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| | | Ear pinning, also called otoplasty, is a procedure typically done on patients whose ears stick out noticeably; it also can correct large ear lobes or ears that fold forward. | | |
| Typical costs: | - Ear pinning typically costs $3,000 to $5,000 for both ears. For example, Heartland Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surgery in Kansas charges about $3,000. The Atlanta Institute for Facial Aesthetic Surgery charges about $3,500 to $4,500. Dr. Heather Rocheford, in Minnesota, charges $4,100. Facial Aesthetic Surgery in Ohio charges $4,000 to $5,000. And Dr. German Newall in Texas also charges about $4,000 to $5,000.
- Ear pinning usually is considered a cosmetic procedure, so it typically is not covered by health insurance, unless it is being done to correct a congenital defect or deformity caused by injury or disease. For example, BlueCross BlueShield of Mississippi considers ear pinning to be a cosmetic procedure and does not cover it except in cases of deformed ears resulting from trauma or disease. And Aetna considers it to be cosmetic when it will not correct hearing. In rare cases, some insurance companies cover ear pinning for children.
What should be included: | - The surgeon will make an incision behind the ear, pull back the skin, sometimes trim cartilage, then place sutures to hold the ear closer to the head. Ear pinning typically is done under general anesthesia or local anesthesia combined with sedative; it lasts one to two hours and is an outpatient procedure.
- The American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery provides an overview of otoplasty.
- Typically, ear pinning patients must take a few days to a week off school or work.
Additional costs: | - The doctor usually prescribes pain medication to be taken for about a week.
- A headband, which typically costs less than $30, must be worn for about a week or two after surgery.
Discounts: | - Adults sometimes choose to combine other cosmetic procedures with ear pinning, and many plastic surgeons offer discounts for multiple procedures.
Shopping for otoplasty: | - A good candidate for ear pinning has large, protruding or deformed ears, is in good health and is at least five years old.
- Tip: Make sure the doctor is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and has privileges at an accredited hospital, even if the surgery is not taking place there. Both the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery offer referral services.
- Discuss your expectations with your surgeon, ask how many ear pinning procedures he or she has done, and ask to see before-and-after photos of previous patients.
- Risks include an allergic reaction to anesthesia, infection, scarring, temporary or permanent numbness, asymmetry and dissatisfaction with results.
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Material on this page is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always consult your physician or pharmacist regarding medications or medical procedures.
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Article updated February 2010 |
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