Otoplasty Manchester
Pinnaplasty Manchester
Otoplasty
Pinnaplasty Manchester
Pinnaplasty, often referred to as otoplasty or ear pinning, is a surgical procedure that aims to alter the shape, position, or size of the ears. Most commonly, pinnaplasty involves pinning back prominent ears so that they appear closer to the head. However, the procedure can also address issues such as asymmetry, congenital ear deformities, or damage resulting from injury.
Prominent Ear Surgery
What is Otoplasty?
Treatment Overview
People may seek pinnaplasty for a variety of reasons. In many cases, patients feel self-conscious or experience lowered self-esteem because they believe their ears stick out too far. Others might have uneven ears (one ear is more prominent than the other) or ear shapes that have been affected by certain congenital conditions. Regardless of the reason for seeking pinnaplasty, modern surgical techniques can effectively address aesthetic ear concerns, offering improved facial balance and symmetry.
Pinnaplasty has been performed for many decades and is generally regarded as a safe procedure when carried out by a qualified professional. With medical and surgical advancements, surgeons can now achieve more refined, natural-looking outcomes that complement a person’s overall appearance. For those seeking pinnaplasty or otoplasty Manchester, there are plenty of well-regarded cosmetic surgeons who specialise in ear correction.
Pinnaplasty Before and Afters
Pinnaplasty
Otoplasty Manchester at Deansgate Hospital
Manchester is recognised for its world-class medical facilities such as Deansgate Hospital and highly qualified surgeons who specialise in cosmetic and reconstructive procedures. If you are based in the North West, Cheshire, or elsewhere in the UK, Manchester offers convenient access to a luxury private hospital equipped with state-of-the-art surgical technology.
Manchester is one of the UK’s leading cities for cosmetic and plastic surgery. Our hospital provides convenient access for patients living in Manchester, Cheshire, the North West, and beyond. Thinking about bat ear correction or otoplasty Manchester then book your consultation at Deansgate Hospital.
What are the options for otoplasty
Pinnaplasty surgery
Although “prominent ears” is the most widespread concern treated by pinnaplasty, there are several other issues that this type of surgery can address. The reasons why people choose to have otoplasty are many and may include:
Overly large ears (macrotia): Some individuals feel self-conscious if their ears appear too large in comparison to their facial proportions.
Asymmetrical ears: Uneven or mismatched ears can draw attention. Minor adjustments on one or both sides may help create a more balanced look.
Missing or damaged ear folds: The outer rim or fold of the ear, called the helical rim, can sometimes be underdeveloped or damaged by trauma, which leads to an unusual shape.
Congenital deformities: Issues like “cup ear,” “lop ear,” or “Stahl’s ear” involve cartilage abnormalities. Pinnaplasty may rectify or improve these congenital issues.
Torn or stretched earlobes: Although not strictly related to ear pinning, torn or overly stretched earlobes may also be corrected surgically, sometimes during the same procedure as pinnaplasty.
Reducing prominence: Bringing the ears closer to the head so that they no longer protrude. This is the main purpose of the pinnaplasty surgery.
Improving symmetry: Adjusting the size, shape, or angle of one ear to match the other. It is normal to have some degree of asymmetry and these will always remain postop.
Correcting deformities: Addressing specific ear deformities or irregularities. Some ear deformities may require complex reconstruction.
Ear Reconstruction: Some congenital deformities such as microtia or absence of the ear may require complex reconstruction surgery which may require a number of stages.
Boosting self-esteem: Improving overall confidence and comfort in social environments.
To find out more information about pinnaplasty in Manchester you should book a consultation with our plastic surgeons, please contact us via our contact form.
Am I suitable for Pinnaplasty?
Ideal Candidate for Otoplasty
There are numerous reasons why patients may consider having otoplasty. The ideal candidate or suitability for the otoplasty procedure may include:
Age: The procedure can be performed on children, typically after the ears have reached their full size (often around five or six years old). It is also performed frequently on teenagers and adults of all ages. If ear prominence is a source of distress for a child, it may be reasonable to consider early intervention to prevent the emotional impact of teasing. However, many adults also opt for pinnaplasty when they are older. We only treat patients over 18 years of age.
Prominence: Suitable candidates usually have a significant protrusion of the ears. Patients with very mild protuding ears within normal limits would not be suitable for this procedure.
General health: Suitable candidates are usually in good overall health and do not have any underlying conditions that could complicate surgery or recovery.
Realistic expectations: It is vital to have a realistic understanding of what pinnaplasty can achieve. While it can significantly improve appearance and self-confidence, it will not instantly transform one’s life situation.
Motivation: Ideally, the decision to undergo pinnaplasty should be the patient’s own, rather than due to external pressures from family or friends.
Otoplasty
Local vs General Anaesthetic
One of the key decisions for pinnaplasty is whether the procedure will be carried out under local anaesthetic or general anaesthetic:
Local Anaesthetic:The area around your ear is numbed so you do not feel pain. You will be awake during the operation. This is the most common method used.
General Anaesthetic: Rarely, general anaesthesia is used, particularly for young children or personal preference. You will be fully asleep and monitored by an anaesthetist throughout. It typically involves a slightly longer and more monitored recovery period.
Your surgeon will discuss these options with you to ensure the safest and most comfortable experience.
Otoplasty Cost
Prices from
£4500
Otoplasty Journey
Pinnaplasty Step by Step
Start your prominent ear correction surgery journey by booking your consultation with our team at Deansgate Hospital. Our team will guide you through the process from initial appointment to discharge. We have summarised the step by step journey of the otoplasty operation below.
Discuss Your Goals You will explain your aesthetic concerns and desired outcomes.
Physical Examination Assess the degree of prominence. Examination of the antihelical fold, conchal bowl and asymmetries.
Review Your Medical History Any current medications, allergies, and past surgical experiences.
Discuss Treatment Options Our surgeon will recommend an operative plan. They will discuss local and general anaesthetic options.
Explain Risks and Benefits You will gain an understanding of the potential risks and expected outcomes.
Preop Checks: Routine checks and medical review before surgery.
Smoking Cessation: If you smoke or vape, plan to stop at least six weeks before surgery to minimise complications.
Avoid Certain Medications: We may advise you to avoid specific medications and supplements that could increase bleeding. Make sure you inform us of any medications or supplements that you are currently taking.
Admission: You will be admitted to the ward by our nursing team who will perform some checks.
Anaesthetic Review: Anaesthetist will review you and discuss the anaesthesia if you are having general.
Photography: You will have your preop photos taken.
Marking: The surgeon will draw their operative plan and mark you in preparation for the surgery.
Consent: The surgeon will discuss the otoplasty procedure and risks again and complete the documentation.
After surgery: You will be closely monitored in a recovery area to ensure you wake up safely from general anaesthesia. If you have local anaesthetic you will be taken to your room. You will usually have a type of head bandage or head band.
Pain: Levels vary, but you will receive medications to manage discomfort. You should expect to stay in the hospital for a short period following surgery depending on your recovery if having general. You will be discharged earlier if you have local.
Plan for Recovery Organise child care, work leave, and household help for at least a few days after surgery. Some people will go back to work the next day.
Arrange Transportation Arrange for a reliable friend or family member to accompany you..
Post-Surgery Essentials Use some extra pillows to elevate your head while sleeping for the first 3-4 nights.
Activity: Light walking is encouraged early on to reduce the risk of blood clots or thrombosis. You can resume exercise at six weeks.
Wound Care: You will have your dressings removed at 1 week.
Follow-Up Appointments: We will schedule follow-up visits within the first week to check on your healing, remove the dressings, and assess incision sites.
Head Band: We recommend wearing the head band as instructed. You will have a dressing or band for the first week then have this changed. After the first week we recommend a head band at night when in bed for 6 weeks.
Otoplasty
Frequently Asked Questions
Does pinnaplasty hurt?
Most patients experience mild to moderate discomfort rather than severe pain. You may feel tenderness or tightness around the ears in the first few days. Pain relief can be managed through prescribed medications.
Will I have noticeable scars?
The incision is made behind the ear, concealing the scar within the natural folds of skin. Over time, scars typically fade and become much less visible.
How soon will I see results?
You will see an immediate improvement in ear positioning once bandages are removed. However, swelling can stay for several weeks, and final results may only become apparent a few months post-surgery. The ears are usually overcorrected initially and so they will come forward slightly with time.
Is pinnaplasty permanent?
Yes, the structural changes to your ear cartilage are generally permanent. In some cases, slight relapse or recurrence can occur if the cartilage is especially resilient or if sutures become loose.
When can I resume exercise or sports?
Light activities can usually be resumed within two weeks, but contact sports or strenuous activities should be avoided for at least 6 weeks.
Can children have otoplasty or pinnaplasty?
Yes, provided the child’s ears are fully grown, which is often around the age of five or six. Many parents choose this option to prevent potential teasing or bullying at school. We can only offer procedures in patients over 18 years of age.
Can I wear glasses after pinnaplasty?
Immediately after surgery, wearing glasses may feel uncomfortable if there is post-operative bandaging. Once the dressings are removed, you can typically wear glasses again, though a gentle approach is advised.
What is the difference between pinnaplasty, otoplasty, and ear pinning?
These terms are generally used interchangeably to describe surgery that alters the appearance of the ears, most commonly to pin them closer to the head.
Pinnaplasty
Otoplasty Manchester
There are a number of pinnaplasty techniques that may be used depending on the individual anatomy and desired result:
Cartilage Scoring: The surgeon makes incisions in the cartilage to reshape it. This technique is effective but can create some potential for visible or palpable irregularities if not performed meticulously.
Cartilage Sparing or Suture Technique: Instead of cutting into the cartilage, this method relies on placing permanent sutures to bend the cartilage into a more desirable shape. The advantage is that no cartilage needs to be removed, potentially reducing the risk of irregularities. This is the most commonly performed technique now.
Alternative techniques such as the Earfold, which used a clip to correct the ear, are no longer available. During your consultation in Manchester, the surgeon will recommend the most appropriate approach to deliver natural results.
Pinnaplasty, or ear pinning, is a well-established procedure that can dramatically improve the appearance of prominent or uneven ears. For individuals in Manchester, Deansgate Hospital offers reputable plastic surgeons and facilities that offer ear correction. Book your consultation with our team of surgeons who will guide you on your pinnaplasty journey.
Whether you have felt self-conscious for years or suffered from the psychological impact of teasing, pinnaplasty can provide lasting benefits to both appearance and self-esteem. The procedure is relatively straightforward, with quick recovery using local anaesthetic and most people returning to work the next day.
