Compare AHPRA-registered surgeons offering otoplasty in Australia. Read Google reviews, see typical AUD pricing and check qualifications before you decide.
Otoplasty, commonly known as ear pinning or ear reshaping surgery, is a cosmetic procedure designed to correct prominent or protruding ears. This surgical technique helps to reposition the ears closer to the head, creating a more harmonious and balanced facial appearance. It is often sought by individuals, both children and adults, who feel self-conscious about the projection of their ears.
While often associated with children who may experience teasing, otoplasty is also a viable option for adults seeking aesthetic improvement. The procedure can address concerns such as overly large ears, uneven ear size, or ears that stick out significantly from the side of the head. The goal is to achieve a natural-looking result that enhances overall facial symmetry without creating an "operated" look.
A common misconception is that otoplasty can improve hearing; however, its purpose is purely cosmetic. The surgery focuses on altering the cartilage within the ear to change its shape and position. Goals and expectations should be discussed with the surgeon before deciding.
CostDoc's 136 patient reports put the median out-of-pocket cost of otoplasty at $5,294, with the middle half paying $4,625 to $7,500 and a full range of $4,500 to $15,276. These are patient-reported out-of-pocket costs, not specialist quotes, and specialist plastic surgeons' fees often run higher. Medicare's item 45659 covers correction of a congenital ear deformity only for patients under 18, where the ear lacks an antihelical fold and/or has an enlarged scapha or concha and photographs are documented. Its schedule fee is $623.95 (75% benefit $468.00), which covers the surgeon's fee only, so hospital and anaesthetist costs remain. Adults pay the full cost.
Following otoplasty, a soft head bandage is applied for approximately 1-2 weeks to protect the ears and aid in healing. During this time, it is crucial to keep the bandage dry and avoid any pressure on the ears. Most patients experience mild discomfort, swelling, and bruising, which can be managed with prescribed pain medication. Strenuous activities should be avoided for at least 4-6 weeks. A head-band or soft bandage may need to be worn at night for several weeks after the initial bandage is removed to maintain the new ear position during sleep. Most swelling subsides within a few weeks, with full healing taking several months.
As with any surgical procedure, otoplasty carries potential risks, including infection, bleeding, adverse reaction to anaesthesia, and changes in skin sensation. There is also a risk of asymmetry or recurrence of prominence, which may require revision surgery. Other possible complications include a haematoma (a collection of blood) and visible or thickened scarring. It's essential to discuss all potential risks and benefits thoroughly with your surgeon before proceeding with the surgery.
CostDoc's 136 patient reports give a median patient-reported out-of-pocket cost of $5,294, with the middle half paying $4,625 to $7,500 and a full range of $4,500 to $15,276. Specialist plastic surgeons' fees often run higher, so get an itemised written quote.
Only in a narrow case. Item 45659 applies to patients under 18 with a congenital deformity where the antihelical fold is absent and/or the scapha or concha is enlarged, with photographs on file. The schedule fee is $623.95 and the rebate is 75% ($468.00), which covers the surgeon only.
Cosmetic ear surgery for adults is not covered by Medicare, so the full cost is out of pocket. CostDoc's middle-half range for all patients is $4,625 to $7,500.
Most adults return to desk work in about a week and children to school in one to two weeks, wearing a headband for several weeks. Follow your surgeon's written instructions on sport and swimming.
CostDoc's otoplasty figures are national rather than broken down by city, so they cannot show whether one city is cheaper. Fees vary between surgeons, hospitals and anaesthetists, so compare itemised written quotes.
Otoplasty can be performed once the ear cartilage is sufficiently developed, typically from around 5 or 6 years of age. This allows for stable results and addresses concerns before significant social impact.
This page is general information for prospective patients researching otoplasty in Australia. It is not personal medical advice. Clinical timing, eligibility, risks and outcomes vary: discuss your specific case with an AHPRA-registered practitioner at consultation.