Ear correction & pinning surgery

Approximately 1 to 2% of the population in the UK consider their ears to be too prominent, usually because they stick out more than normal. In many cases the shape and lie of the ears is inherited, and a family trend can be seen. The most prominent ears often lack a normal fold, and sometimes one ear is more prominent than the other.

Ear correction surgery or ear pinning – also known as otoplasty or pinnaplasty – aims to restore the ears to a more natural position when they are prominent, or to correct any noticeable difference in the shape of the ears.

Why you might need ear correction surgery

Most patients interested in this surgery are self-conscious of their appearance because of their prominent ears. Some patients are children who dislike the size or shape of their ears, whereas others are adults who have a lack of self confidence because of their ears.

Whilst most cases of prominent ears become a problem in early childhood – often relating to teasing at school – Mr Sherif Wilson MB, ChB, MS, FRCS (Plastic Surgery) advises that surgery for prominent ears is not undertaken until the child is old enough to understand what the surgery involves. At this stage the child is more likely to be cooperative and happy with the outcome. For this reason, and because ear cartilage is often soft in the early years, operations for prominent ears are rarely performed on children under the age of five.

Assessment for this surgery

Before undertaking this surgery, you will have a private consultation with Mr Wilson where he will assess the size of shape of your ears and answer any questions you may have. Mr Wilson believes it is very important that every patient is comfortable and understands what will happen during surgery, and therefore the consultation is a very important part of the surgical process.

What does this procedure involve?

During a pinnaplasty operation, Mr Wilson will make cuts behind each ear and adjust the shape of the cartilage within the ear to create the missing folds and to allow the ear to lie closer to the side of the head. Because the operation is carried out from behind the ears, a small scar is left close to the groove between the ear and the side of the head. The procedure can be carried out under local anaesthetic, but in young children a general anaesthetic is usually required.

Before and after gallery

Mr Wilson is able to go through before and after photos of this procedure with you during your consultation if required.

Going home after surgery

You will normally be able to return home the same day as the surgery is conducted. Naturally, the ears will be sore and tender for a few days following the procedure. A large, bulky protective dressing is usually worn after the surgery until the wound is checked a week after surgery. Once the dressing has been discarded, initially it is wise to wear a protective headband or bandage when sleeping to avoid the ears being bent forward against the pillow.

The scar behind the ear usually settles well, but on rare occasions it can become red and lumpy. A small number of patients, particularly those who are very sensitive about the precise shape of their ears, may require a minor adjustment procedure. The vast majority of patients, however, are pleased by the result, and the procedure has a high satisfaction rate.

Most patients are able to return to work or school after around one week. You should be able to see the end result of surgery within six weeks or less.

How much does this surgery cost?

Depending on the type of procedure you require, the cost of surgery can vary.

These are guide prices are for local anesthetic surgery and are subject to change following an initial consultation with Mr Wilson, where a bespoke quote will be provided, specific to each patient.

At Nuffield Bristol Hospital
From £4,600 (bilateral)

At Spire Bristol Hospital
From £5,100 (bilateral)

At BMI Bath Clinic
From £4,400

At Winfield Hospital (Gloucester)
From £4,800 (bilateral)

At St Josephs Newport
From £4,300 (bilateral)

There are finance options available which you can find information about on the Spire, Nuffield, Circle Health Group and Winfield hospital websites respectively.

Testimonials

Sherif invites his clients to leave a review about the service he provided on Google (Bristol and Gloucester), as well as Doctify, RealSelf and I Want Great Care.

Please visit the Testimonials page for the very latest, or click on the links directly below this contact form.

Enquire about ear correction & pinning surgery with Mr Wilson

Mr Sherif Wilson MB, ChB, MS, FRCS (Plast)

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Based on 95 reviews

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Jen Moore

10:12 01 Jun 23

I recently underwent a surgical procedure at Spire Clinic on 21st March 2023, under the expert care of Mr Wilson, and I am delighted to share my overwhelmingly positive experience. From the moment I walked through the doors of the clinic until my complete recovery, the service I received was nothing short of exceptional.First and foremost, I must express my sincere gratitude to Mr Wilson. His professionalism, expertise, and compassionate approach were evident from our very first meeting. He took the time to thoroughly explain the procedure, addressing all my concerns and ensuring I had a complete understanding of what to expect. His calm and reassuring demeanor put me at ease, instilling confidence in his abilities as a surgeon.The facilities at Spire Clinic were outstanding. The clinic's clean and welcoming environment helped alleviate any pre-operative anxieties I had. The staff members were friendly, approachable, and always ready to assist me with any questions or requests. From the receptionists to the nurses and support staff, everyone demonstrated a high level of competence and professionalism.Throughout my stay, the nursing team provided attentive care, ensuring my comfort and well-being at all times. They were highly knowledgeable, offering post-operative support and guidance that played a crucial role in my smooth recovery process. Their commitment to patient care was evident in their prompt response to any concerns or discomforts I experienced, making me feel valued and reassured.The post-operative follow-up care I received was exceptional. Mr Wilson regularly checked in on my progress and provided detailed explanations about the healing process. His willingness to address any post-surgery concerns, no matter how minor, further underscored his dedication to ensuring my complete recovery and satisfaction.The administrative staff at Spire Clinic also deserve commendation. They efficiently handled all aspects of my stay, including scheduling appointments, coordinating with my insurance provider, and addressing any billing inquiries. Their professionalism and attention to detail contributed to a seamless and hassle-free experience.In summary, my experience at Spire Clinic, under the care of Mr. Wilson, was exemplary. The clinic's commitment to excellence, paired with Mr. Wilson's expertise and compassionate care, made a significant impact on my overall satisfaction with the service I received. I would highly recommend Spire Clinic and Mr. Wilson to anyone in need of surgical care, confident that they will provide the same exceptional level of service that I was fortunate enough to experience.Thank you, Spire Clinic and Mr. Wilson, for your unwavering commitment to patient well-being and for exceeding my expectations at every step of my journey!!

Millie Taylor

09:06 17 May 23

There are so many options when considering surgery, it can be a bit overwhelming as it's such a huge decision. Sherif was recommended to me by a friend of a friend, who talked very highly of him and his work. My first consultation with Sherif was informative and relaxed, there was no pressure to progress with the surgery and I felt I was in good hands. I was given time and space to make my decision, and felt comfortable asking any further questions. The surgery itself went smoothly, I felt safe and well looked after. My recovery went better than I'd imagined and I was comfortably back at work within 2 weeks. I'm now 11 weeks post op and I'm loving the results - it really is life changing, and I'm so glad I did it, and chose Sherif to do it. Huge thanks to him and his team.

lauren priestley

21:56 01 Aug 22

At my first consultation with Mr Wilson he made me feel comfortable and after explaining how specific I wanted my surgery to look, he took so much time explaining the procedure and answered all my questions and advised me on what my best option was.I am so pleased with the results.Him and all his lovely team were highly professional, helpful and very supportive during my surgery and during my post surgery follow up appointments.I cannot express enough how talented Mr Wilson is and I would highly recommend him.

Charmaine Griffin

11:16 28 Jul 22

The service received from Mr Wilson and his secretary has been amazing. Kim has always been prompt and professional with all of our contact. At the initial consultation with Mr Wilson, he made me comfortable and at ease. Mr Wilson has always been so kind and considerate and made sure that he explained the options available to me and what each option would include. Mr Wilson was clear about what the results of each option would likely provide and the risks involved. On the day of my surgery Mr Wilson came to see me prior to the surgery to check that I was happy. The results of the surgery were better than I could ever have imagined. I got a small infection a couple of weeks after surgery and Mr Wilson got me in to see him the same day, provided me with antibiotics and it cleared up right away. I'm now 7 weeks post surgery and feeling right back to normal.

Ashleigh Goodwin

22:12 04 May 22

Wow, I honestly don’t even know where to start. I guess a MASSIVE thank you to Mr Wilson, he has quite frankly changed my life. From the moment I met him I knew that he was the surgeon for me, he listened to what I wanted, was very understanding and caring, he was honest with the outcome and explained everything perfectly. I knew that I had to have him as my surgeon for my Breast Reduction, the minute I left the consultation I booked my surgery, I only had 7 weeks to wait, I was beyond excited. About a week before the surgery I came to see Mr Wilson again just to settle my nerves, and he did just that. My surgery went incredibly well, I felt amazing and just so excited to see the results, I had no complications whatsoever and pain was minimal, the heeling process was so so smooth too. One year on and I am still on cloud nine, the scars are basically non existent and my new breasts are PERFECT. I’m not over exaggerating when I say Mr Wilson has changed my life, he really has done just that, and I will be forever grateful. Will recommend Mr Wilson over and over again to anyone wanting ANY surgery with him. He is incredible!

RealSelf Patient Reviews of Sherif Wilson, FRCS (Plast)