Ear Pinning Surgery in Seoul: Set Prominent Ears Back
The short answer
Ear pinning surgery in Seoul sets prominent ears closer to the head by creating a missing cartilage fold, setting back a deep ear bowl, or both, through tiny punctures or a short incision behind the ear. It takes about 1 to 2 hours under local anesthesia or sedation and typically costs about ₩2,000,000 to ₩5,000,000. You wear a headband for a few weeks, mainly at night.
Key facts
- Anesthesia: local, sometimes with sedation
- Surgery time: about 1–2 hours
- Incision: tiny punctures or a short cut in the crease behind the ear
- Typical cost: about ₩2,000,000–₩5,000,000
- Headband: full-time about 1 week, then at night for several weeks
- Social downtime: about 1 week
Setting prominent ears back
Ears stick out for two main reasons. The antihelix, the curved fold just inside the rim, may not have formed fully, so the upper ear opens outward. Or the concha, the deep bowl beside the ear canal, is large and pushes the whole ear away from the head. Many people have both.
Ear pinning treats the position of the ear, not its size. There are three approaches. Cartilage reshaping uses permanent stitches to create the missing fold. Setback, also called repositioning, stitches the bowl toward the bone behind the ear. Most patients have both combined. When the cartilage is soft, stitches can be placed through tiny punctures behind the ear. When it is stiff, a short incision in the crease behind the ear lets the surgeon thin or score the cartilage first.
Most often chosen for
- Ears that stand out from the head
- An upper ear that lacks a natural fold
- Uneven ears where one sticks out more
- Adults who were self-conscious about their ears from childhood
Often combined with
Some patients combine it with earlobe repair or earlobe reduction during the same session.
The procedure, layer by layer
Small access
After marking the new fold and the intended distance from the head, the surgeon numbs the ear. For the stitch-only method, sutures are passed through small punctures to fold the cartilage. For the incisional method, a short cut behind the ear exposes the cartilage.
Where the incisions are made
Any incision lies in the crease between the ear and the head, where it is hidden from normal view. The front of the ear has no scar.
How the marks heal over 12 months
Puncture marks fade within weeks. A crease incision is pink at first and becomes a fine, hidden line within months. Rarely, a thick scar can form behind the ear, so ask your surgeon about this if you tend to scar.
Recovery timeline
| Time | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Days 1–7 | Bandage or headband full-time; mild ache and swelling |
| Day 7–10 | Stitches out (if incision); headband by day |
| Weeks 2–6 | Headband at night; avoid contact sports |
| Months 3–12 | Final shape and scar settle |
Is it right for you?
A good fit if you
- Have ears that stand out because of shape, not size.
- Can wear a headband at night for several weeks.
Another option may suit you better if
- Your ears are large overall; reduction techniques may be needed in addition. See otoplasty for the broader options.
- Your concern is the earlobe only.
Risks to discuss at your consultation
Ask about the ear returning partly forward (relapse), asymmetry, visible or palpable stitches, over-correction that looks pinned flat, infection and, rarely, a blood collection. Ask which technique suits your cartilage and how relapse is handled.
Ear pinning surgery cost in Seoul
Typical prices range from about ₩2,000,000 to ₩5,000,000 for both ears. Stitch-only methods are often at the lower end; incisional methods with cartilage work sit higher.
Ear pinning vs. otoplasty
Otoplasty is the umbrella term for any ear-shaping surgery, including reduction, reconstruction and earlobe work. Ear pinning is one type of otoplasty that focuses only on how far the ears stand out.
Planning your trip
Allow about 7 to 10 days in Seoul. Bring loose tops that do not need to be pulled over your head, a soft sports headband for nights and a travel pillow that does not press on the ears. Long hair can hide the headband during the day. Avoid swimming, saunas and helmets until your surgeon clears you, usually after a few weeks. If you wear glasses or earrings, ask when they can be worn again, as pressure on fresh cartilage can affect the result.
This guide is for general information and is not medical advice. Prices are typical ranges reported by Gangnam clinics in 2026 and vary by clinic, doctor and treatment plan; confirm directly with the clinic.
Patient questions
Frequently asked questions
Is ear pinning permanent?
It is designed to be, but some partial relapse is possible, especially with stitch-only methods in stiff cartilage.
Can adults have ear pinning?
Yes. Adult cartilage is firmer, so incisional techniques are used more often.
When can I fly home?
Usually after about 7 days, once the surgeon has checked the ears.
Does it hurt?
Local anesthesia keeps surgery comfortable. A mild ache for a few days is usual and controlled with medication.
Not sure which Gangnam clinic is right for you?
Tell us your goals, budget and travel dates. Our English-speaking coordinators compare doctor-led clinics and usually reply with free quotes within 24 hours.