Treatment face
CO2 Laser Resurfacing
- Natural, long-lasting results that enhance facial harmony
- Boost confidence
- Alter size, shape or position of the ears
- Address prominent ears, asymmetry or irregularities
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Ear reshaping surgery, also known as otoplasty, is a procedure designed to alter the shape, position or proportion of the ears by reshaping or repositioning the underlying cartilage. It can be performed in both adults and children and is commonly used to address concerns such as prominent ears or asymmetry.
At Paul Wilson Aesthetics, otoplasty is performed by Mr Paul Wilson, a surgeon with extensive experience in facial aesthetic surgery. He combines advanced techniques with a considered aesthetic eye to develop a personalised treatment plan tailored to each patient’s needs.
Results
Before & After Gallery
About
What is otoplasty?
Otoplasty, also known as ear reshaping, is a procedure performed to improve the position, shape or projection of the ears. Prominent ears, sometimes referred to as “bat ears”, are usually the result of natural variations in ear anatomy, such as a poorly defined antihelical fold, an enlarged conchal bowl, or a combination of both.
Although prominent ears do not affect hearing, they can influence confidence and self-esteem, particularly during childhood and adolescence. Otoplasty addresses these structural characteristics by reshaping or repositioning the ear cartilage to achieve a more balanced appearance that sits naturally in proportion with the rest of the face.
benefits
What are the benefits of ear reshaping?
Ear reshaping surgery may offer a number of benefits, including:
- Improved balance and symmetry of the ears in relation to the face
- Reduced prominence of the ears for a more proportionate appearance
- Natural-looking results tailored to individual ear anatomy
- Long-lasting results
- Increased confidence
candidates
Who is a good candidate for otoplasty?
Ear reshaping surgery may be suitable for individuals who:
- Are in good overall health
- Are non-smokers, or willing to stop smoking before and after surgery
- Have realistic expectations about results and recovery
- Are concerned about prominent, protruding or asymmetrical ears
- Feel that the appearance of their ears affects their confidence
- Have ears that are fully developed (typically from around age five for children)
What to expect
What to expect during otoplasty?
Consultation
During your consultation, Mr Wilson will assess the structure, position and asymmetry of your ears. He will discuss your concerns, review your medical history and explore your aesthetic goals to determine whether ear reshaping surgery is suitable for you.
This consultation is your opportunity to ask questions, explore your options and ensure you feel fully informed and confident before deciding whether to proceed.
Anaesthesia and Procedure Time
Ear reshaping surgery typically takes around 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on the extent of correction required.
For adult patients, the procedure is most commonly performed under local anaesthesia with sedation to ensure comfort throughout surgery. In children, otoplasty is usually carried out under general anaesthesia. Mr Wilson will confirm the expected duration of your procedure during your consultation.
Surgery
During otoplasty, incisions are placed discreetly behind the ear to minimise visible scarring.
Depending on the ear’s anatomy, surgery may involve creating or refining the antihelical fold by reshaping or reinforcing the inner ear cartilage with sutures to achieve a natural curve.
In cases where the conchal bowl is overly prominent, a small amount of excess cartilage may be removed and the remaining cartilage repositioned closer to the head. Often, both the antihelical fold and the conchal bowl are addressed during the same procedure to achieve the desired result.
Closure
Mr Wilson carefully reshapes the ear cartilage and secures it in its new position with permanent clear nylon sutures. Once the desired correction has been achieved, the incisions are closed, and a protective bandage is applied to support healing.
Recovery
Recovery and results of ear reshaping
Recovery following ear reshaping surgery varies between individuals.
What to expect
After surgery, it is normal to experience mild swelling, bruising and tenderness around the ears. These effects are usually most noticeable during the first few days and typically settle within one to two weeks. A protective dressing or headband may be worn for several days to support healing and protect the ears while the tissues stabilise.
Initial results are often visible once the bandages are removed, revealing a more proportionate ear shape and position.
Activity and movement
Most patients can return to work and light daily activities within five to seven days. Strenuous exercise, heavy lifting and contact sports should be avoided for several weeks to reduce the risk of complications and protect the ears during healing. Your surgeon will advise when it is safe to gradually resume normal activities.
Follow-up care and long-term results
Follow-up appointments will be arranged to monitor healing and ensure recovery is progressing as expected. Final results are typically achieved within 6-12 weeks, once swelling has fully settled.
With proper care, otoplasty delivers long-lasting results, allowing patients to enjoy renewed confidence and satisfaction with their appearance.
Risks & complications
Risks and potential complications of otoplasty
As with any surgical procedure, otoplasty carries some risks and potential complications. These may include:
- Infection
- Bleeding or haematoma (blood collection under the skin)
- Delayed wound healing
- Swelling or fluid build-up (seroma)
- Temporary changes in sensation around the ear, including numbness or tingling
- Scarring or asymmetry
- Adverse reaction to anaesthesia
- Overcorrection or undercorrection
Your surgeon will discuss all potential risks during your consultation, ensuring you are fully informed before deciding to proceed.
The cost of otoplasty depends on the complexity of the procedure. Factors such as the extent of correction required and the type of anaesthesia used may also influence the overall cost.
Your surgeon will discuss all pricing details during your consultation, ensuring that you have a clear understanding of what is required before making any decisions.
Surgeon
Meet Mr Paul Wilson
Mr Paul Wilson is a Consultant Plastic Surgeon with more than 35 years of surgical experience and over 16 years as a Consultant Plastic Surgeon. He specialises in facial, breast and body aesthetic surgery, with a particular interest in rhinoplasty, facial rejuvenation and complex revision surgery.
In both his NHS and private practice, Mr Wilson is known for his patient-focused approach, careful surgical planning, and commitment to achieving balanced, natural-looking results tailored to each individual.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does otoplasty take?
Otoplasty typically takes 1.5 to 2.5 hours to complete, depending on the complexity of the correction required. The duration may vary based on whether one or both ears are being treated and the surgical techniques used. During your consultation, Mr Wilson will provide a tailored estimate based on your specific requirements.
When can I return to work after ear reshaping surgery?
Most patients can return to work or school within 7 days after otoplasty, depending on the type of work they do and their overall recovery process. For office-based or non-strenuous jobs, this timeline is typically sufficient. However, those with physically demanding jobs may require additional time to heal. Mr Wilson will assess your recovery during follow-up appointments and advise you when it is safe to resume your normal routine.
What is the expected downtime required after ear reshaping surgery?
The downtime after otoplasty is usually around one week. During this period, patients may experience swelling, bruising and mild discomfort around the ears. A supportive bandage or headband is often worn to protect the ears and maintain their new position. While light activities can be resumed within a few days, strenuous exercises and contact sports should be avoided for 4-6 weeks to ensure optimal healing.
When will follow-up appointments be scheduled after ear reshaping surgery?
The first follow-up appointment is usually scheduled within 7 days after surgery to remove any dressings and check the healing progress. Additional follow-ups may occur at 2 weeks, 6 weeks and 3 months, depending on your recovery and specific case. Mr Wilson and his team will monitor your healing and ensure you’re satisfied with the results, providing guidance throughout the recovery process.
Will I need to repeat ear reshaping (otoplasty) in the future?
In most cases, otoplasty results are permanent, and patients do not need to repeat the procedure. The cartilage in the ears is reshaped and secured during surgery, ensuring long-lasting improvements. However, significant trauma or injury to the ears could alter the results. Following post-operative care instructions and avoiding activities that may risk ear damage can help maintain the outcome. Mr Wilson will discuss these aspects during your consultation.
How long should I wear a headband after ear reshaping (otoplasty)?
Most patients are advised to wear a supportive headband for several days to one week after surgery to protect the ears and maintain their new position. In some cases, Mr Wilson may recommend continuing to wear the headband at night for an additional period to support healing. The exact duration will depend on your individual procedure and how your ears are healing.
How do I sleep after an otoplasty?
After otoplasty, patients are advised to sleep on their back with their head slightly elevated to minimise swelling and avoid pressure on the ears. Sleeping on your side should be avoided during the early stages of recovery as this can affect healing and cause discomfort. Using extra pillows or a travel pillow may help keep your head in a stable position while you sleep.
How long after an otoplasty can I exercise?
Light activities such as gentle walking can usually be resumed within a few days after surgery. However, strenuous exercise, heavy lifting and contact sports should be avoided for 4-6 weeks to reduce the risk of swelling, bleeding or injury to the ears. Mr Wilson will advise when it is safe to gradually return to exercise based on your recovery at follow-up appointments.
Schedule your consultation
Book a consultation with Paul Wilson Aesthetics
Patients choose Paul Wilson Aesthetics not only for the team’s surgical expertise, but also for their thoughtful, honest and patient-centred approach to aesthetic care. To get started, book a consultation where our team will discuss your concerns, outline your goals and determine if ear reshaping surgery is the right option for you.
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VASER liposuction or traditional liposuction? It’s a question we’re asked a lot.
Both can be effective options for removing unwanted fat and improving body shape, but they work in different ways. VASER uses ultrasound energy before the fat is removed and can allow for more detailed contouring. Traditional liposuction may be more suitable when larger areas or volumes need to be treated.
There isn’t one option that is right for everyone. Your anatomy, skin quality, treatment area and the result you’re hoping to achieve all need to be considered.
During your consultation, Mr Paul Wilson will talk you through the options and recommend the approach best suited to you.
📍 Northwood Hospital, Bristol | The London Welbeck Hospital
☎️ Office: 0117 332 1585
📱 Call or WhatsApp: 07414 163133
✉️ info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
#VASERLiposuction #Liposuction #Vaser #BodyContouring #PaulWilsonAesthetics
Preservation rhinoplasty is about refining the nose while preserving its natural character and key structures where appropriate.
This lovely patient is 29 years old and is now 18 months post surgery. Her result shows a smoother bridge and a more refined tip, creating a softer, more balanced profile while keeping everything in harmony with her face.
Most importantly, she’s delighted with her result.
Swipe to view the result from another angle and learn more about preservation rhinoplasty.
Every rhinoplasty is planned individually following consultation.
Images shared with the patient’s full consent.
📍 Northwood Hospital, Bristol | The London Welbeck Hospital
☎️ Office: 0117 332 1585
📱 Call or WhatsApp: 07414 163133
✉️ info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
#preservationrhinoplasty #rhinoplasty #rhinoplastybeforeandafter #paulwilsonaesthetics
Before and immediately after preservation rhinoplasty.
These operating-theatre photographs show the change in profile directly after surgery. The bridge has been carefully refined while maintaining a natural shape that remains in keeping with the rest of the face.
Preservation rhinoplasty uses techniques designed to retain as much of the nose’s natural structure as possible while making the planned changes to its shape.
At this stage, swelling is already present and will continue to change during recovery, so this should not be viewed as the final result.
As with any rhinoplasty, the surgical plan is tailored to the individual patient’s anatomy and the changes they would like to achieve.
Images shared with patient consent. Individual results will vary.
📍 Northwood Hospital, Bristol | The London Welbeck Hospital
☎️ Office: 0117 332 1585
📱 Call or WhatsApp: 07414 163133
✉️ info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
#PreservationRhinoplasty #Rhinoplasty #NoseSurgery #PaulWilsonAesthetics
A refreshed, natural result at six months.
This lovely 69-year-old patient came to see me hoping to improve the signs of ageing around her eyes, cheeks, jawline and neck, while still looking like herself.
She underwent a face and neck lift, upper and lower eyelid blepharoplasty, dermal fat grafting to the upper eyelids to improve hollowing, and silicone cheek implants to add support through the mid-face.
At her six-month review, she was delighted with the outcome, and I am very pleased with how naturally everything has settled.
Images shared with the patient’s full consent.
📍 Northwood Hospital, Bristol | The London Welbeck Hospital
☎️ Office: 0117 332 1585
📱 Call or WhatsApp: 07414 163133
✉️ info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
#FaceAndNeckLift #deepplanefacelift #Blepharoplasty #FacialRejuvenation #paulwilsonaesthetics
A change in volume, while still keeping the result in proportion.
Breast augmentation is about much more than simply choosing a size. Implant width, profile and projection are all considered alongside the patient’s existing breast tissue, chest width and personal preferences.
The aim for this patient was to add volume and upper pole fullness while creating a shape that complemented her frame.
Every patient is different, which is why every surgical plan is individual.
Images shared with patient consent.
📍 Northwood Hospital, Bristol | The London Welbeck Hospital
☎️ Office: 0117 332 1585
📱 Call or WhatsApp: 07414 163133
✉️ info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
#BreastAugmentation #BreastImplants #BreastSurgery #PaulWilsonAesthetics
Choosing to have surgery is a big decision, so feeling listened to and supported throughout the process really matters.
Thank you to this patient for taking the time to share such kind feedback about her body contouring experience with Paul and the team. It is always lovely to know that a patient felt informed, reassured and in safe hands from their first consultation onwards.
📍 Northwood Hospital, Bristol | The London Welbeck Hospital
☎️ Office: 0117 332 1585
📱 Call or WhatsApp: 07414 163133
✉️ info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
#BodyContouring #PatientReview #PatientExperience #PlasticSurgery #PaulWilsonAesthetics
Two different operations, planned to create one balanced result.
This lovely patient came to see me with significant developmental breast asymmetry and a tuberous breast appearance. It had understandably affected her confidence, particularly when choosing bras and swimwear.
Her aim was for both breasts to look and feel as similar as possible. As each breast required a different approach, the surgery was carefully planned to achieve a more balanced result.
The surgical plan:
◽ Left breast: subfascial augmentation using a 315cc Silimed silicone implant
◽ Right breast: augmentation and reduction mastopexy using a 225cc implant, with 375g of breast tissue removed
I always explain that improving breast shape means accepting scars. These will continue to settle with time.
At six months, I am very pleased with the balance we have achieved and, most importantly, she is delighted with her result.
Images shared with the patient’s kind permission. Individual results vary.
📍 Northwood Hospital, Bristol | The London Welbeck Hospital
☎️ Office: 0117 332 1585
📱 Call or WhatsApp: 07414 163133
✉️ info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
#BreastAsymmetry #BreastAsymmetryCorrection #TuberousBreast #BreastAugmentation #paulwilsonaesthetics
Made it to Northwood on two wheels this morning 🚴♂️
Most of the team here are quite used to seeing me arrive by bike. I cycle into work whenever I can, as it’s a great way to enjoy some fresh air, fit in a little exercise and start the day feeling energised.
Now for a quick change out of the Lycra and on with the working day!
#paulwilsonaesthetics #cycletowork
Only three appointments remaining.
Once these appointments have been filled, you can request to join our priority cancellation list.
Meet Consultant Plastic Surgeon Mr Paul Wilson at Northwood Hospital, Bristol, on Saturday 12th September.
These complimentary 15–20 minute introductory appointments offer an opportunity to meet Paul, discuss the surgery you are considering, ask initial questions and understand the next steps.
This is an introductory appointment rather than a full clinical consultation. Advance booking is essential.
To request one of the remaining appointments:
DM us
WhatsApp: 07414 163133
Office: 0117 332 1585
Email: info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
#PaulWilsonAesthetics #NorthwoodHospital #Bristol #AestheticSurgery #PlasticSurgery
A result worth revisiting.
Photographed just over two months following a deep plane facelift and neck lift, this result shows a fresher, more supported appearance without changing the patient’s character.
The surgery addressed the cheeks, early jowling and neck, creating a smoother transition through the lower face and jawline.
With the patient’s short hairstyle, the area around the ears is particularly visible, making the discreet appearance of the incisions an important part of this result.
The aim of facelift surgery is not to create a different face. It is to help the patient look refreshed while still looking like themselves.
What would you most like to know about deep plane facelift surgery?
Shared with patient consent.
📍 Northwood Hospital, Bristol | The London Welbeck Hospital
☎️ Office: 0117 332 1585
📱 Call or WhatsApp: 07414 163133
✉️ info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
#DeepPlaneFacelift #NeckLift #FaceliftResults #NaturalResults #PaulWilsonAesthetics
Considering aesthetic surgery and unsure where to begin?
Join us at Northwood Hospital, Bristol, on Saturday 12th September for a complimentary 15–20 minute introductory appointment with Consultant Plastic Surgeon Mr Paul Wilson.
With extensive experience across facial, breast and body surgery, Paul offers a considered and individual approach to every patient.
You are welcome to discuss procedures including:
• Rhinoplasty
• Facelift and facial surgery
• Facial implants
• Hairline lowering
• Breast surgery
• Abdominoplasty and body contouring
• VASER liposuction
• Arm and thigh lifts
This relaxed one-to-one conversation provides an opportunity to meet Paul, ask initial questions, discuss whether the procedure may be appropriate for you and understand the next steps in your surgical journey.
This is an introductory appointment rather than a full clinical consultation.
Appointments are available between 10am and 2pm. Advance booking is essential, and a limited number of appointments are available.
To request an appointment:
WhatsApp: 07414 163133
Office: 0117 332 1585
Email: info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
Or send us a DM.
Please include the procedure you are considering and whether you would prefer a morning or afternoon appointment.
#PaulWilsonAesthetics #NorthwoodHospital #Bristol #AestheticSurgery #PlasticSurgery
Choosing a surgeon for rhinoplasty involves more than considering the procedure itself. Experience, surgical approach, aftercare and the wider clinical team all form part of the decision.
Mr Wilson has more than 30 years of experience in facial surgery, including extensive experience in rhinoplasty. His practice has evolved from structural rhinoplasty to also incorporating preservation techniques, allowing the surgical plan to be adapted according to the patient’s anatomy and individual concerns.
A significant proportion of his rhinoplasty practice also involves secondary or revision surgery. These procedures are often more complex because the nasal structure may have already been altered by previous surgery, making careful assessment and detailed planning particularly important.
Patients undergoing surgery at Northwood Hospital are supported by an experienced surgical, anaesthetic and nursing team throughout their treatment journey. From the initial consultation and pre-operative assessment to surgery and long-term follow-up, the aim is to provide continuity of care within one clinical setting.
Ultimately, choosing a rhinoplasty surgeon is a personal decision. Patients should feel comfortable asking about experience, techniques, expected outcomes, limitations, risks and aftercare before deciding whether to proceed.
🏥 Paul Wilson Aesthetics
📍 Northwood Hospital, Bristol, UK
📞 0117 332 1585 | 07480 125 890
📧 info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
