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Pinnaplasty in children Q&As

Published by Bupa's health information team, November 2008.

Answers to questions about pinnaplasty in children

This section contains answers to common questions about this topic. Questions have been suggested by health professionals, website feedback and requests via email.


Will the operation affect my child's hairline?

No, the operation should not affect your child's hairline.

Explanation

Surgical cuts are made behind your child's ears to remove some cartilage and skin during the operation. The ears are then pinned back using stitches. Your child will have some scarring behind the ears and this should fade over a few months. The operation should not affect your child's hairline behind his or her ears.

Further information

  • The British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS)
    020 7405 2234
    www.baaps.org.uk
  • The British Association of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS)
    020 7831 5161
    www.bapras.org.uk

Sources

  • Setting back prominent ears. British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS). www.baaps.org.uk, accessed 8 February 2008
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How can I know if pinnaplasty is right for my child?

Your surgeon's job is to tell you what surgery can do for your child. Only you can decide with your child whether the operation is right for your child.

Explanation

You shouldn't rush into a decision to have cosmetic surgery. It's important to talk to your child and wait until your child recognises the problem and wants his or her ears corrected.

Discuss your options with your GP, who may be able to recommend a reputable surgeon or give advice about how to choose which hospital to be treated in. The British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons provides a list of qualified cosmetic surgeons.

Before opting for an ear-pinning operation, discuss with your surgeon what you or your child is hoping to gain from the operation and the result you can realistically expect. There are risks associated with the procedure, such as bleeding and infection. You need to consider these carefully when making your decision.

Further information

  • The British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS)
    020 7405 2234
    www.baaps.org.uk
  • The British Association of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS)
    020 7831 5161
    www.bapras.org.uk

Sources

  • Setting back prominent ears. British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS). www.baaps.org.uk, accessed 8 February 2008
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How much does pinnaplasty operation cost?

Cosmetic surgery is not available on the NHS and the cost of pinnaplasty can vary from £1,500 to £3,000.

Explanation

The package usually covers all the costs of your treatment, such as hospital charges, surgeon's and anaesthetist's fees, and follow-up consultation. The costs vary from surgeon to surgeon and clinic to clinic. You will usually be given a fixed price after your initial consultation with a cosmetic surgeon.

You should never base your decision on costs alone when deciding where to be treated. You should always consider the quality of your surgeon and the quality of the hospital or clinic when making your decision.

Further information

  • The British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS)
    020 7405 2234
    www.baaps.org.uk
  • The British Association of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS)
    020 7831 5161
    www.bapras.org.uk

Sources

  • Setting back prominent ears. British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS). www.baaps.org.uk, accessed 8 February 2008
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This information was published by Bupa's health information team and is based on reputable sources of medical evidence. It has been peer reviewed by Bupa doctors. The content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.

Publication date: November 2008

 

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