Ear Pinning in Portland

Ear pinning, also known as ear surgery or otoplasty, is performed to help the patient’s ears lie closer to the scalp, correcting overly prominent, unbalanced, or asymmetrical ears. The surgery can have tremendous emotional and social benefits, especially for young children facing teasing or bullying at school because of their appearance.

What is Ear Pinning?

Ear pinning is a type of cosmetic surgery that repositions the ears closer to the head. While it is often performed for young children and teens who are self-conscious about ears that stick out, adults are also candidates for the surgery. Anyone who is unhappy with protruding ears can benefit from ear pinning in Portland with Dr. Michael Kim, as the surgery can create a more attractive, balanced appearance and enhance self-confidence. Ear pinning is a type of otoplasty. Other types of otoplasty can be performed to reconstruct damaged or missing ear tissue or reshape overly large ears.

What are the Benefits of Ear Pinning?

Enhances symmetry and balance
Repositions the ears closer to the scalp
Improves self-confidence
Reduces the likelihood of bullying, teasing, or taunting
Allows patients to better enjoy wearing short hairstyles

Who is a Good Candidate for Ear Pinning?

Ear pinning can be performed as soon as the ears have finished growing. This usually occurs by the time the child is five years old. A good time for the child to undergo surgery is during winter or summer break when they will have ample time to heal and rest.

For individuals of all ages, the surgery is safe and effective provided that the patient is in good health, is a non-smoker, and is free from any uncontrolled medical concerns. Patients should have realistic expectations for their results, understanding that cosmetic surgery can bring improvement but not perfection.

Ear Surgery Before & After

Learn More about Ear Surgery

What will the Procedure Entail?

Ear pinning surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia and takes approximately two hours to complete. One or more incisions are then created behind the ears, allowing Dr. Kim to adjust or remove the excess cartilage that causes the ears to protrude. Careful attention is paid to symmetry and balance at this stage of the surgery. Once the ears are ideally positioned, the doctor will close the incisions with fine sutures. Gauze dressings and compression bandages are then applied to the ears to keep their new shape intact.

What Can I Expect From the Recovery Process?

After ear pinning, the ears may feel itchy, painful, or throbbing. Patients will receive the appropriate prescription medications to help combat any discomfort, and these side effects should completely fade within a few weeks. The ear bandages should be left in place for the time being. They will be removed in about one week after surgery. Patients will need to be driven home after the surgery and may need assistance for the first 24 hours. They should avoid wearing glasses or earrings for 3-4 weeks.

Why Choose Dr. Michael Kim for Ear Pinning?

Dr. Michael Kim, a native of the Pacific Northwest, is a sought-after aesthetic expert in the region, known for his compassionate demeanor, dedication to patient safety, and exquisite results. After receiving his undergrad degree at the prestigious Princeton University, Dr. Kim completed his medical training at the world-renowned University of Washington School of Medicine.

He continued to advance in his career, pursuing a demanding residency in Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery at the elite Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland before being selected for fellowship training in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive surgery at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), in Portland, Oregon. Dr. Kim’s exclusive, world-class training in aesthetics, combined with his innate passion for precision and detail make him the ideal choice for discerning patients undergoing ear pinning surgery in Portland.

Ear Pinning FAQ's

What is the best age to undergo ear pinning in Portland?

Most ear pinning patients are between 5 and 15 years old. The ears must be fully grown before ear pinning can be performed. While there is no right age to undergo the surgery, some suggest that sooner is better so that children with protruding ears can avoid being teased, bullied, or taunted at school. For adults, overall health is a more defining characteristic of candidacy than age.

Are ear pinning results permanent?

Yes, ear pinning results are long-lasting and sustainable. It is exceedingly rare that someone would need a second surgery.

Is ear pinning painful?

Ear surgery in Portland is performed using general anesthesia, which means the patient is asleep the whole time and feels no pain or sensations. After surgery, painkillers can be taken to reduce discomfort. Dr. Kim and his team will ensure you are perfectly relaxed and well-taken care of throughout your surgical journey.

Will ear pinning leave visible scars?

Incisions for ear pinning are typically placed behind the ears, where they are naturally concealed in the crease between the ear and scalp. As healing progresses, scars generally fade significantly and are rarely noticeable.

Can ear pinning correct one ear that sticks out more than the other?

Yes. Ear pinning can address one prominent ear or improve asymmetry when one ear sits farther from the head than the other. Dr. Kim carefully evaluates ear shape and positioning to create a balanced, natural-looking result that complements your facial features.

What are the risks associated with ear pinning?

Ear pinning is considered a safe and well-established procedure, but like any surgery, there are potential risks. These may include temporary swelling, bruising, infection, bleeding, changes in skin sensation, or asymmetry during healing. Dr. Kim uses meticulous surgical techniques and provides detailed aftercare instructions to help minimize risks and support a smooth recovery.

Schedule Consultation

503-850-0414 Contact Us