What is an otoplasty?

Fix protruding ears: An otoplasty is done to reposition prominent ears to a more normal appearance. There are many techniques that depend on the nature of the deformity, but virtually all are done through incisions on the back of the ears. Results can be very gratifying; this is the kind of deformity in kids that often elicits a great deal of teasing.

Ear contouring: Otoplasty is also known as ear contouring and has been referred to as ear pinning. Surgical otoplasty involves creating or improving the bend (anti-helical fold) in the ear cartilage and/or setting the bowl portion of the ear back closer to the head. Similar results are now possible without surgery using the cartilaze (laser assisted cartilage reshaping) procedure.

Ear reshaping: Otoplasty is any technique that reshapes the ears. It can be used with a variety of sutures, excision cartilage, etc. It is typically performed on an outpatient basis.

AKA Ear Pinning: Prominent ears protrude due to 2 main issues. The top of the ear lacks an "antihelical fold" which is the curved cartilage paralleling the upper rim of the ear. The bottom of the ear can protrude, because the "bowl" of the ear" just before the ear canal, is overly large. Otoplasty: a crease incision behind the ear, "bending" the cartilage at the top, +/-"tacking" the bowl down & back.