Otoplasty (Ear Pinning)

in Washington D.C.

At The Cohen Clinic for Plastic Surgery in McLean, Virginia, we offer otoplasty, also known as ear pinning or ear reshaping surgery, to help patients achieve a more balanced and natural ear appearance. Whether you feel self-conscious about protruding ears, asymmetry, or misshapen ear cartilage, otoplasty can help restore confidence and refine your appearance. This procedure is commonly performed on both children and adults, providing long-lasting results with minimal downtime.

What is Otoplasty?

Otoplasty is a cosmetic procedure that reshapes and repositions the ears to improve their size, shape, or symmetry. The surgery typically addresses protruding ears, helping to create a more natural appearance by pinning the ears closer to the head. It can also correct deformities caused by injury or birth defects, such as overly large ears or misshapen ear cartilage. Otoplasty is a highly customizable procedure, and Dr. Cohen works closely with each patient to achieve their desired results while maintaining a natural, proportional look.

ALWAYS YOU, ALWAYS NATURAL

Otoplasty (Ear Pinning) Before and Afters

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Who is a Candidate for Otoplasty?

Ideal candidates for otoplasty are individuals who are self-conscious about their ears’ size, shape, or position. This procedure is suitable for patients of all ages, though it is often performed on children between the ages of five and fourteen when ear cartilage is more flexible and fully developed. Candidates should have good overall health and realistic expectations about the outcome. Dr. Cohen will assess your specific concerns during a consultation and develop a personalized treatment plan to achieve the most natural-looking results.

What to Expect During Otoplasty

Otoplasty is typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation for adults or general anesthesia for children. Dr. Cohen will make small incisions behind the ears to access and reshape the cartilage. Depending on the patient’s goals, excess cartilage and skin may be removed, and the ear will be repositioned closer to the head. The incisions are carefully closed with sutures, and because they are placed behind the ear, any scarring is virtually invisible. The procedure generally takes one to two hours, and patients can return home the same day.

Recovery and Results

After otoplasty, patients may experience mild swelling, bruising, or discomfort, typically subsiding within a few days. Dr. Cohen will provide specific aftercare instructions, including how to care for the surgical site and avoid putting pressure on the ears during the healing process. A protective headband may be recommended to support the ears during recovery. Most patients can return to light activities within a week, with full recovery expected in about two to three weeks. Otoplasty offers long-lasting results, providing a more proportionate and balanced ear appearance.

World-Renowned Facial Plastic Surgeon

DOUBLE BOARD-CERTIFIED SURGEON

Justin C. Cohen, MD, FACS

At The Cohen Clinic patients receive more than just rejuvenating surgical and cosmetic treatments. Dr. Justin Cohen takes the time to truly understand his patients and their unique goals. He gives honest recommendations and believes every result should be natural and personalized.

Nationally Certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery

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Patient Stories

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I am very pleased with my results with Dr.Cohen. I love his bedside manner and he never pressured me or recommended other unnecessary procedures. I highly recommend you get a consultation and see for yourself. His staff is also very kind and accommodated my very busy schedule. Dr.Cohen was highly recommended to me by my aesthetician.

- Carolina F

Pure magic! Results that can’t be beat. When you meet Dr. Cohen you know immediately why he has a record of perfect 5 star reviews. He is the Gold Standard. Yes, he is that good. And honestly, Dr. Cohen should teach a Master Class on patient care. Talented. Compassionate. Caring. Dr. Cohen treats everyone as an individual, and not just a name on a chart. Did I mention he’s also a genuinely kind human being? If you are considering any sort of facial procedure, Dr. Cohen should be your first and only stop.

- Janet A

I cannot say enough good things about Dr. Cohen and his entire office. Not only is Dr. Cohen a master of his trade but he is the kindest doctor ever. The people in his office are outstanding in their knowledge and treatment of the patient. I have no hesitation recommending him.

- Marilyn S
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Schedule a Consultation

If you are considering otoplasty, Dr. Cohen and the expert team at The Cohen Clinic for Plastic Surgery in McLean, Virginia, are here to guide you through the process. Contact us today through our online contact form to schedule a consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long is ear surgery?

Cosmetic ear surgery is performed for various reasons. Small procedures, such as earlobe reduction or earlobe repair, can often be done under local anesthesia and take minutes. More complicated procedures, like otoplasty or “ear pinning,” can take around 30-60 minutes per side.

How long is otoplasty surgery?

Otoplasty surgery, or “ear pinning”, is a cosmetic ear surgery that is generally performed to fold back ears that are overly protruding. The procedure can typically be done under local or IV sedation anesthesia and usually takes about 30-60 minutes per side.

How is ear surgery done?

Cosmetic ear surgery can be performed for many reasons. If the ear “sticks out” too much then sutures can be used to pull the cartilage of the ear closer to the head. If portions of the ear are too long or large, then a custom procedure can be done to remove parts of the skin, soft tissue, or cartilage to reshape the ear as needed. These procedures can typically be performed under local or IV sedation anesthesia.

How long does it take to recover from an ear surgery?

Recovering from cosmetic ear surgery is generally straightforward and typically takes 1 to 2 weeks of initial healing. Minor bruising and swelling should be expected, along with minor discomfort.

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