Otoplasty in Milan: Ear Pinning and Earlobe Repair

Otoplasty is an aesthetic ear surgery aimed at correcting imperfections of the auricle, such as prominent ears (commonly known as protruding ears), damaged earlobes, or oversized ears—whether due to congenital conditions or acquired changes. At Image Regenerative Clinic in Milan, the procedure is performed with precision and full respect for the natural proportions of the face. Minimally invasive incisions are strategically hidden within the anatomical contours of the ear. It is a technical procedure that requires a surgeon with deep knowledge of ear anatomy: the aim is a symmetrical, natural result, with a quick recovery for most patients.

The procedure is performed at our Milan clinic. The first step is a surgical consultation, where the surgeon assesses the ear cartilage and lobes and recommends the most suitable technique.

Treatment Overview

• Appropriate for: correcting protruding ears, elongated or damaged lobes, improving profile harmony
• Age: from 16 years old
• Procedure details: 20-40 minutes, with a 4-24 hour stay at the clinic. Local anesthesia with sedation, or mild sedation.
• Sessions: single session, follow-up visit on the second day after surgery.
• Precautions: wear a night band for 15 days after surgery. Possible suspension of certain medications in agreement with the surgeon, avoid smoking for 2 weeks.
• Location: Milan.

"In otoplasty, a particularly effective and non-traumatic technique has been developed and presented at an international congress - the Pink Needle Otoplastic - which allows bandages removal and hair washing after just 48 hours."

Prof. Carlo Tremolada

Who Is Otoplasty For?

• Prominent or protruding ears ("bat ears"): the ear sits too far from the head. This is the most common reason for ear pinning surgery.
• Oversized or asymmetric ears, congenital or acquired.
• Elongated, torn or damaged earlobes, often caused by heavy earrings or a tear.
• Trauma and congenital malformations of the auricle.

Causes and non-surgical options are covered in our guide to otoplasty and protruding ears.

Youth Otoplasty

Youth otoplasty is a procedure that can significantly impact not only physical appearance but also self-esteem and psychological well-being. Prominent ears, commonly called "protruding ears," often cause insecurities and can become a source of social discomfort, especially during school age or adolescence, when social pressure and criticism can deeply affect self-perception.

This procedure, also indicated for younger patients when ears have completed most of their development, allows correction of aesthetic imperfections through precise cartilage remodeling. Otoplasty is performed from 16 years of age and remains an option in adulthood, after assessment by the surgeon.

Choosing the Technique: Surgical Otoplasty, Pink Needle or Lipogems® for the Earlobes

Each otoplasty is personalized to the patient's anatomy and goals. The technique is chosen during the consultation:

The Pink Needle Otoplastic

The Pink Needle is a minimally invasive technique used in some otoplasty procedures to improve ear remodeling without traditional surgical incisions. It allows the ear cartilage to be repositioned and shaped with precision.

Thanks to Pink Needle, it's possible to correct small imperfections or moderate ear prominence without the scars of a traditional incision. The technique is particularly appreciated for its less invasive approach, quick recovery times, and ability to achieve natural results. However, it's not indicated for all patients and requires accurate evaluation to establish feasibility based on specific anatomical needs.

Earlobe Repair and Rejuvenation

Over time, ear lobes can lose elasticity and volume, appearing larger, elongated, or damaged, often due to earring weight or tears. This aging affects facial harmony, giving a less youthful appearance.

Treatment with Lipogems® uses the patient's own fat, processed with mechanical forces only, to restore volume and give the lobes a fuller, natural appearance. For particularly elongated or damaged lobes, Lipogems can be combined with remodeling surgery to reduce excess tissue and restore natural shape.

These treatments are performed under local anesthesia, with short recovery times.

The Regenerative Approach in Otoplasty

At Image Regenerative Clinic, otoplasty is enhanced with regenerative medicine principles under the guidance of Professor Carlo Tremolada, the inventor of Lipogems® technology. Our technique combines traditional surgical precision with the patient's microfragmented adipose tissue, where indicated.

Microfragmented fat is used in regenerative medicine because it contains cells and factors that support the tissues. In aesthetic medicine its use is an evolving field: this is why we offer it only where it has a specific indication, such as volume loss in the earlobes.

Otoplasty Procedure and Recovery

It all starts with the consultation: the surgeon assesses the cartilage, symmetry and earlobes, and explains which technique is indicated and what result is realistic. After surgery the first check-up is on the second day, and most patients resume daily activities within a few days, following the precautions listed above.

Like any surgery, otoplasty carries risks, such as swelling and bruising, infection, residual asymmetry or partial return of the prominence. The surgeon discusses them in detail, case by case, during the consultation.

Why Choose Image Regenerative Clinic for Otoplasty

• Multiple techniques: from traditional surgery to Pink Needle and Lipogems® for the earlobes, to match every need.
• Anatomical precision: in-depth knowledge of ear anatomy, aiming for a symmetrical result.
• Holistic approach: we consider overall facial harmony to achieve balanced and natural results.
• Regenerative medicine expertise: our team works under the guidance of Professor Tremolada, the inventor of Lipogems®.