Ears are more vulnerable to injury than many people realize. Trauma, sports accidents, or untreated childhood injuries can permanently alter ear shape and position. For patients dealing with these changes, questions like how is otoplasty performed? and whether ear pinning surgery in Utah can help are common.
At Aspen Facial Plastic Surgery, otoplasty is approached with both reconstruction and aesthetics in mind—restoring balance while preserving natural anatomy. As a leader in Utah facial plastic surgery, Aspen specializes in precise ear procedures for both adults and children.
Common Ear Injuries That Affect Shape and Position
Ear injuries can occur at any age and may impact both appearance and function. Common causes include:
- Sports-related trauma (wrestling, football, martial arts)
- Accidents or falls
- Dog bites or lacerations
- Untreated childhood ear injuries
- Scar tissue formation after trauma
These injuries may lead to protruding ears, asymmetry, cartilage distortion, or permanent shape changes that do not correct on their own.
How Is Otoplasty Performed?
Understanding how otoplasty is performed helps patients feel confident about the procedure. Otoplasty, also known as ear pinning surgery, reshapes and repositions the ears closer to the head for a more balanced appearance.
The procedure typically includes:
- Incisions hidden behind the ear
- Reshaping or repositioning ear cartilage
- Securing the ear in a natural position
- Closing incisions with minimal visible scarring
Otoplasty can correct both congenital ear shape concerns and deformities caused by injury.
When Ear Pinning Surgery Is Recommended
Ear pinning surgery in Utah may be recommended when:
- Ears protrude significantly from the head
- Trauma has altered ear symmetry
- Scar tissue affects ear position
- Previous injuries caused cartilage deformity
Both adults and children can be excellent candidates, and surgery can be life-changing for patients who feel self-conscious due to ear appearance.
Ear Injuries in Children vs. Adults
Children:
Early correction can prevent long-term emotional impact and bullying. Injuries or prominent ears are often addressed once ear growth is nearly complete.
Adults:
Adults may seek otoplasty years after an injury or to correct asymmetry that has become more noticeable over time. Adult otoplasty focuses on restoring natural contours without an overcorrected look.
Recovery and Healing After Otoplasty
Most patients experience:
- Mild swelling and tenderness
- A protective headband during early healing
- Return to normal activities within 1–2 weeks
Results are long-lasting, and scars are typically hidden behind the ear.
Why Choose Aspen Facial Plastic Surgery?
The ear is composed of delicate cartilage that requires specialized expertise. As a trusted provider of Utah facial plastic surgery, Aspen Facial Plastic Surgery focuses exclusively on facial procedures, ensuring advanced skill in otoplasty and ear reconstruction.
Each surgical plan is customized to account for injury history, cartilage integrity, and aesthetic goals.
Restoring Balance After Ear Injury
Whether caused by trauma, sports injuries, or congenital concerns, ear deformities can impact confidence at any age. If you’re considering ear pinning surgery in Utah, a consultation at Aspen Facial Plastic Surgery can help determine the safest and most effective approach.
Expert care makes all the difference.