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Ear Pinning
(Otoplasty)
Ear Pinning (Otoplasty)
Ears that look overly prominent or too large compared to other facial features feel embarrassing. This can be even the case in children, who may be subjected to more aggressive teasing from their peers. Ear pinning surgery, or otoplasty, can improve the shape and profile of the ears to make them less conspicuous and more flattering, helping to improve self-confidence in children and adults alike.
Recognized as some of the top cosmetic surgeons in the Mobile-Pensacola metro area, Dr. James Koehler and Dr. Vincent Gardner at Eastern Shore Cosmetic Surgery offer a wide range of facial plastic surgery procedures for both men and women. We are known for our caring commitment to a patient-first approach while achieving absolutely excellent results.
Are You a Candidate?
If you have unusually prominent ears, ears that protrude excessively or are asymmetrical, you may be a candidate for otoplasty. Ear pinning surgery can be performed in adults or in children as young as 5 or 6. In additional to physical maturity of the ears, children must have the emotional maturity to leave bandages in place and understand the importance of proper post-operative care. The best candidates for ear pinning should be in good general physical and mental health, and have realistic expectations about their results.
Before and After Photos
About Ear Pinning
Cosmetic ear surgery can help improve not only the physical appearance and placement of the ears, but can also improve the quality of life for children or adults who feel embarrassed about their ear shape or profile. A relatively simple surgery, ear pinning makes a subtle yet distinct change in your appearance that can help bring all the facial features into a more aesthetic alignment.
Otoplasty can also be performed to correct congenital defects in ear structure, or repair abnormalities due to previous trauma or injury. The primary goal of ear pinning surgery is to create or restore a natural shape to the ear brings the ears into better balance with the rest of the head and face. Even very minor corrections can have a tremendous positive impact on physical appearance as well as self-image.
We are excited to offer Pro-Nox pain relief that can be added to any of the in-office procedures we perform. Pro-Nox is an inhaled analgesic that gives our patients 100% control through self-administration. Get short-term pain, anxiety, and stress relief without having to “go under.”
What to Expect
Cosmetic ear surgery begins with a consultation at Eastern Shore Cosmetic Surgery to discuss your goals, or the goals you hope to see after your child’s surgery. Dr. Koehler or Dr. Gardner will perform a physical evaluation to determine candidacy for the procedure, and discuss the possible options and decisions that you may need to make ahead of time.
Ear pinning can be performed under general anesthesia or using a local anesthetic plus sedation, depending on the age of the patient and your personal preferences. The surgery itself typically requires one or more incisions made within the natural creases of the ears. There are a number of different ways a cosmetic surgeon can improve the ears, depending on the reasons for choosing surgery in the first place. Tissue and cartilage can be reshaped, often pulling the ear closer to the head and using sutures to secure the new position during healing. Excess skin and cartilage may be removed during surgery as well. Finally, incisions are closed using sutures, and post-surgical dressings are applied.
Our surgeons take care to ensure that the level of correction is just enough to create a very natural look after healing. The surgery is usually relatively quick, lasting just an hour or two depending on the complexity of the procedure.
After surgery, your surgeon will have you wear a dressing for a day or two after surgery, and then recommend a special headband be worn for the next several weeks: full-time at first, and later just overnight. The headband helps protect the healing ears as well as offer additional comfort during recovery. You should avoid contact sports and vigorous physical activity for a month after surgery, but normal daily routines can resume within 1-2 weeks.
Dr. Koehler
Educated at the University of Alabama and in practice for over 20 years, Dr. Koehler is a board-certified cosmetic surgeon who is devoted to providing exceptional results.
Dr. Gardner
A triple-board-certified surgeon specializing in both cosmetic and venous procedures, Dr. Gardner brings a depth of expertise, compassion, and innovation to our practice.
Risks and Complications
The risks associated with ear pinning surgery are minor, and include the possibility of asymmetrical results, infection or poor wound healing. More serious risks are possible, and may include complications related to anesthesia, irregular contours or the need for revision surgery, but these are rare. Your surgeon will discuss all the risks and benefits with you before your or your child’s otoplasty so you’re informed about what you can expect.
Ear Surgery FAQs
How much does ear pinning surgery cost in the Mobile-Pensacola area?
The cost of otoplasty at Eastern Shore Cosmetic Surgery depends on your individual treatment plan, including the extent of correction needed and the surgical setting. For this reason, we are able to provide you with a personalized cost estimate at the time of your consultation. Financing options are available through our Cosmetic Surgery Financing program to help make the procedure more affordable.
Is ear pinning covered by insurance?
Otoplasty is typically considered a cosmetic procedure and is not covered by most insurance plans. However, when surgery is performed to correct a congenital ear deformity or repair damage caused by trauma or injury, some insurance plans may offer partial coverage. We recommend contacting your insurance provider directly to discuss your specific benefits.
Who is a good candidate for ear pinning surgery?
Ear pinning can be a good option for children and adults who have ears that are overly prominent, protrude excessively from the head, or are asymmetrical. Children are often excellent candidates, ideally before school-age teasing begins. Adults who have always felt self-conscious about their ears are equally good candidates, provided they are in good overall health.
Can ear pinning correct only one ear?
Yes. While otoplasty is often performed on both ears, surgery can be performed on a single ear when only one side is affected or when asymmetry between the two ears is the primary concern. Your surgeon will evaluate both ears during your consultation and recommend the approach that will achieve the most balanced, natural-looking result.
Is ear pinning painful?
Discomfort during surgery is managed with anesthesia, so patients do not feel pain during the procedure. Some soreness and tenderness in the days following surgery is normal and typically manageable with over-the-counter pain medication.
Will ear pinning leave visible scars?
Incisions in otoplasty are placed discreetly behind the ear, where they are naturally hidden. Scarring is typically minimal and not visible in everyday settings. Most patients are very pleased with how their incisions heal over time.
Will ear pinning affect my hearing?
No. Otoplasty is a cosmetic procedure that addresses the external structure of the ear only. It does not involve the ear canal or any internal structures related to hearing, and will have no effect on your hearing ability.
Can ear pinning be combined with other procedures?
Yes. Otoplasty is sometimes performed alongside other facial procedures for more comprehensive results. For adults, it pairs well with procedures like a facelift as part of a complete facial rejuvenation. Your surgeon will discuss combination options during your consultation.
When will I see the results of ear pinning?
Results are visible immediately once bandages are removed. Ears will appear closer to the head, more proportionate and better balanced with the rest of the facial features. Final results continue to refine as any residual swelling resolves over the following weeks.
Are the results of ear pinning permanent?
Yes. Once the ear cartilage has been reshaped and repositioned, the results are long-lasting. The ears will not revert to their previous position. As with any surgery, normal aging continues over time, but the correction achieved with otoplasty is considered permanent.
Your New Look
Ear pinning delivers immediate results that can be seen once bandages are removed. Ears should look smaller, sit closer to the head and appear more proportionate compared to the rest of your facial structure. Most importantly, you can give you or your child the gift of improved self-image and a freedom from teasing and bullying due to the appearance of unusually prominent ears.
Written By: Dr. James Koehler
A board-certified cosmetic surgeon in Fairhope, AL, Dr. James Koehler earned his MD from the University of Alabama and completed several post-doctoral residencies, internships and fellowships. He returned to Alabama to be closer to family and serve patients in the local community with a full range of cosmetic surgery procedures for the face, breast and body.
More about Dr. James Koehler | Last Reviewed: July 6th, 2026
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