Otoplasty/Ear Pinning Surgery with Dr. John Hilinski: San Diego’s Expert in Ear Shaping
Prominent or protruding ears can significantly affect self-esteem in both children and adults. Children with noticeable ear protrusion may face teasing or feel different from their peers, while adults may try to hide their ears or feel self-conscious in social situations. Otoplasty, also known as ear pinning or ear shaping surgery, is a procedure that repositions and reshapes prominent ears to create a more natural and balanced appearance.
San Diego Otoplasty specialist, Dr. John Hilinski, is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon who specializes in ear surgery. He has extensive experience with both pediatric and adult otoplasty, providing personalized care and natural-looking results for every patient. Dr. Hilinski also performs a variety of other ear procedures, including ear reduction (macrotia surgery), gauge earlobe repair, and earlobe reshaping. His focus on achieving excellent outcomes helps patients feel more confident and comfortable with their appearance.
Dr. Hilinski, Nicole, and team are absolutely amazing! Dr. Hilinski is very knowledgeable, takes the time to thoroughly explain procedures, and has gone above and beyond with patient care during my procedure and throughout all of my follow-ups.
What is Otoplasty?
Otoplasty is a cosmetic surgery used to reposition the ears closer to the head and improve the appearance of congenital ear deformities, such as lop ear or cup ear. The surgery typically makes the ears appear smaller or less prominent. Otoplasty can be performed on both children (around the age of five) and adults, making it a versatile procedure for anyone dissatisfied with the shape or position of their ears.
For children, early intervention can help prevent teasing and psychological distress related to prominent ears, while for adults, otoplasty can provide long-term relief from self-consciousness.
Key Terms and Anatomy in Otoplasty
To understand otoplasty, it’s essential to recognize the key anatomical landmarks of the ear:
Helical Rim (Helix)
The outer border of the ear that forms the ear’s structure.
Antihelix
A ridge within the ear that folds on itself and naturally pulls the upper ear closer to the head. In cases of prominent ears, the antihelix is often underdeveloped, causing the ear to protrude.
Conchal Bowl
The hollow part of the outer ear, which can be overly deep in some patients, pushing the ear away from the head.
Lobule
The fleshy lower part of the ear (earlobe), which may also protrude and require reshaping during otoplasty.
By addressing these anatomical areas, Dr. Hilinski can reshape and reposition the ear for a more balanced and natural look.
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The Otoplasty Procedure
Dr. Hilinski typically performs otoplasty as an outpatient procedure at his AAAASF-certified surgery center. The surgery is usually done under general anesthesia for children and IV sedation or local anesthesia for adults. During the surgery, Dr. Hilinski makes small incisions behind the ears to access the cartilage and reshape it. Permanent sutures are used to hold the ear in its new position, and in some cases, excess cartilage may be removed to achieve the desired shape. The incisions are closed with absorbable sutures, leaving no visible scars.
Recovery and Results
Most patients experience minimal discomfort following otoplasty. Children typically need 1-2 weeks off from school, while adults can return to work in a few days. A compression wrap is applied after surgery to help maintain the new ear shape and prevent complications. Full recovery, including wearing the wrap at night, may take several weeks. The ears will appear slightly overcorrected immediately after surgery but will settle into their natural position over the following weeks and months.
Dr. Hilinski prioritizes patient safety and satisfaction, ensuring that otoplasty results are long-lasting and natural-looking.
Otoplasty FAQ
Otoplasty can be performed once the ears are fully developed, which is typically around the age of five. Performing the surgery at this age can prevent teasing and psychological distress in children. However, otoplasty can also be performed on adults at any age.
Children generally need 1-2 weeks to recover, while adults can return to work in a few days. A compression wrap must be worn for the first week, and nighttime use is recommended for 6-8 weeks to ensure optimal results.
No, Dr. Hilinski typically makes incisions behind the ears, so scars are hidden and nearly invisible after healing.
Most patients experience mild discomfort after surgery, which can be managed with pain medication. The ears may feel tight, but this sensation typically subsides within a few days.
Yes, otoplasty can be combined with other ear surgeries, such as earlobe reshaping or ear reduction (macrotia surgery). Dr. Hilinski will create a customized treatment plan to meet your individual goals.
Yes, the ears will appear overcorrected initially, as they are positioned closer to the head. This is intentional, as the ears will relax into a natural position over the first few months of healing.
Otoplasty results are permanent. The ears will maintain their new shape and position for a lifetime, providing long-term satisfaction.
Why Choose John Hilinski MD Facial Plastic Surgery?
When it comes to facial plastic surgery, choosing a highly qualified surgeon is crucial for achieving your aesthetic goals. Dr. John Hilinski is not only a board-certified facial plastic surgeon but also a respected leader in the field. With training from Harvard Medical School and specialized fellowship training in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, Dr. Hilinski has the experience and expertise to perform a wide range of surgical procedures with precision and artistry.
At our San Diego practice, we are dedicated to providing cutting-edge treatments, including rhinoplasty, facelifts, eyelid surgery, and non-surgical treatments such as Botox and dermal fillers. We prioritize patient safety, comfort, and satisfaction, ensuring that every treatment is tailored to meet your specific needs and aesthetic goals.
Schedule Your Otoplasty Consultation with Dr. Hilinski
If you’re considering otoplasty or ear pinning surgery to improve the appearance of prominent ears, schedule a consultation with Dr. John Hilinski, San Diego’s leading ear surgery specialist. With his extensive experience and personalized approach, Dr. Hilinski helps patients achieve natural-looking, long-lasting results that boost confidence and self-esteem. Contact our office today to begin your journey toward a more balanced appearance.