Medically reviewed by Sumiran Racherla, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor provides Ear Surgery?
A plastic surgeon or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist, also called an otolaryngologist, performs ear surgery. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
Ear surgery, also called otoplasty or ear pinning, is a procedure to improve the appearance of the ear. The most common type moves very large or prominent ears closer to the head. Ear surgery can also improve the shape, position, and proportion of the ear. These procedures do not change a person's hearing.
Why a doctor might recommend it
The surgery is often done to reduce self-consciousness or embarrassment about the shape of the ears. It can help people born with underdeveloped, protruding, or drooping ears. It can also repair ears that were damaged by an injury, such as a torn earlobe. Children can have the surgery after the ears reach full size, which is usually at five or six years old.
How to prepare
- Tell your surgeon if you are or could be pregnant.
- Tell your surgeon about all medicines and supplements you take, including those you bought without a prescription.
- If you smoke, cut back or quit, because smoking can slow healing and raise the risk of blood clots.
- Your surgeon may ask you to pause medicines that thin the blood, and your surgeon decides which ones.
- Follow instructions about when to stop eating and drinking.
What happens during it
Local anesthesia numbs the area around the ears. General anesthesia, which keeps you asleep and pain-free, is the preferred method in children. The surgery usually lasts about 2 hours. In the most common method, the surgeon makes a cut in the back of the ear and removes skin to see the ear cartilage. The cartilage is folded to reshape the ear and bring it closer to the head. Stitches close the wound.
Recovery
After surgery, the ears are covered with thick bandages that press on them a little. You can usually go home once you are awake from the anesthesia. The bandages are usually removed after 2 to 4 days. You will need to wear a head wrap or headband for 2 to 3 weeks to help the ears heal. Call your surgeon if you have severe ear pain, which can be a sign of infection of the ear cartilage. Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you have bleeding that will not stop, trouble breathing, chest pain lasting two minutes or more, or fainting.
Risks and side effects
Risks of surgery and anesthesia in general include reactions to medicines, breathing problems, bleeding, blood clots, and infection. Risks of ear surgery itself include areas of numbness, a collection of blood called a hematoma, and an increased feeling of cold. The ear shape can come back, scars called keloids can form, and results can be poor. A second procedure may be needed if the ear sticks out again. Scars are very light and hidden in the creases behind the ears.
Who performs it
An ENT specialist, also called an otolaryngologist, can perform otoplasty. Ear surgery may also be done by a board-certified plastic surgeon. It may take place in the surgeon's office, an outpatient clinic, or a hospital.
Common questions
Does insurance pay for ear surgery?
Insurance usually does not cover surgery done only for cosmetic reasons. Insurance may cover surgery to correct a defect present at birth or caused by an injury. Talk with your insurance carrier before the surgery.
At what age can a child have ear surgery?
A child can have ear surgery after the ears reach full size, usually at five or six years old. Surgery at a young age has two benefits. The cartilage is more pliable, so it is easier to reshape, and the child gets the psychological benefits of the cosmetic improvement.
How long does ear surgery take?
Ear surgery usually takes about 2 hours.
How does a direct primary care or concierge doctor fit in?
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
Sources
- MedlinePlus - Cosmetic ear surgery
- ENT Health - Ear Plastic Surgery
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons - Ear Surgery Risks and Safety
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
