed under local with intravenous sedation or general anesthesia.

Downtime One week.

Cost The cost of plastic surgery of the ear depends on the anatomy (shape and thickness of skin and cartilage).