Earlobe Restoration for a Patient with Pixie Ear Preference

Abstract

Introduction: The pixie ear is usually considered an undesired outcome following cervicofacial rhytidectomy procedures, and several techniques for prevention and correction have been previously described in the literature. However, on occasion a patient may prefer the aesthetics of the pixie ear and request it be restored or created. We present the case of a 68-year-old woman who desired restoration of bilateral pixie ears. Materials and Methods: Described is a simple technique that can be rapidly performed in the office under local anesthesia to achieve the pixie ear look. Results: A favorable aesthetic outcome recreating pixie ears was accomplished to the satisfaction of the patient without complication. Discussion: It is imperative to discuss the desired final cosmetic appearance of the ears in preoperative consultation for cervicofacial rhytidectomy. Although a pixie ear is not the typically desired aesthetic result, some patients may prefer it to the more traditional free-hanging earlobe.