Can adults get their ears pinned back?
Matthew Perez
Updated on May 24, 2026
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. Ear pinning surgery is not suitable for children younger than 5 because their ears are still growing and developing.
How much does it cost to pin my ears back?
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of otoplasty is $3,156. The cost may be lower or higher depending on factors like the plastic surgeon, your location, and the type of procedure that's used.Can adults have otoplasty?
Otoplasty can safely be performed on children over the age of five as well as adults. While the procedure is often easier on children as the cartilage is more pliable, it's also minimally invasive for adults.Does it hurt to get 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.Can ears be pinned back without surgery?
The only non-surgical technique which may be applicable is ear splinting, such as the use of ear buddies. Ear splints work best for misshapen ears and are less successful for prominent ears.Live Surgery: Otoplasty (Ear Pinning, Ear Shaping, Ear Repair) for prominent ears.
How do you get rid of floppy ears?
For older babies, toddlers, children, and adults who want their ears to stick out less, the only option is surgery. It's called otoplasty and is also known as ear pinning.What do you do if you have big ears?
Surgery to correct protruding ears is called a setback otoplasty. It can be performed as early as 5 to 6 years of age when ears are almost fully grown. The procedure to correct protruding ears is usually performed through an incision behind the ears. The cartilage is reshaped to create an antihelical fold.What is the best age to get your ears pinned back?
It's usually done on children and young teenagers, although adults can also have it done. Ear pinning surgery is not suitable for children younger than 5 because their ears are still growing and developing. At a very young age the ear cartilage is too soft to hold the stitches.Can you fix ears that stick 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.
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.Is ear pinning permanent?
The good news is that otoplasty results are permanent, especially when the procedure is performed in adulthood. Once the ear has grown to its full size, it is unlikely that any natural changes will occur to ears. Therefore, the post surgery look achieved after your operation will be one that can last a life time.Are you awake during ear pinning?
Ear Pinning Surgery: Procedure and CareThe surgeon may opt for a general anesthesia that causes a deep sleep during the surgery, or a combination of sedative medications and local anesthesia, which allows the patient to remain awake but relaxed throughout the procedure.