Pinnaplasty and Otoplasty in London

‍Pinnaplasty, also known as otoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to correct prominent ears and restore a more natural balance between the ears and the face. Dr Eamon Shamil performs refined ear reshaping surgery in Harley Street, London, with a focus on subtle, natural-looking results.

What Is Pinnaplasty?

Pinnaplasty is a precise ear reshaping procedure that repositions prominent ears closer to the head. It can also improve ear shape, symmetry, and proportion.

Prominent ears are not a medical problem, but they can affect confidence and facial balance. The aim of surgery is not to create “perfect” ears, but to restore a natural appearance that fits harmoniously with the rest of the face.

What Causes Prominent Ears?

Prominent ears are usually due to one or more anatomical features, including:

• Underdevelopment of the antihelical fold
• An enlarged or prominent conchal bowl
• Ear asymmetry
• Ear size or projection relative to the face

During consultation, Dr Shamil assesses the size, shape, projection, and symmetry of both ears to plan a tailored correction.

How Is Pinnaplasty Performed?

Pinnaplasty is usually performed as a day-case procedure under local or general anaesthetic, depending on the patient and treatment plan.

During surgery:

• A discreet incision is placed behind the ear
• The ear cartilage is carefully reshaped
• The antihelical fold may be recreated
• The conchal bowl may be repositioned
• The ear is set back into a more balanced position

The procedure usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.

Hidden incisions and natural results

Because the incision is placed behind the ear, there is usually no visible scar from the front. The surgical goal is subtle improvement, not an obvious operated look.

Pinnaplasty Recovery

Recovery from pinnaplasty is usually straightforward.

Most patients can expect:

• A light dressing initially
• Same-day discharge
• Mild bruising and swelling for 1–2 weeks
• A soft headband worn at night for several weeks
• Avoidance of strenuous activity and contact sports while the cartilage stabilises

Final results continue to settle over several months as swelling fully resolves.

What Results Can I Expect?

A successful pinnaplasty should make the ears look less prominent and better balanced with the face.

The result should be:

• Natural
• Symmetrical where possible
• Refined
• Understated
• Not overcorrected

The best otoplasty results do not draw attention to the ears — they simply make the ears feel more in proportion.

Risks and Considerations

As with all surgery, pinnaplasty carries potential risks. These include bleeding, haematoma, infection, delayed healing, scarring, asymmetry, under-correction, recurrence of prominence, and temporary changes in skin sensation.

All risks and expectations are discussed carefully during consultation.