One of the most common aesthetic ear complaints is protruding ears. Many children are born with ears that seem to “stick out” and are very noticeable. While protruding ears are a normal trait and usually due to genetics, it can be embarrassing for children and adults. Otoplasty, or ear pinning, is a procedure that can resolve protruding ears, and we offer this surgical option at Maia Plastic Surgery in Tysons Corner, VA.

Children with protruding ears are often the target of teasing. Even adults can be cruel to those who have ears that seem too large or prominent. In most cases, it is only a small amount of extra cartilage that makes the ears turn outward or seem unnaturally large in comparison to other facial features. There are several different surgical techniques that can be used to reduce the prominence of the ears or bring the ears closer to the head. Otoplasty, or ear pinning, procedures can be performed on both children and adults to create the desired ear appearance.

Protruding Ear Correction

Most otoplasty procedures can be performed under a local anesthetic. Ear pinning involves using sutures to bring the back of the upper, outer ear closer to the head, correcting the protrusion. In some cases, there is too much cartilage to simply “pin” the ears back, requiring the removal of some of this cartilage to create the desired effect. This procedure can be performed on children once their ears are fully mature, around age 5-6, or on teens and adults.

Dr. Munique Maia is a board certified plastic surgeon with years of experience performing otoplasty and other cosmetic surgeries. If you are concerned with the appearance of your child’s ears or you want to address your own protruding ears, contact us at Maia Plastic Surgery. We can schedule an otoplasty consultation with Dr. Maia at our medical clinic in the Washington, DC, area.