Should I get my ears pinned?
Mia Moss
Published Jan 17, 2026
Generally, ear correction surgery is safe and most people are happy with the results. However there are risks to consider, and it may be expensive. Pinning back the ears is known as an otoplasty or pinnaplasty. It's usually done on children and young teenagers, although adults can also have it done.
Is ear pinning necessary?
Is treatment always necessary? Treatment is not always necessary. Some irregularities will resolve without intervention. A suitable time to have an otoplasty is when a child is 5–6 years old and 90% of their ears' growth is complete.When should you pin your ears?
Ear pinning is a specific type of cosmetic ear surgery (also called otoplasty.) The procedure draws protruding ears closer to the sides of the face, and is most commonly performed on children at age 5 or 6, but some adults choose ear pinning to improve their appearance.How painful is it to have your ears pinned back?
Ear pinning surgery isn't painful, as patients are placed under general anesthesia for the surgery. However, you may feel some discomfort immediately after the procedure, as your ears will be bandaged to reduce swelling and preserve healing.How much does it cost to pin back ears?
According to statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), the national average cost for an Otoplasty is $2,965. However, it's important to note that this cost is an estimate and does not factor in the common surgery-related expenses or geographic location, and these can vary dramatically.Watch This before Getting Ear Pinning! (How to Choose a Surgeon)
Does otoplasty last forever?
Permanent ResultsThis procedure usually creates permanent changes in your ears. If you follow our instructions after you get this procedure, your ears should maintain their new appearance for the rest of your life.
Is an otoplasty worth it?
Ear reshaping (otoplasty) also improves the shape of the ear to correct the appearance of protruding ears and specialized techniques may also improve deformities of the ear. This is why otoplasty procedures have a 96% worth-it rating on RealSelf. It also corrects the heavy neck or double chin.How long is recovery after ear pinning?
While you may immediately notice some improvement in the shape and position of your ears, it will take up to 8 weeks for them to fully set in and heal. Most patients are able to return to work after the first week of ear surgery, but you must avoid contact sports for at least one month after the procedure.Can Big ears be made smaller?
During otoplasty, your doctor will surgically change the shape, position or size of your ears. Incisions can be made on the backs of the ears, as shown above, or within the inner creases of the ears. Otoplasty — also known as cosmetic ear surgery — is a procedure to change the shape, position or size of the ears.How do I stop my ears sticking out?
Fixing ears that stick outThese range from temporary non-surgical methods such as ear clips and tape, to otoplasty surgery, also known as ear pinning or pinnaplasty. You may choose to have otoplasty if you're bothered by how far your ears stick out from your head.