Approximately 1-2% of the population in the United Kingdom have prominent or ‘bat ears’. Often the shape and size of the ears is inherited. Prominent ears may lack a normal fold of cartilage underneath the skin. Children with prominent ears are sometimes teased and this can lead to bullying and a loss of self-confidence.
Pinnaplasty or otoplasty is an operation which adjusts 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. The operation is usually carried out under general anaesthestic, however, it can be done under local anaesthesia in suitable adults.
