The best candidate for otoplasty or ear pinning is someone who:

• Is of an age where their ear growth is complete 
• Is frustrated by protruding or overly large ears
• Has lop ear (the tip seems to fold down and forward)
• Has cupped ear (a small ear)
• Has shell ear (the curve in the outer rim and the natural folds and creases are missing)
• Has large or stretched earlobes
• Is missing ears as a result of a birth defect or injury

As with any cosmetic surgery procedure, it is important to remember that your surgery will not turn you into someone else and you should not rely on your procedure to change your life. If you are considering undergoing a procedure it is imperative you speak to someone you trust, are happy in your life and are simply seeking to enhance your appearance and confidence, rather than looking to completely change who you are. It is equally important you are psychologically ready.

It is important to discuss with your doctors and with us any:

• Medical conditions you have
• Any medication you are taking - prescription, herbal and non-prescription

Once you arrive at your destination you will have a physical evaluation with your surgeon, where you will discuss your goals and concerns and finalise the plan for surgery. At this examination your surgeon will determine the best procedure for you and explain it to you in detail, including any limitations. It is important that you head into surgery with realistic goals. It is during this examination that your surgeon may also make recommendations for other procedures.

In the lead-up to your surgery, it is important you do the following:

Stop smoking. Smoking can cause problems with circulation and increase the possibility of complications.

Length of surgery:

This type of surgery usually takes one to two hours. It is performed as outpatient surgery when done under Local Anaesthesia. Should you choose General Anaesthesia, you will be required to stay one night in hospital. 

Recovery and post-op care:

After surgery your ears will be covered in bandages for protection and support. These will be removed after a few days and a loose headband will be used to cover your ears at night for two to six weeks. This is especially important to ensure that you do not pull your ears forward when you are sleeping. It is also important you avoid sleeping on your side.

During the first few weeks after surgery, it is common to feel some discomfort and itching, which can be managed with pain medication recommended by your doctor. It is important to wear front-closing shirts and loose fitting tops to avoid pulling your ears as you dress. 

Length of stay:

It is recommended you stay on holiday for 10 nights, during which time you will have follow-up appointments with your surgeon. To get the most out of your recovery time we suggest you partake in gentle exercise, yoga classes and treat yourself to some pampering. If you are feeling up to it, there is plenty to see and do in Phuket, Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur.

Risks and complications are minimised by using the care and services of our highly-skilled, trusted doctors and nurses. However, with every precaution taken complications can still occur. These are rare and few patients experience any issues. If you have any concerns about your procedure and the possible preconditions and risks, please discuss them with your doctor and nurses.

Potential risks include:

• Scarring 
• Asymmetry
• Changes in skin sensation
• Overcorrection

Ear pinning is often performed with other facial procedures to give a more balanced look. Non-surgical procedures can also be added to give you an even more youthful appearance and change the texture of your skin so you return home even more refreshed. These can include cosmetic fillers for reducing fine lines, laser resurfacing and chemical peels.