Otoplasty is surgery that reshapes the outer ear so it sits closer to the head or looks more even. It can help ears that stick out, ears with a weak fold, or ears that look uneven after injury. The surgeon usually makes a cut behind the ear, then bends or trims cartilage and holds the new shape with internal stitches. Because the cut is hidden in the crease, scars are hard to see once healed. Many people search for “ear pinning,” “fix protruding ears,” and “otoplasty near me” when they want a natural look that does not seem over-pulled. Otoplasty is often outpatient, and comfort is managed with local numbing, sedation, or general anesthesia based on the plan.

In Otoplasty, the goal is balance, not “pinned back” ears. A provider measures how far the ear sits from the head and checks the key curves, like the antihelix fold and the bowl of the ear. Some ears need a new fold made with stitches, while others need a small cartilage trim to lower the “cup” shape. If one ear is more prominent, each side can be adjusted differently to match. Swelling can hide details at first, so early photos may look uneven. Most people see a big change once the first bandage comes off, but the final fine shape keeps settling for weeks. A soft headband often protects the ears while they heal and helps prevent bending during sleep.

Healing from Otoplasty is usually steady. The first days can bring soreness, tightness, and swelling, with tenderness when you touch the ears. Your team may ask you to sleep on your back with your head raised and avoid rubbing or pulling on the ears. Kids and teens may need a short break from rough play, and adults often pause heavy workouts for a few weeks. Numbness can happen and often improves over time. Most people return to school or desk work in about a week, but you should protect the ears from sun and impact until cleared. Full settling may take a few months, even though you look “done” much sooner.