Ear Pinning Surgery Cost and Procedure Guide

Ear pinning surgery is a procedure that has been transforming lives and boosting self-confidence for decades. While often overlooked in discussions about cosmetic procedures, this surgery addresses a concern that can significantly impact an individual's self-image and social interactions.

Protruding or asymmetrical ears can be a source of self-consciousness and even bullying at younger ages and can continue to impact self-esteem and confidence as people age.

Here’s what you should know as you explore the benefits, side effects and considerations of this potentially life-changing procedure.

What Is Ear Pinning Surgery?

Ear pinning, also known as otoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure that repositions protruding ears closer to the head to enhance facial symmetry and overall aesthetic balance. While ear pinning specifically refers to this repositioning, otoplasty is a broader procedure that can also include ear reduction and ear augmentation due to injury or congenital differences.¹

Commonly performed on younger children, adults also choose this procedure to improve their appearance. Sometimes only one ear requires correction, but surgeons often pin back both to achieve symmetry.²

How Much Does Ear Pinning Surgery Cost?

The national average cost* of ear pinning surgery is $3,981 but can range between $3,065 and $6,437. Costs will vary based on the type of correction needed, the surgeon’s experience, facility location and anesthesia type.³

Average cost of ear pinning surgery by state/district

Below is a breakdown of the average cost* of ear pinning surgery by all 50 states and the District of Columbia.³

Is Ear Pinning Surgery Covered by Insurance?

Ear pinning surgery is generally considered a cosmetic procedure and, in most cases, it is not covered by health insurance. Insurance companies typically classify otoplasty as an elective surgery unless it is performed to address medical symptoms or restore hearing. Pre-authorization is often necessary for coverage or reimbursement, so it's important to check with your insurance provider before scheduling any surgery.⁴

Candidates for Ear Pinning Surgery

Caregivers often consider ear pinning surgery for children around 5 years old, when their ear cartilage has stabilized enough for the correction to be effective.⁵ Typically, a child's ears reach their full growth by age 4.⁶

Patients should be in good health and free from untreated chronic ear infections.⁵ It’s also recommended that they be able to voice their own opinions when the procedure is proposed, as those who desire the surgery are generally more cooperative during the healing process.⁶

Many teens and adults who haven’t had the benefit of ear pinning surgery as a child may decide to have the procedure later in life. A provider will assess the potential patient, typically ensuring they are healthy and a nonsmoker.⁵

How Does Ear Pinning Surgery Work?

Ear pinning surgery is typically a safe procedure, but it's important to understand the process to make an informed choice. Here’s what you might expect during an ear-pinning procedure.

Preparation

Before ear pinning surgery, your plastic or cosmetic surgeon will ensure you've undergone a medical evaluation and any necessary lab tests. They will review your current medications and make adjustments as needed. It's likely they will recommend you avoid aspirin, certain anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements that can increase bleeding. If you smoke, you should stop well in advance of the surgery.⁷

Procedure

The procedure may take place in the physician’s clinic, an outpatient surgery center or a hospital.¹ Ear pinning surgery is typically performed in one of two ways:²

• The surgeon may use stitches to position the ears closer to the head without removing any skin or cartilage.
• The surgeon may make a discreet incision in the natural crease behind the ear where it meets the head, removing some cartilage and skin. The cartilage may be trimmed into a more aesthetically pleasing shape, and permanent sutures are then used to secure the cartilage, allowing the ear to heal in this desired position.

Patients may undergo general anesthesia, or they may opt for a sedative combined with a local anesthesia to be awake but relaxed and pain-free.¹

Recovery

After surgery, the doctor will apply soft dressings to the ears, which will remain in place for a few days. Once the dressing is removed, the results are immediate, though the ears may initially appear to be overcorrected. As healing continues over the next one to two weeks, they will settle into their natural look, and after three to four weeks, you can be assured of your results.⁸

Patients typically experience mild discomfort during the recovery period, which can be managed with medication prescribed by the doctor. Swelling, bruising and/or numbness may occur but should subside within a few days to a few weeks.⁹

A potential sign to watch for is a sensation resembling an electric shock in the ears. While this might seem concerning, it's actually a good sign because it indicates that the nerves are recovering from the surgery. These effects should subside within 18 months.¹⁰

Because it’s important to avoid putting pressure on the ear areas, sleep patterns may be disrupted by surgery. Many patients find it most comfortable to sleep with their head elevated, either in a recliner or on their back with at least two pillows.⁹

Patients should also be careful not to disturb the ear area by refraining from wearing glasses or earrings for three weeks.¹ Similarly, patients should avoid pull-over clothing and chewing hard foods for two weeks.⁹ A supportive headband provided by the doctor should be worn day and night for several weeks to stabilize the ears.¹

Patients should also avoid strenuous physical activity for two weeks and refrain from contact sports for six weeks. A follow-up visit with the provider is recommended 24 hours after surgery and then again in one week.⁹

Potential Side Effects of Ear Pinning Surgery

All surgeries carry potential side effects due to anesthesia, and most concerns with ear pinning surgery appear to be minimal. However, there are a few:¹¹

• Overcorrection. If the ear has been pulled too close to the head, the patient may wish to have it corrected, a process that uses cartilage grafts to return the ear to a more natural position.
• Undercorrection. A patient may want more setback on their ears, which is relatively easy to correct through a surgery similar to the first ear pinning.
• Scarring. While minimal scarring may occur, it is typically unobtrusive, such as a thin scar behind the ear.²

Is Ear Pinning Surgery Right for You?

If your protruding ears are affecting your self-esteem, confidence or overall quality of life, consider consulting with a plastic surgeon. They can discuss your concerns, evaluate your ear shape and size and determine if otoplasty is right for you. With careful consideration and expert guidance, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your personal goals and aesthetic aspirations.

Financing Ear Pinning Surgery With the CareCredit Credit Card

Ready to revitalize your appearance and boost your confidence? The CareCredit credit card makes it easy to pay for ear pinning surgery and related expenses not covered by health insurance.** Use our Acceptance Locator to find a doctor or cosmetic surgeon near you that accepts CareCredit so you can stop dreaming and start living your best life. Continue your wellness journey by downloading the CareCredit Mobile App to manage your CareCredit account, find a provider on the go and easily access the Well U blog for more great articles, podcasts and videos.

In addition to cosmetic procedures, you can also use your CareCredit credit card for dentistry, pet care, vision, hearing, health systems, dermatology, pharmacy purchases, spa treatments and so much more within the CareCredit network. How will you invest in your health and wellness next?

Author Bio

Cathie Ericson is an Oregon-based freelance writer who covers personal finance and health and fitness, among other topics. Her work has appeared in a wide range of publications and websites, including U.S. News & World Report, MSN, Business Insider, Yahoo Finance, MarketWatch, Fast Company, Realtor.com and more.