Otoplasty Brisbane (Prominent Ear Surgery)
Dr. Konrat operates in Brisbane and Sydney.
Otoplasty (Ear Pinning Surgery)
Otoplasty, also known as ear pinning surgery, is a cosmetic procedure designed to reshape and reposition the ears for a more balanced appearance. It can help reduce the prominence of ears that stick out or correct uneven ear shapes.
At Brisbane Cosmetic Clinic, led by Dr Georgina Konrat, Otoplasty aims to adjust the ear cartilage so it sits closer to the side of the head. This procedure may assist with:
- Symmetry where one ear differs noticeably from the other
- Adjust the size or shape of large or elongated earlobes
- Repair torn or stretched earlobes caused by injury or earrings
Dr Konrat performs Otoplasty surgery for adults only. If you’re seeking ear pinning surgery for a child, your GP can refer you to a suitably qualified medical practitioner who performs paediatric Otoplasty.
All About Otoplasty | Ear Pinning Surgery
Otoplasty, sometimes called ear pinning surgery, is a procedure performed to alter prominent or uneven ears. It may create a balanced appearance between the ears, head, and face.
For some people, prominent ears can make it difficult to wear hats, helmets, or protective headgear comfortably. Others may simply wish to alter the appearance of their ears.
Why do ears protrude?
In most cases, the position of the ears relates to how the cartilage folds during development. When this fold does not form completely, the ears sit further from the head and appear more prominent. This can affect one or both ears.
By around six years of age, the ear has reached approximately 85 percent of its adult size, which means surgery can safely be performed from this age onward if required. Dr Konrat, however, performs Otoplasty for adults only. For children, your GP can refer you to a suitably qualified practitioner who performs paediatric ear surgery.
How Otoplasty is performed
Otoplasty may be performed under general anaesthetic or under sedation with long-acting local anaesthetic. The procedure usually takes about two hours.
An incision is made behind the ear, in the natural crease between the ear and the scalp, so that any scar is discreet. Permanent sutures are placed within the cartilage to create a natural-looking fold and to reposition the ear closer to the head. In some cases, a small amount of cartilage may be removed to alter the shape.
After surgery
A protective head dressing is worn for the first few days to support healing and maintain the new position of the ears. After this, a lighter headband is usually worn at night for about twelve weeks.
Patients should avoid sports or activities where the ears could be bumped, bruised, or pulled during the healing period. Dr Konrat and her team at Brisbane Cosmetic Clinic will provide detailed aftercare instructions tailored to your situation.
Making an informed decision
It’s essential that you’re fully informed before proceeding with any cosmetic surgery. The information on this website has been written and reviewed by Dr Georgina Konrat to provide an educational overview of Otoplasty, but it should not replace a personal consultation.
You should never make a decision based solely on reading information online. A consultation with Dr Konrat allows for individual assessment, discussion of your goals, and a clear understanding of the possible risks and outcomes specific to ear surgery.
Patient Journey for Otoplasty (Ear Pinning Surgery)
Pre-Operation
Before your Otoplasty, you will meet with Dr Georgina Konrat for a detailed consultation to assess your preferences and plan your procedure. A full medical history will be taken and a thorough examination conducted to ensure you are medically suitable for surgery. Dr Konrat will explain the procedure, discuss potential risks and recovery, and answer any questions you may have.
Preparation guidelines:
Avoid aspirin and anti-inflammatory medications for one week before and one week after your surgery, unless otherwise directed. These can thin the blood and increase the risk of bruising or bleeding.
Avoid alcohol for two weeks before and after your procedure.
Stop smoking at least six weeks before and six weeks after surgery. Smoking reduces blood flow to the skin and can delay healing.
Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you for the first 24 hours after surgery.
Inform Dr Konrat if you have any medical conditions, allergies, or sensitivities to medications, dressings, or anaesthetics.
Photographs and measurements will be taken before and after surgery to document your progress.
Risks and Possible Complications of Otoplasty (Ear Pinning Surgery)
All surgical procedures carry some degree of risk. Although complications following Otoplasty (ear pinning surgery) are uncommon, it’s important to understand the potential risks before making an informed decision about your procedure.
Risks Specific to Otoplasty
While most patients recover without difficulty, the following issues may occasionally occur:
Overcorrection – In rare cases, the ears may be positioned too close to the head. Revision surgery may be required to restore an anatomically mindful outcome, shape or position.
Keloid or hypertrophic scarring – Some individuals may form thicker or more prominent scars than expected.
Infection – Taking prescribed antibiotics and following all aftercare instructions helps reduce this risk.
Bruising, bleeding, or haematoma – A localised collection of blood under the skin can cause swelling or discomfort. Early contact with your treating doctor helps prevent complications or long-term changes in shape.
Asymmetry – No two ears are perfectly symmetrical, and perfect symmetry cannot be guaranteed. Every effort is made to achieve improved balance and proportion.
Suture loosening or tearing – If internal stitches loosen or break through the cartilage, the ear may gradually return to its original position. Careful aftercare, particularly avoiding pressure, trauma, or folding of the ears, is essential for optimal healing.
General Risks of Surgery
General surgical and anaesthetic risks still apply to patients undergoing an otoplasty.
Wound Healing
All internal and external wounds require time to heal. Sutures and surgical dressings are used to support the tissue during recovery. Following post-operative instructions helps minimise complications.
Infection
Despite sterile precautions, infection can occasionally occur during or after surgery. Antibiotics are routinely prescribed to reduce this risk.
Deep Venous Thrombosis (DVT)
Although uncommon in Otoplasty, blood clots can form in the legs during recovery. Early mobilisation, leg movement, and deep breathing exercises help reduce this risk.
Risks of Anaesthesia
Otoplasty may be performed under local anaesthetic with sedation or general anaesthetic, depending on the case.
Local anaesthetic: Rarely, patients may experience an allergic or adverse reaction to the anaesthetic or medications used during surgery.
General anaesthetic: Modern anaesthesia is very safe, though minor side effects such as nausea or sore throat can occasionally occur.
For more information regarding risks and complications related to surgery please visit our risks and complications page.
Realistic Expectations
It’s important to have realistic expectations that focus on improvement rather than perfection. Complications or less-than-ideal results, while uncommon, can occur and may require further surgery.
If you have a history of emotional distress or mental health conditions, please discuss this openly with Dr Georgina Konrat during your consultation. Understanding your background allows her to provide the most appropriate care and support.
Important Information
This information is intended as a general guide to Otoplasty surgery at Brisbane Cosmetic Clinic.
Specific details – including your surgical plan, risks, and expected recovery – will be discussed personally with Dr Konrat during your consultation.
Book a consultation online with Dr Georgina Konrat please find a time and date that suit you best
Not sure where to start?
Do you live in Brisbane, Sydney, the Gold Coast, or “out of town?” and still have questions about Otoplasty (ear pinning) surgery?
Get in Touch.
Dr Georgina Konrat and her team are here to help you become fully informed about Abdominoplasty surgery and empower you with the knowledge you need to make important decisions about surgery. We welcome enquiries from patients in Brisbane, Sydney, the Gold Coast, and Australia wide.
Call us on 07 3391 5710 or request a callback using the form below.
Frequently Asked Questions — Otoplasty (Ear Pinning Surgery)
Otoplasty, also known as ear pinning surgery, is a cosmetic procedure that reshapes or repositions the ears to reduce their prominence or alter symmetry. It can help create a more balanced appearance between the ears, head, and face.
Otoplasty may be suitable for adults who wish to alter the size, shape or position of their ears, and who are in good general health. Dr Georgina Konrat performs Otoplasty for adults only. If you are seeking this procedure for a child, your GP can refer you to a qualified practitioner who performs paediatric ear surgery.
The procedure usually takes around one to two hours, depending on the complexity and whether both ears are being treated.
Most patients describe mild to moderate discomfort for the first few days after surgery. Pain is usually well controlled with prescription medication, and discomfort tends to improve significantly within a week.
Otoplasty can be performed under local anaesthetic with sedation or general anaesthetic. The choice depends on individual preference, medical suitability, and the extent of the surgery. Dr Konrat will discuss both options with you during your consultation.
The incision is made in the natural crease behind the ear, which means any scarring is discreet once healed. Most patients find that the scars fade and are barely noticeable over time.
You can expect to return to work or normal daily activities within about seven days. However, a light protective headband should be worn at night for around 12 weeks to support healing. Strenuous exercise or contact sports should be avoided during this period.
Results are visible immediately after surgery, though swelling and mild bruising can temporarily affect appearance. The final shape and position of the ears become more noticeable as healing progresses over the following weeks.
Yes – however, even if only one ear appears prominent, both ears are often operated on to ensure a balanced and symmetrical appearance.
As with all surgical procedures, Otoplasty carries potential risks including infection, bleeding, asymmetry, scarring, or suture complications. These will be discussed in detail during your consultation to ensure you’re fully informed.
Ear pinning performed purely for cosmetic reasons is not covered by Medicare or private health funds. In some cases where the surgery is required to correct a significant deformity or congenital condition, partial rebates may apply. As Dr Konrat is a cosmetic doctor, private health insurance and Medicare rebates are not applicable.
Results are generally long-lasting. The reshaped cartilage and internal sutures are designed to hold the new ear position permanently, although natural ageing and tissue changes can subtly alter appearance over time.
At Brisbane Cosmetic Clinic, Otoplasty is performed by Dr Georgina Konrat, an experienced cosmetic doctor with over 20 years in the field. The clinic focuses on patient safety, ethical care, and clear communication so patients can make informed decisions about their treatment.