One of the most common cosmetic ear complaints is extensive protrusion. When the ears turn outward and stick out from the head, it can be a distracting feature. It only takes a small amount of extra cartilage or increased angle to make the ears appear too large or unbalanced with the rest of the facial features. Dr. Stefan Shuaib at Dallas Facial Plastic Surgery Center offers otoplasty, ear pinning surgery, at our clinic in Irving, TX.

Protruding ears are often a genetic trait. Like a bigger nose or smaller chin, ears that stick out may be a feature that runs in families. There is nothing wrong with large ears, but they can be a cosmetic concern. Kids with protruding ears may be teased due to their appearance, which can affect their self-esteem. Ear pinning plastic surgery, or otoplasty, is a solution to correct protruding ears for a more balanced appearance.

Correcting Protruding Ears

Otoplasty is performed in a few different ways, depending on the extent of ear protrusion. For some patients, the upper ear can be simply “pinned” using sutures, pulling the ear closer to the head. This is less invasive and can be very effective to create the desired result.

For extensive ear protrusion, otoplasty to remove some of the cartilage behind the ear may be required. Removing a small wedge of cartilage can allow the ear to be brought closer to the scalp before the incision is closed. Some patients may need folding of the cartilage or reshaping of the ear to create the desired appearance.

Otoplasty can be performed on kids, teens and adults. Children can undergo ear pinning once their ears are fully formed, usually after age 5 or 6. This is an ideal time to correct the ear protrusion before children begin school and start their formative years. Children’s cartilage is also more pliable, which can make it easier to reshape the ears.

Dr. Stefan Shuaib is a highly respected facial plastic surgeon with dual board certifications in Facial Plastic Surgery and in Head and Neck Surgery. If you or your child have prominent ears, Dr. Shuaib is an excellent choice for correcting this cosmetic condition. To learn more about otoplasty, or ear pinning plastic surgery, contact us at Dallas Facial Plastic Surgery Center. We can schedule an otoplasty consultation with Dr. Shuaib at our Irving, TX, location.