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Otoplasty Sydney

Otoplasty, also referred to as ear correction or ear pinning, is a surgical procedure that involves repositioning the ears closer to the side of the head. It may also include changes to the shape or size of the ears, depending on the individual’s anatomy.

Ear Pinning Sydney

Otoplasty, also referred to as ear correction or ear pinning, is a surgical procedure that involves repositioning the ears closer to the side of the head. It may also include changes to the shape or size of the ears, depending on the individual’s anatomy and surgical plan.

Non Surgical Otoplasty
Non-surgical otoplasty offers an alternative to traditional surgical ear pinning methods. This procedure can be performed in a clinic setting, eliminating the need for hospitalisation or general anesthesia.

What concerns may otoplasty (ear pinning) address?

  • Change ear position: The procedure may reduce the degree to which the ears project from the side of the head.
  • Adjust symmetry: In some cases, surgery may be performed to make the position or shape of the ears more similar to each other.
  • Modify ear shape: Otoplasty can involve changes to the contours or folds of the ear structure.
  • Change ear size: The procedure may reduce the size of the ears, depending on the surgical plan.
  • Revise previous surgery: In certain cases, otoplasty can be performed to alter the results of earlier ear surgery.
  • Address congenital variations: Some ear shapes present from birth, such as cryptotia (where the upper rim of the ear is partly hidden), may be surgically addressed.
  • Surgery after injury: In some instances, otoplasty may be considered following trauma to the ear.

It’s important to remember that every individual is unique and so too are their needs and desired outcomes for cosmetic surgery. If you’re considering a procedure, it’s essential to have a comprehensive consultation with one of our experienced surgeons. They can help you understand whether you’re a suitable candidate and what you can realistically expect from the surgery. The information provided here is meant to help guide you, but it’s not a replacement for professional medical advice. Always organise a consultation for personalised advice.

If you are concerned about the way you look or are thinking about cosmetic surgery for confidence reasons, there are alternatives. Talking to a counsellor or psychologist may help you overcome your concerns about your appearance.

What to Expect

Consultation

The otoplasty process begins with a pre-operative consultation with the surgeon. During this appointment, your medical history and current ear structure will be assessed, including size, shape, position, and symmetry. This meeting also provides an opportunity to discuss your reasons for considering the procedure, ask questions, and receive information about what it involves, including possible risks and recovery.

Number and type of consultation
It is a requirement under the law, that a patient seeking cosmetic surgery must have at least two pre-operative consultations. The patient’s first consultation must be with the medical practitioner who will perform the surgery or another registered health practitioner who works with the medical practitioner who will perform the surgery (not a patient advisor or an agent). At least one of the two consultations must be in person with the medical practitioner who will perform the surgery. Other consultations can be in person or by video.

When consent can be given
A patient must not be requested to sign consent forms at their first consultation and cannot consent to cosmetic surgery until they have had an in-person consultation with the medical practitioner who will perform the surgery. The decision to have the surgery (provision of informed consent) must be made at a consultation with the medical practitioner who will perform the procedure (in person or by video).

Cooling-off Period
There must be a cooling-off period of at least seven days after the patient has had two consultations and given informed consent (signed consent forms), before the surgery can be booked or a deposit paid.

Preparation

Once a surgical plan has been confirmed, you will be provided with pre-operative instructions to help you prepare for your otoplasty. These may include dietary recommendations, guidance on smoking and alcohol use, directions regarding prescribed medications or supplements, and advice on hair care before the procedure.

Surgery

Otoplasty, also known as ear pinning surgery, generally takes between one and two hours and may be performed under local anaesthesia with sedation or under general anaesthesia. The procedure typically involves making incisions behind the ears. Through these incisions, the surgeon reshapes the cartilage to change the position or angle of the ears. The incisions are then closed with sutures. The location of the incisions is intended to make them less noticeable once healed, although the visibility of scars can vary between individuals.
  • Surgery Time
    1.5 to 2 hours
  • Hospital Time
    Day stay with an option for overnight

Recovery

After the procedure, you will be monitored in a recovery area for a short period. In most cases, people can go home the same day, although an overnight hospital stay may be recommended in some situations. Swelling, bruising, and discomfort around the ears are common after surgery and usually reduce over time.

Many people are able to resume non-strenuous daily activities within several days. More vigorous activities are generally avoided for at least a week or as advised by the surgeon. Follow-up appointments will be arranged to review healing progress and address any concerns.

Changes in ear appearance may be visible within a few weeks, once swelling subsides. However, healing continues for several months, and the final appearance can vary between individuals due to factors such as cartilage shape, skin characteristics, healing response, and whether other procedures were performed at the same time.
  • Time off work
    1 week
  • Exercise
    4 to 6 weeks
  • Cast Removal
    Headband to be worn for 1 week full-time and for a month while sleeping
  • Showering
    Can shower same day, however ears must stay dry
  • Driving
    24 hours after general anaesthetic and not while taking prescribed pain relief. We also recommend checking with your CTA insurer as to the post surgery exclusion period.
  • Travel
    After 7 days for national and 2 weeks for international
  • Full Recovery
    4 to 6 months for final results

Send an Enquiry

Want to ask a question or organisation a consultation?

Dr Michael Zacharia

MBBS, FRACS, FAAFPS, ACCS
Dr Michael Zacharia is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons, Head and Neck (Otolaryngology) and practices in Facial Plastic Surgery. He is also an Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) physician and has completed over 8,000 procedures, with over 4,000 being Rhinoplasty. Combining the latest medical, surgical and health techniques, Dr Zacharia strives to deliver the best outcome for each and every one of his patients.
Cosmetic Surgeon & ENT Specialist
MED0001178357

Dr Kenneth Brito

MD, MSurg, FACCSM, FRACGP
Dr. Kenneth Brito is a cosmetic doctor with more than 13 years of postgraduate experience. Since earning his Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery in 2007 and his Masters of Surgery from the University of Sydney in 2012, he has continued to build his expertise through advanced training. Dr. Brito values clear communication and works closely with patients to plan treatments that prioritise safety and individual needs.
Cosmetic Doctor
MED0001680302

Contact us

Make an Enquiry

Get in touch today to organise a consultation or to find out more information.

Our team will give you a call to discuss your enquiry and we will then send you any relevant information via email.
You will need a GP referral for surgical procedures. AHPRA require all patients having a surgical cosmetic or medical procedure to have a GP referral. You can fax your referral to 02 8072 6824 or email office@drzacharia.com.au
You will need a GP referral for surgical procedures. AHPRA require all patients having a surgical cosmetic or medical procedure to have a GP referral. You can fax your referral to 02 8072 6824 or email office@drzacharia.com.au

Considerations Before Cosmetic Surgery

While we aim to provide accurate information about the different surgical procedures available, it’s important to understand that the content provided here serves as a general guide only. The specifics of each surgery, including the procedure detailed above, can and will vary significantly from person to person, depending on their unique circumstances and physical characteristics.

Undergoing cosmetic surgery is a serious decision that requires ample thought, careful consideration, and meticulous planning. It should never be taken lightly or treated trivially, as it can have profound impacts on one’s lifestyle and wellbeing.

Recovery from cosmetic surgery, too, requires time, support, and proper aftercare. We strive to present realistic and transparent information about the recovery process, but individual experiences may vary. It is typical for recovery to involve certain services or requirements, such as the use of compression garments or receiving therapeutic massages. It also often necessitates significant lifestyle changes, which may include a period of absence from employment and temporary restrictions on certain activities.

In light of these considerations, we strongly encourage potential patients to engage in comprehensive discussions with their GP and our surgeons. The goal is to fully understand the implications, requirements, and likely outcomes of any chosen procedure, and to make informed decisions about their health and aesthetics.

For more information on preparing for cosmetic surgery visit health.gov.au/cosmeticsurgery

General risks and complications

  • Substantial Hemorrhage: This involves severe blood loss from the area that underwent surgery, which may necessitate additional medical interventions.
  • Susceptibility to Infection: Post-surgery, the risk of infection can rise, potentially requiring either antibiotic treatment or subsequent surgical interventions.
  • Allergic Responses: Patients may exhibit allergic reactions to medical materials such as sutures, dressings, or antiseptic solutions used during and after the procedure.
  • Hematoma Formation: This involves the development of a sizable clot of blood beneath the incision site, which may necessitate medical drainage.
  • Post-Surgical Discomfort: Patients may experience pain, bruising, and swelling in the area surrounding the surgical site.
  • Scar Development: There's a risk of developing keloids or hypertrophic scars, which are elevated, red, and thickened scars over the healed incisions. Though they can be bothersome and aesthetically displeasing, they don't pose a direct health threat.
  • Delayed Healing Process: Healing can be sluggish, especially in patients with pre-existing conditions like diabetes or those who smoke.
  • Anaesthesia Risks: Patients may experience short-term nausea following general anaesthesia, along with other potential risks associated with anaesthesia.

Otoplasty risks and complications

  • Post-Surgical Pain: Following ear pinning surgery, also known as otoplasty, patients may experience significant discomfort or pain that requires effective pain management.
  • Risk of Infection: As with any surgical intervention, there's a potential for developing a postoperative infection, which may require further treatments.
  • Scarring: Despite efforts to minimize visibility, scarring is an inherent risk in any surgical procedure, including otoplasty. Some patients may develop noticeable scars.
  • Altered Sensation: Patients might experience changes in ear sensation, including temporary or permanent numbness or tingling.
  • Asymmetry: Despite a surgeon's best efforts, there's a risk that the surgery may result in an asymmetrical appearance of the ears.
  • Dissatisfactory Cosmetic Outcome: The aesthetic results of the surgery may not meet the patient's expectations, requiring further revision surgery.
  • Recurrence of Protrusion: In some cases, the ears may gradually return to their pre-surgical position over time, potentially requiring further surgery.

AHPRA Registration

  • Dr Michael Zacharia MED0001178357 - Otolaryngology
  • Dr Kenneth Brito MED0001680302 - General Practice
  • Dr Ahmed Alsultan MED0001647273 - General Practice
Disclaimer: Surgical and invasive procedures are not an exact science and they carry risks. Results vary with each patient depending on their age, health, weight, hormones and lifestyle. Please note that results are not permanent solutions and will change as your body changes over the years. After you consult with Team MZ, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner
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