Our Summary

This research paper is a review of current studies on a type of ear surgery called otoplasty. The particular focus is on a method called “cartilage-sparing” otoplasty, where the cartilage of the ear is not disturbed during surgery. This method has been associated with fewer complications such as skin death, irregularities in the cartilage, blood clots, and infections. However, improvements are needed to reduce the chances of the ear returning to its pre-surgery shape and the appearance of stitches on the skin.

The authors looked at research articles from two major databases, PubMed and EMBASE, and ended up with 20 articles for their final analysis. The studies varied in size and design, with sample sizes ranging from 17 to 565 patients. Some studies compared the cartilage-sparing technique with methods that do involve disturbing the cartilage.

The review found that more recent studies suggest the cartilage-sparing method gives better results compared to techniques that disturb the cartilage. However, it also highlighted that every patient is unique, so a personalized approach is often needed which might require a combination of techniques for the best cosmetic result.

The review also points out that the quality of the studies on this topic is generally low, according to a scale for judging the quality of medical evidence. So, there’s definitely a need for more high-quality research in this area. In the meantime, the authors hope that their review will help surgeons who perform otoplasty to make informed decisions about the best approach for their patients.

FAQs

  1. What is “cartilage-sparing” otoplasty and what are its potential benefits?
  2. What are the current areas of improvement for the “cartilage-sparing” otoplasty method?
  3. What conclusions were drawn from the review of studies on “cartilage-sparing” otoplasty?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about otoplasty is to carefully follow post-operative care instructions, including keeping the surgical site clean and avoiding activities that could put pressure on the ears. This can help ensure optimal healing and minimize the risk of complications. Additionally, patients should communicate openly with their surgeon about their desired outcomes and any concerns they may have throughout the process.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for otoplasty are those with prominent ears, also known as “bat ears” or “Dumbo ears.” This condition can be a source of embarrassment and self-consciousness for individuals, especially children. Otoplasty can help improve the shape, position, or proportion of the ear, creating a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing appearance.

Otoplasty is commonly performed on children between the ages of 4 and 14, as the ears are fully developed by this age. However, adults who are unhappy with the appearance of their ears can also benefit from otoplasty. Patients should be in good overall health and have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the surgery.

Overall, otoplasty is a safe and effective procedure for patients who are bothered by the appearance of their ears. However, it is important for patients to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to determine if they are a suitable candidate for otoplasty and to discuss their goals and expectations for the surgery.

Timeline

Before otoplasty, a patient typically consults with a plastic surgeon to discuss their goals and expectations for the surgery. The surgeon will assess the patient’s ears and discuss the potential risks and benefits of the procedure. Once the decision to proceed with otoplasty is made, the patient will undergo the surgery, which typically takes about 1-2 hours under local or general anesthesia. The surgeon will make incisions behind the ears to access the cartilage and reshape it as needed. After the surgery, the patient will have bandages around their head to protect the ears and may experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising.

After otoplasty, the patient will need to follow post-operative care instructions provided by the surgeon. This may include wearing a headband or bandages to support the ears during the initial healing period. The patient should avoid activities that could put pressure on the ears, such as sleeping on their side. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor the healing process and remove any stitches. Full recovery can take a few weeks, during which time the patient should avoid strenuous activities and protect their ears from trauma. Over time, the ears will settle into their new shape and the final results of the surgery will become apparent.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with otoplasty, particularly the cartilage-sparing technique?
  2. How long is the recovery period after otoplasty, and what can I expect in terms of pain and discomfort?
  3. Will I need to wear any special garments or bandages after the surgery, and for how long?
  4. How long do the results of otoplasty typically last, and are there any factors that could affect the long-term outcome?
  5. Can you show me before and after photos of previous otoplasty patients you have treated using the cartilage-sparing technique?
  6. What are your qualifications and experience in performing otoplasty, specifically with the cartilage-sparing method?
  7. Are there any specific pre-operative or post-operative instructions I need to follow to ensure the best outcome?
  8. How much will otoplasty cost, and does insurance typically cover any part of the procedure?
  9. What should I do if I have concerns or questions during the recovery process after otoplasty?
  10. Are there any alternative treatments or techniques for correcting prominent ears that I should consider before deciding on otoplasty?

Reference

Authors: Ferzli G, Sukato D, Araslanova R, Romo Iii T. Journal: Facial Plast Surg Aesthet Med. 2020 May 28. doi: 10.1089/fpsam.2020.0123. Online ahead of print. PMID: 32466669