No recurrence in otoplasty: Is that possible?

Abstract

Otoplasty or correction of prominent ears, is one of most commonly performed surgeries in plastic surgery both in children and adults. Until nowadays, there have been more than 150 techniques described, but all with certain percentage of recurrence which varies from just a few up to 24.4%. The authors present an otoplasty technique, a combination of Mustardé's original procedure with other techniques, which they have been using successfully in their everyday surgical practice for the last 9 years. The technique is based on posterior antihelical and conchal approach. The study included 102 patients (60 males and 42 females) operated on between 1999 and 2008. The age varied between 6 and 49 years. Each procedure was tailored to the aberrant anatomy which was analysed after examination. Indications and the operative procedure are described in step-by-step detail accompanied by drawings and photos taken during the surgery. All patients had bilateral ear deformity. In all cases was performed a posterior antihelical approach. The conchal reduction was done only when necessary and also through the same incision. The follow-up was from 1 to 5 years. There were no recurrent cases. A few minor complications were presented. Postoperative care, complications and advantages compared to other techniques are discussed extensively. All patients showed a high satisfaction rate with the final result and there was no necessity for further surgeries. The technique described in this paper is easy to reproduce even for young surgeons.