Otoplasty (Ear Pinning) Introduction
Prominent or asymmetrical ears can draw unwanted attention and impact self-esteem at any age. Whether due to genetics or previous injury, ears that stick out or appear misshapen often lead to feelings of self-consciousness, especially in social settings. At Maryland Plastic Surgery, board-certified surgeons Dr. Adam Summers and Dr. Christopher Spittler perform otoplasty procedures to reshape and reposition the ears, helping patients achieve a more balanced, natural appearance. This simple yet transformative procedure can be life-changing, offering long-term results with minimal downtime.
Otoplasty, commonly known as ear pinning, is a cosmetic procedure that corrects the size, shape, or position of the ears. The surgery is most often performed to reduce the projection of overly prominent ears by repositioning them closer to the head, but it can also address asymmetry, deformities, or irregular ear contours.
During the procedure, incisions are typically made behind the ear where they are well hidden. The cartilage is then reshaped, removed, or sutured to create a more natural contour. Otoplasty can be performed on adults and children as young as five or six, once the ears have reached full development.
Various types of Otoplasty depend on the patient’s individual needs and medical history. At Maryland Plastic Surgery, your dedicated surgeon will help you choose the best option for you.
This technique involves making incisions behind the ear to access and reshape the cartilage. Sutures are used to fold the ear into a more natural position closer to the head. This is the most common method for reducing protrusion.
In cases where the ears are overly large (a condition called macrotia), a reduction technique may be used to remove excess cartilage and skin. This method focuses more on ear size than position.
Patients who have previously undergone ear surgery but are dissatisfied with their results may be candidates for revision otoplasty. This requires advanced technique to correct prior outcomes and restore natural proportions.
At Maryland Plastic Surgery & PURE MedSpa, Dr. Adam Summers and Dr. Christopher Spittler bring decades of experience and artistry to every cosmetic surgery they perform. Known for their precision and natural-looking results, both surgeons take a personalized approach—starting with an in-depth consultation to understand your goals and areas of concern. Whether you’re looking to lift sagging jowls, smooth deep lines, or restore youthful contours, Dr. Summers and Dr. Spittler are committed to helping you look like the best version of yourself. Their reputation for excellence and their dedication to patient satisfaction means you’ll be in the best hands—every step of the way.
Otoplasty is a relatively straightforward procedure that delivers immediate and lasting improvements in ear shape and facial symmetry.
Benefits of ear pinning include:
Improved facial balance and proportions
Correction of protruding, oversized, or asymmetrical ears
Minimal visible scarring with incisions hidden behind the ears
Boost in self-confidence, especially in social or professional settings
A permanent solution with long-lasting results
Can be safely performed on children and adults
Otoplasty is ideal for individuals who are unhappy with the appearance of their ears due to prominence, asymmetry, or irregular shape. Candidates must be in good overall health and have realistic expectations for the outcome.
You may be a good candidate for otoplasty if you:
Have ears that protrude significantly from the sides of your head
Are bothered by the size, shape, or symmetry of your ears
Are over five years old (for pediatric patients) with fully developed ears
Are in good general health with no active ear infections or untreated medical conditions
Do not smoke, or are willing to stop smoking before surgery
Desire a permanent, natural-looking improvement in ear appearance
During your consultation, Dr. Summers or Dr. Spittler will assess your anatomy and goals to determine if otoplasty is right for you or your child.
LET’S GET YOU STARTED
On the day of your surgery at Maryland Plastic Surgery & PURE MedSpa, you’ll be welcomed into our state-of-the-art surgical suite by Dr. Summers, Dr. Spittler, and our experienced clinical team. Before your procedure begins, we’ll review your surgical plan with you once more — giving you a final opportunity to ask questions or share any last-minute thoughts. Our goal is to ensure you feel completely comfortable, confident, and cared for every step of the way.
A board-certified anesthesiologist will then administer the appropriate anesthesia, which will have been carefully selected and discussed during your consultation to ensure a pain-free, relaxed experience throughout your procedure.
Once your ideal results have been achieved, your surgeon will carefully close the incisions using advanced suturing techniques designed to support healing and minimize visible scarring. In some cases, a small drain may be placed to prevent fluid buildup and support a smoother recovery process.
Otoplasty is typically performed as an outpatient procedure in our state-of-the-art surgical suite. The surgery usually takes between one to two hours and is performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the patient’s age and comfort level.
After anesthesia is administered, small incisions are made behind the ears to access the underlying cartilage. The cartilage is then reshaped and repositioned using permanent sutures to achieve the desired contour. In some cases, excess skin or cartilage may be removed. Once reshaped, the incisions are closed with sutures, and a soft dressing or protective bandage is applied to support healing and maintain the new ear position.
Patients are monitored in recovery for a short time before being discharged to rest at home.
Recovery from otoplasty is generally straightforward. Some swelling, mild discomfort, or bruising around the ears is normal during the first few days and can be managed with prescribed or over-the-counter medication.
Patients are typically advised to:
Wear a headband or compression wrap to protect the ears during the initial healing phase
Sleep with the head elevated and avoid resting directly on the ears
Avoid strenuous activities, especially contact sports, for at least three weeks
Keep the incisions clean and dry to prevent infection
Follow up with the surgeon to monitor healing and remove any sutures, if necessary
Most patients return to school, work, or light activities within five to seven days. Final results are visible once swelling fully subsides, usually within a few weeks.
FAIR & TRANSPARENT PRICING
The cost of otoplasty at Maryland Plastic Surgery varies based on the complexity of the procedure, whether one or both ears are being treated, and whether it is a primary or revision surgery. On average, pricing ranges from $5,000 to $7,500.
During your private consultation, Dr. Summers will perform a detailed evaluation, listen carefully to your goals, and design a customized treatment plan that best addresses your needs. Once your surgical plan is finalized, our Patient Coordinator will provide you with a personalized cost breakdown and discuss available financing options.
For your convenience, we proudly partner with trusted financing providers such as PatientFi, Alphaeon Credit, and CareCredit, making it easier to move forward with your procedure on terms that fit your budget. Whether you choose to pay upfront or through a flexible monthly plan, our team is here to help you every step of the way.
For general pricing estimates on our full range of services, we invite you to visit our Pricing Page.
Otoplasty can be safely performed on children as young as five or six, once the ears are fully developed. Performing the surgery at a young age can prevent teasing and boost self-esteem during formative years. However, adults can also undergo the procedure at any age if they are healthy and have realistic expectations.
Yes. The goal of otoplasty is to create a natural ear shape that harmonizes with your facial features. Dr. Summers and Dr. Spittler use precise techniques to ensure the ears are not over-pinned or made to look unnatural. Most patients report looking like a better version of themselves rather than noticing a drastic change.
The results of otoplasty are considered permanent. The cartilage is reshaped and sutured into a new position that holds its structure over time. While the ears will continue to age naturally, the improved contour and reduced protrusion remain consistent.
Incisions are typically made behind the ear, within the natural crease, making scars very discreet. As healing progresses, these scars fade significantly and are usually undetectable in day-to-day life. Scar care and proper post-operative management further minimize their visibility.
Most patients experience only mild discomfort following surgery. A sense of pressure or tightness around the ears is common in the first few days. Pain is usually well managed with over-the-counter or prescribed medications, and most patients are comfortable returning to regular activities within a week.
Yes. Otoplasty is most often performed on both ears during the same procedure to ensure balance and symmetry. In some cases, only one ear may need correction, and the surgeon will carefully evaluate to ensure the final result is harmonious.
A slight degree of asymmetry between the ears is natural and expected in most individuals. However, if noticeable asymmetry remains after surgery, a minor revision may be performed to fine-tune the result. Dr. Summers and Dr. Spittler take great care to achieve the best symmetry possible during the initial procedure.
Traditional otoplasty focuses on the upper and middle ear structure. If you are concerned with stretched or damaged earlobes due to gauges, earrings, or trauma, a separate earlobe repair procedure may be recommended. This can often be performed at the same time.
Patients are usually advised to wear a soft protective headband or wrap continuously for the first few days, then at night for an additional one to two weeks. This helps protect the ears during sleep and supports the healing tissues in maintaining their new position.
You may need to avoid wearing glasses for the first few days to prevent pressure on the healing incisions. Once swelling subsides and comfort improves, glasses can be worn again. If needed, you can use glasses with a strap or support over the head to avoid putting pressure directly on the ears.
Financing is available to ensure your dream results fit comfortably within your budget.
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