Otoplasty CostThe price of ear pinning surgery in the UK and what it covers

Medically reviewed: Last reviewed by Mr Reza Nassab, FRCS Plast —

Otoplasty (ear pinning) with Mr Reza Nassab costs from £5,000 when performed under local anaesthetic. The price includes the surgeon, the procedure room or theatre, dressings and routine follow-up, while the £150 consultation is charged separately. A personal written quote is given after Mr Nassab has examined your ears and agreed a plan with you.

Price: Otoplasty under local anaesthetic from £5,000 · Consultation £150, charged separately · Full price list

The price of ear pinning

Otoplasty under local anaesthetic is priced from £5,000. Most adult ear pinning can be carried out comfortably with local anaesthetic, which avoids the costs and recovery associated with a general anaesthetic. The figure is a package for the operation rather than a list of separate charges, and it is confirmed in writing after your consultation. ‘From’ reflects that some ears need more complex reshaping, or that a different anaesthetic may be preferred, which can alter the quote. Other procedure prices are listed on the prices page.

What your quote includes

  • Surgeon’s fee: planning the correction and performing surgery on one or both ears.
  • Anaesthetic: the local anaesthetic, or the anaesthetist’s fee if sedation or general anaesthetic is agreed.
  • Hospital and theatre: use of the operating facility, nursing care and equipment.
  • Dressings and headband: the head bandage applied after surgery and guidance on the soft headband worn afterwards.
  • Routine follow-up: dressing removal, wound checks and review appointments while the ears settle.

Your written quote will set out exactly what is covered so there are no surprises.

The consultation is separate

The consultation fee is £150 and is always charged separately. During this appointment Mr Nassab examines the shape of each ear, the depth of the bowl of the ear (the concha), the fold of the antihelix and the position of the earlobes, and discusses what you would like to change. You will see where the scar will lie, hear about recovery and risks, and have a chance to ask questions. There is no pressure to book, and a follow-up appointment is encouraged before deciding.

Factors that affect the cost

  • One ear or both: some people have only one prominent ear, although both are often treated to achieve balance.
  • Complexity: a deep concha, a very flat antihelix, earlobe prominence or asymmetry may require additional techniques.
  • Type of anaesthetic: local anaesthetic is used for most adults; sedation or general anaesthetic increases the price.
  • Revision surgery: correcting a previous otoplasty is more complex and is quoted individually.
  • Additional ear procedures: earlobe repair (from £850 or £1,250) or earlobe reduction can sometimes be combined.

Finance options

If you would prefer to spread the cost, finance may be available through Chrysalis Finance. Reza Nassab Ltd is a credit broker, not a lender, and any agreement is subject to the lender’s status and affordability checks. Consider the full repayment amount carefully before committing, and remember that deposits and booking terms will be explained in writing.

Why cheaper otoplasty can cost more

Ear pinning is sometimes advertised at low prices, especially as part of packages abroad. These may not include follow-up, dressing changes or treatment if a haematoma or infection develops, and returning to the operating surgeon may be impractical. Early problems after otoplasty, such as a collection of blood under the skin, need prompt assessment by the team who know your surgery. The ear cartilage can also be permanently damaged if infection is not managed quickly, which is why local aftercare matters.

Is otoplasty right for you?

Otoplasty suits adults who are bothered by ears that stick out, are in good health and have realistic expectations. It aims to set the ears closer to the head and create a more natural fold, not to make both ears identical, because the two ears naturally differ. Cosmetic ear surgery at this practice is for adults aged 18 and over.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does ear pinning cost in the UK?

With Mr Nassab, otoplasty under local anaesthetic is from £5,000. The exact figure is confirmed after consultation.

Does the price cover both ears?

Your quote will state whether one or both ears are being treated. Many patients have both ears corrected for balance.

Is the consultation included?

No. The £150 consultation fee is charged separately from the surgical price.

Is otoplasty available on the NHS?

NHS provision for cosmetic ear surgery in adults is very limited and depends on local funding policies. Your GP can advise on eligibility in your area.

Is it possible to pay in instalments?

Finance may be available through Chrysalis Finance, subject to status. Reza Nassab Ltd is a credit broker, not a lender.

Why is local anaesthetic usually recommended?

For most adults, ear pinning under local anaesthetic is comfortable, avoids the after-effects of a general anaesthetic and allows you to go home soon after surgery. It also keeps the overall cost lower.

Mr Reza Nassab — Consultant Plastic Surgeon

Written & Medically Reviewed by

Mr Reza Nassab

FRCS (Plast) GMC Specialist Register — Plastic Surgery RCS England Certificate in Cosmetic Surgery MBA MSc

Mr Reza Nassab is an award-winning Consultant Plastic Surgeon on the GMC Specialist Register in Plastic Surgery, and holds the Royal College of Surgeons of England Certification in Cosmetic Surgery. He practises at CLNQ Deansgate Hospital in Manchester; Knutsford, Cheshire; Dubai and London, and is a member of BAPRAS and BAAPS. Mr Nassab has published original research in PRS, Aesthetic Surgery Journal, and JPRAS and lectures internationally on advanced surgical techniques.