Otoplasty: New Modification of the Mustardé Technique

Abstract

Background: One of the most established techniques formanagement of protruding ears is the Mustarde technique (1).Many modifications had been published for this technique;however, all these modifications started by retro-auricularincision. We modify the Mustarde technique using threeretroauricular microincisions to correct several deformitiesof the auricular cartilage in protruding ears.Patients and Methods: 46 patients (7 unilateral, 39 bilateral)(85 ears) who were candidates for this technique, theirage (25±2.8 years), 38 males, 8 females. The operation time,steps, follow-up sessions (2 weeks, 3, 6 and 18 months) datawas recorded. Pre-operative and post-operative (1, 18 months)photos were compared and analyzed by custom made computerprogram the evaluated the results.Results: 42 patients achieve a natural appearance. Extrusionof threads occurred in 8 ears. Asymmetrical ears werenoticed in 4 patients and recurrence in 11 patients. Thesepatients were revised by Mustarde technique with retroauricularincisions. None of the patients developed retroauricularscars.Conclusion: This versatile modif ication allows for betterasthenic results of otoplasty and minimizes complications ofskin incision unless cartilage and/or skin resection is needed.