Ears and expertise: An insight into pinnaplasty

Written in association with: Mr Simon Eccles
Published:
Edited by: Kate Forristal

In his latest online article, Mr Simon Eccles give us his insights into pinnaplasty, also known as otoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to correct prominent ears. Ear shape can vary significantly, and it is not uncommon for individuals to have ears that differ from each other. While ear cartilage becomes firmer with age, 90% of ear growth is typically completed by the age of 8. Pinnaplasty is a versatile procedure that can be performed at any age, from childhood to adulthood. Common concerns that lead people to consider pinnaplasty include asymmetrical ears and ears that protrude excessively from the sides of the head. These issues often result from a lack of proper ear cartilage folding, known as the anti-helical fold, and an overpronounced "concha" or bowl part of the ear. In some cases, both factors contribute to ear prominence.

Surgical techniques:

Over time, various surgical techniques have been developed to reshape ear cartilage. Some techniques involve cutting into or removing portions of the cartilage, which can yield successful results but carry a higher risk of complications. Mr Eccles prefers techniques that utilise sutures (stitches) placed within the cartilage to remodel and reposition it. This approach is less traumatic for the ear, reduces the risk of surgical complications, and provides a more natural appearance. The surgical incision is typically made behind the ear, concealing any resulting scar within the natural crease between the back of the ear and the scalp. While the surgery can be performed under general or local anaesthesia, it is generally recommended for younger children to undergo general anaesthesia.

 

Hospital stay:

In most cases, patients can return home on the same day following pinnaplasty surgery, regardless of whether it was performed under general or local anaesthesia.

 

Recovery duration:

Post-surgery discomfort is typically minimal and not painful. Some patients may experience bruising and swelling of the ears, which usually subside within four weeks. To safeguard against accidental tugging on the ear, a sports headband is advised to be worn consistently for the initial weeks and then only at night. For safety reasons, it is advisable to abstain from contact sports for several weeks.

 

Long-term results:

Pinnaplasty results are generally long-lasting, particularly when issues do not reoccur within the first six months following the procedure.

 

Mr Simon Eccles is a distinguished consultant craniofacial plastic surgeon with over 30 years of experience. You can schedule an appointment with Mr Eccles on his Top Doctors profile.

By Mr Simon Eccles
Plastic surgery

Mr Simon Eccles is an esteemed consultant craniofacial plastic surgeon practising in London. Having first qualified as a dentist and then as a maxillo-facial surgeon in 1985, he then trained and qualified as a doctor before beginning training in plastic surgery, specialising in head and neck and cranio-facial surgery. He was awarded the McGregor medal for outstanding performance in the Royal College of Surgeons plastic surgery examination. 

Mr Simon Eccles works as a consultant plastic surgeon in both the NHS and in private practice across different sites in London, and is a member of a number of committees in his field. He is also a member of a group of surgeons working for the charity 'Facing the World', where they carry out life-saving and life-changing surgical work on children across the world who would not otherwise have access to this level of care. 

Mr Eccles is also dedicated to training and teaching junior plastic surgeons and has written a number of articles for peer-reviewed journals, he has also made a number of television appearances as an expert in his field, and has been an invited speaker for TED.  

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