Frequently asked questions

Why do we have Pinnaplasties?

Bat ears are usually inherited and may cause great distress in childhood, we all know how cruel children can be with their teasing. Adults are also sensitive about their bat ears and short hair fashion has prompted many to have them corrected. Patients just want to have normal average ears that no one looks at. (By the way babies born with bat ears can be corrected by non surgical splinting for 6 weeks.)

Am I a suitable candidate for surgery?

The best candidates are healthy, well motivated and psychologically stable and content. If the space between your skull and the ear is more than 2 centimetres then you are outside of the normal range and therefore qualify for surgery.

What does the operation involve?

My method corrects the abnormal anatomy, usually by reducing the size of the hollow next to the ear hole and increasing the fold that runs up to the top of the ear. Skin is removed and the cartilage is remodelled, kept in place by buried sutures; and the skin closed with dissolving sutures. The earlobe and irregularities along the edge of the ear can also be reduced if required.

What anaesthetic do I need?

It is possible to operate with either a local or general anaesthetic either as a day case or with an overnight stay.

How long does the operation take?

Pinnaplasty takes about 40 minutes.

What happens after surgery?

I usually apply a soft bandage for the first 24 hours, after which time you can remove it and have a hair wash. I recommend wearing the bandage at night for the first week, in case you accidently disturb the ear in your sleep; and you have a course of antibiotics.

What can go wrong?

There can be problems with any operation, namely - Bleeding, Infection, Nerve damage and Scars. Occasionally some slight recurrence of projection occurs which may mean a minor revision procedure later. The ear is a delicate and complicated structure and the outcome is never completely predictable because unexpected movement can occur during healing after surgery. Significant problems are rare and the consultation includes a full analysis of all these possibilities, their likelihood and what you can do to minimise the risks.

What can I do when I get home?

The most important post-operative message is to be very careful for the first week (at least), problems can occur if you do not rest properly and allow things to heal up inside. ‘Keep your head above your heart’, that is, do not stoop unnecessarily and sleeping propped up on extra pillows reduces swelling. It is at least four weeks before you can start significant exercise and longer for contact sports.. Ears are sensitive and you may experience post-operative pain but this is usually controlled by paracetamol.

When can I go back to work?

This varies with occupations, but you should have at least one week clear of major commitments. If you overdo things you can pop a blood vessel and cause bleeding or bruising.

When am I back to normal?

There is considerable variation in return to normal but usually things are settling at one month. Final settling of the scar under the skin takes several months and you must be patient for the final result.

Summary

Pinnaplasty is a popular aesthetic surgery procedures and the vast majority of patients are delighted with their result and increased self confidence.

I have two rules of Cosmetic Surgery

1. - If in doubt – don’t!

2.- Always talk to real experts.

In other words, be sure that you want to undergo surgery for your own reasons and talk to people who really know about the surgery, that is other patients or an experienced Plastic Surgeon. Many think they know all about Pinnaplasty but in reality don’t and are likely to give you inaccurate and misleading information. This surgery changes many lives for the better but on rare occasions can have the opposite effect, so make sure you are an expert yourself before you decide. Everyone you know loves you whatever your ears are like, it’s how you feel about yourself that matters!

How Many Pinnaplasties does Mr Levick perform?

Most Pinnaplasties are now carried out in childhood but in accordance with the National Healthcare Commision guidelines, the annual audit figures of the Priory Hospital show that in the last five years (2004-2008) Mr Levick has carried out 36 (adult) pinnaplasties.