Otoplasty Perth

Ear pinning surgery:

All your questions answered about otoplasty
Otoplasty perth Forme Specialist Plastic Surgery

Otoplasty Perth

So what is otoplasty?

Do you feel self conscious about the size of years or perhaps the degree to which they protrude or ‘stick out?’ Occasionally there are other congenital differences with the ears, or an obvious asymmetry between the two. Otoplasty (or ear pinning) surgery may be an option if you (or your child) has issues with the ears. 

The main reasons people choose otoplasty include:

  • Problems with how your ears are shaped or look because of their structure or cartilage.
  • Feeling upset or bothered about the shape or size of your ears.

“When you visit us at Forme Specialist Plastic Surgery for a consultation we’ll discuss what you don’t like about your ears’ size, shape, and appearance and what we can do to change them. If you’ve had ear surgery before, we’ll talk about that too. We’ll talk about the surgery, the recovery, follow-up and risks.” 

Dr Jeremy Rawlins, Plastic Surgeon Perth 

No two otoplasties are the same, as the procedure is very much tailored to each patient. Most surgeries are a combination of skin excision, cartilage removal and reshaping, and suturing the cartilage and skin into a new position. Scars are hidden behind the ears and usually settle down very well. 

Are there different types of otoplasty?

Prominent ear correction (set-back otoplasty:
The most common type of ear surgery is a set-back otoplasty or ‘’pinning,’ – where there is actually no ‘pinning’ taking place (you’ll be pleased to know.) The ear is reshaped and adjusted so it sits closer to the head and the cartilage is reduced and reshaped using scoring techniques and sutures. This gives an overall better appearance to the ear.

Reduction otoplasty:
If your ears are too big we may suggest a type of surgery called reduction otoplasty. In this surgery we carefully remove excess skin and cartilage to make your upper part of the ear and /or earlobes smaller.

Yes,during otoplasty both ears will be operated on at the same time. 

If your ears are too big or stick out, otoplasty may well be an option for you. It is essential to have realistic expectations for outcomes post-surgery. Usually, patients are very happy with the results. Children can get this surgery starting at about the age of 7, but this can vary and is an area that is discussed in detail when you see us in the clinic. 

The best way to prepare is by staying in good shape, a sensible diet, and no smoking or vaping (or recreational drugs) – as these can all have a bad effect on wound healing. 

Otoplasty procedure

Ear surgery: step by step

Ear surgery is done as a day case procedure under local or general anaesthetic (patient choice). 

The surgery involves making incisions on the back part of the ear. Through that incision, we can reduce and reshape the cartilage. Once we’ve adjusted your ears to a more natural position closer to your head, we close the incisions – usually with absorbable sutures. We will then apply dressings and a bandage to your head. You’ll need to wear a bandage around your head for 1 week after the surgery. You’ll then attend our clinic where we will reduce the dressings, but you’ll need a headband to wear for a further week after that. Patients also need to wear a headband at night time and for contact sports for three months after their surgery.

Yes, but they will be hidden behind your ears. 

No, all the sutures are absorbable 

Recovery after ear surgery​

Some discomfort is common following otoplasty surgery, but simple pain relief is usually all that is needed. 

Regarding returning to your normal activities, you can usually go back to work or school after a few days (provided you can do so with the bandage in place). If not, you need to be off.

It’s rare, but bleeding and infection can occur. If bleeding does occur it may need surgical revision – but it is unusual.
Every surgery carries risks including:

  • Reactions to anaesthesia, which can range from mild allergic reactions to more severe effects depending on your overall health and history.
  • Scarring is a natural part of the healing process, but in some cases, scars may become noticeable, thick, or keloid, which can be a cosmetic concern. If this was to occur we offer treatments and solutions to help with these pathological scars
  • Changes in skin sensation, including numbness or increased sensitivity, can occur around the surgical site. These changes are often temporary but can be permanent in some cases.
  • Ongoing asymmetry. Whilst we try to get exact symmetry sometimes it is not completely possible.
  • Recurrence of the deformity. Very occasionally the prominence of the ear can recur after a few months / years. This is rare when we have used a cartilage scoring / reduction technique rather than just relying on a suturing technique.

Yes, there is a Medicare rebate available for otoplasty surgery for children under the age of 18. 

Ear Surgeons Perth

Why Forme Specialist Plastic Surgery in Perth?

We are dedicated to putting you at ease when considering surgery to your ears (or your child’s ears). We’ll use language that you understand, show you other patients’ ‘before and afters’ and talk you through the entire process from start to finish. 

“I have subspecialty interest and expertise in the management of prominent ears (and ear deformity). I have been performing these operations for over twenty years and have had the opportunity to teach many other surgeons in otoplasty.” 

Dr Jeremy Rawlins, Otoplasty Surgeon Perth 

Thinking about getting started with us? Request an appointment and see the difference yourself. 

Forme Specialist Plastic Surgery Perth Murdoch Square
Forme Specialist Plastic Surgery Perth
Forme Specialist Plastic Surgery

Tracey

Administration team leader

Tracey has over 20 years of experience in the health insurance industry and transitioned to hospital administration at The Mount Hospital, where she became the admissions team leader before moving up to administration manager. At Forme Specialist Plastic Surgery, she leads the administration team, focusing on exceptional customer service and ensuring the best patient experience through her empathetic approach. Outside of work, Tracey enjoys the outdoors and fresh air. 

Forme Specialist Plastic Surgery

Rebecca

Practice manager

Rebecca earned a Diploma of Management from Swinburne University of Technology and has 17 years of experience in medical administration, including 14 years in practice management. She manages daily operations at Forme Specialist Plastic Surgery, supporting the clinical team and focusing on excellent customer service. Rebecca is dedicated to the well-being of the community. Outside of work, she enjoys time with her family, baking, and crafting. 

Forme Specialist Plastic Surgery

Theresa

Registered nurse

Theresa trained as a nurse at Curtin University and spent 16 years at Royal Perth Hospital, working in various departments including acute general surgery, cardiothoracics, and cardiology. She also worked in an outpatient plastics clinic before moving into private practice. For 16 years, she served as a practice nurse for five plastic surgeons before joining Forme Specialist Plastic Surgery. Theresa is passionate about guiding patients through their surgical journeys, from pre-op to recovery. Outside of work, she enjoys family time, hiking, travelling, exploring new foods, and gardening. 

Forme Specialist Plastic Surgery

Mary

Registered nurse

Mary trained as a nurse at the University Hospital of Wales Cardiff and worked in various locations in Australia, including Melbourne and Townsville. She eventually settled in Perth, where she spent over 33 years at Royal Perth Hospital specialising in plastic surgery, burns, and major head and neck surgery. Now in private practice, Mary is dedicated to supporting patients through their post-operative recovery, finding it immensely rewarding. Outside work, she’s an avid bushwalker, enjoys family time, and loves travelling. 

Shahriar Raj Zamman Forme Specialist Plastic Surgery

Dr Shahriar Raj Zaman

MBBS FRAC (Plast)

Dr Shahriar Raj Zaman, best known as Raj, is a fully qualified plastic and reconstructive surgeon trained in Australia and internationally. He earned his MBBS from the University of Western Australia in 2009 and has undergone extensive training in plastic surgery, neurosurgery, and general surgery. 

Raj is certified by the Australian Plastic Surgery board, having completed his FRACS examination in June 2022. His surgical expertise is broad, with special interests in hand surgery, melanoma and skin cancer, complex microsurgical reconstructions, and aesthetic breast and body contouring surgery. He has developed his skills globally, including in South Korea under renowned microsurgeons and in Sydney with leading aesthetic surgeons.

Dr Zaman is known for his warm, personalised approach, making sure that all surgeries improve patients’ lives with excellent care and service. Outside of work, he enjoys family time, travel, and sports. He is a member of RACS, ASPS, ASAPS, and WASPS.

Website Dr. Zaman: drrajzamanprs.com