Otoplasty (Ear Pinning)
with Dr Georgina Konrat
Dr Georgina Konrat (MBBS, FACCSM) performs otoplasty in Sydney from her Bondi Junction clinic, with consultation for both children and adults considering ear reshaping.
Key Facts
Otoplasty is a surgical procedure to reposition or reshape prominent ears. It can be discussed for children and adults. Dr Georgina Konrat performs otoplasty in Sydney from her Bondi Junction clinic, with consultation covering candidacy, risks, likely recovery, and whether the procedure is appropriate for the individual patient.
Procedure Duration
1–2 Hours
Recovery
1 Week
Anaesthesia
Local or General
Reviewed by Dr Georgina Konrat (MBBS, FACCSM) — Last updated March 2026. AHPRA Registration: MED0001407863.
A Surgical Procedure for
Ear Reshaping
Otoplasty is a surgical procedure to reposition or reshape the outer ear (pinna). The goal is to make the ears less prominent while maintaining their natural appearance.
The procedure involves making a small incision behind the ear, through which the cartilage can be reshaped, folded, or secured with permanent stitches. Because the incision is behind the ear, the resulting scar is generally well hidden.
During consultation, Dr Konrat will assess your ear anatomy, discuss expectations and determine whether otoplasty is suitable for you. She will recommend the most appropriate technique and may advise against surgery if it is not in your interest.
For patients researching otoplasty in Sydney, the main practical issues are usually age, anaesthesia, time away from school or work, and fee structure. Those points are covered during consultation and in the related pages linked below.
Gallery
View the Otoplasty (Ear Pinning) gallery
The gallery contains clinical before and after photographs intended for persons aged 18 years and over.
Further Reading
Related guides for Otoplasty (Ear Pinning)
Read more about recovery, costs, consultation planning, and procedure-specific considerations relevant to this page.
Risks & Complications
All surgical procedures carry risks. Potential risks and complications of Otoplasty (Ear Pinning) are outlined below and will also be discussed in detail during consultation.
For broader information about surgical risk, visit the General Risks and Complications page.
Reasons Patients Consider
Otoplasty (Ear Pinning)
Prominent or Protruding Ears
Ears that stick out markedly from the head, often due to underdeveloped ear folds or a deeper-than-average ear bowl.
Asymmetrical Ears
Differences in ear size or positioning that may be a concern for some patients.
Birth-Related Irregularities
Variations in ear shape present from birth that affect the appearance of the ears.
Children & Teenagers
Many parents choose otoplasty for younger patients because cartilage is more pliable, and surgical changes can be achieved earlier.
Adults
Adults of any age can undergo ear reshaping if they are healthy and do not smoke.
Personal Preference
Patients who wish to change the position of their ears for personal reasons.
How Otoplasty
Is Performed
Most procedures are done under either local anaesthetic with sedation or general anaesthetic, depending on age and preference.
Incision
A small incision is made in the crease behind the ear. Because of this placement, the resulting scar is generally well hidden.
Cartilage Reshaping
Through the incision, the cartilage can be reshaped, folded, or secured with permanent stitches. The aim is to bring the ears closer to the head or to restore folds in the cartilage that may not have developed fully.
Duration
The surgery usually takes one to two hours for both ears. Otoplasty only affects the outer ear and has no impact on hearing.
Otoplasty for
All Ages
Otoplasty can be performed on both children and adults:
- Children and teenagers — many parents choose otoplasty for younger patients because cartilage is more pliable, and surgical changes can be achieved earlier. Children's ears reach near adult size by around age five to six.
- Adults — adults of any age can undergo ear reshaping if they are healthy and do not smoke. The surgical steps are similar to those in children, although adult cartilage can be firmer.
- Realistic expectations — it is important to understand that otoplasty alters ear shape and position but cannot achieve perfect symmetry.
In children, general anaesthesia is often used so they are fully asleep during the procedure. In adults, otoplasty may be done under local anaesthesia with sedation or under general anaesthesia, depending on the case and preference.
Planning Otoplasty in
Sydney
Patients searching for otoplasty in Sydney usually want to know three things early: whether the procedure can be discussed for a child or an adult, how long recovery takes, and what the fee planning looks like.
At consultation, Dr Konrat reviews the position of the ears, the cartilage shape, whether one or both ears are involved, and the likely anaesthesia requirements. For children, the discussion also includes time away from school and how the headband will be managed after surgery.
If you are comparing procedures, the otoplasty cost Sydney guide explains what usually affects pricing. If you are comparing age-related considerations, read otoplasty for children vs adults. If you are mainly focused on healing time, the otoplasty recovery guide gives a more detailed timeline.
Your Otoplasty (Ear Pinning)
Process
Consultation & Referral
A GP referral is required. Two consultations (at least one in person) are needed before surgery. Mandatory 7-day cooling-off period applies.
Pre-Operative Preparation
Dr Konrat will assess your ear anatomy, discuss expectations and goals, explain the procedure and its risks, and provide a personalised fee estimate.
The Day of Surgery
Performed under local or general anaesthesia in an accredited day surgery. Takes 1–2 hours for both ears. Most patients are discharged the same day.
Recovery & Follow-Up
Wear a supportive bandage for about one week. Most patients return to school or work within one week. Avoid contact sports for 3–4 weeks.
What to Expect
After Surgery
Ear pinning surgery generally has a shorter recovery compared with other procedures. You may experience mild discomfort or swelling for a few days.
Rest & Pain Control
Take prescribed pain medication and rest. A bulky bandage is placed around the head to protect the ears in their new position.
Bandage Removal
The bulky bandage is usually removed after about a week. A lighter headband is then worn day and night. Most patients return to school or work.
Lighter Headband
Continue wearing the headband at night for several more weeks. Keep incisions clean and dry. Avoid sleeping on the side.
Return to Full Activity
Strenuous exercise, swimming, and contact sports can usually resume after three to four weeks, as advised by Dr Konrat.
Important: Contact the clinic immediately if you experience excessive bleeding, severe pain, or signs of infection. Detailed aftercare instructions will be provided before and after your procedure.
Preparing for Your Consultation
- Bring your GP referral letter
- Prepare a list of medications, supplements, or medical conditions
- Write down any questions you would like to ask Dr Konrat
- Wear comfortable clothing to your appointment
How Much Does Otoplasty (Ear Pinning)
Cost?
Costs vary depending on the complexity of the procedure, the facility used, and anaesthesia fees. A personalised fee estimate will be provided after your consultation with Dr Konrat.
Dr Georgina Konrat is a cosmetic doctor and no Medicare rebates are applicable through her practice. All fees will be discussed openly during consultation so there are no unexpected costs.
Ready to discuss your options?
Personalised fee estimate after consultation
Have questions? Contact our clinic or call 02 9188 1949.
Before & After
Gallery
View before and after photographs from Dr Konrat's practice. All photographs are shared with patient consent and are intended for educational purposes only.
Photographs are intended for persons aged 18 years and over. Individual results vary. All surgical procedures carry risks. AHPRA: MED0001407863.
Frequently Asked Questions
The information on this page is general in nature and does not replace medical advice. All surgical procedures carry risks, and outcomes vary between individuals. A consultation with Dr Georgina Konrat is required to determine whether this procedure is appropriate for you.
Other
Procedures
Ready to Book a Consultation?
The first step is a confidential consultation where Dr Konrat will discuss your concerns, explain the procedure in detail, and answer any questions you may have.
A GP referral is required for surgical procedures. Please note the mandatory 7-day cooling off period applies to all cosmetic surgery consultations.