Our Summary

This research paper discusses a new surgical technique for correcting a common ear deformity known as “protruding/prominent ears.” This condition affects about 5% of the Caucasian population. The new method is beneficial as it reduces the time spent in surgery, is easy to learn, and has a low rate of needing further corrective surgery.

The researchers studied 213 patients who needed this ear surgery from January 2020 to January 2021. Of these, 65% were women, 35% were men, and the average age was 21 years old. The youngest patient was 7. The technique corrects all the deformities causing protruding ears and can be performed at the same time as other ear surgeries. All surgeries were performed as outpatient procedures under local anesthesia and sedation.

The protocol for the surgeries was optimized for performance, with each surgery on both ears taking an average of 45 minutes. Further corrective surgery was only needed in 2% of cases. The most common issue was asymmetry in the upper part of the ears. The complication rate was about 7.5%, with a few cases of hematoma, mild infection, altered ear sensitivity, keloid scar formation, asymmetry, and irregularities in ear cartilage. Patient satisfaction was measured using a specific index, with positive results.

The conclusion of the study is that this new technique is a good alternative to reduce the surgery time for this type of ear correction. It can be performed with other ear surgeries, is easy to learn, and has a low rate of needing further surgery.

FAQs

  1. What is the new surgical technique for correcting protruding/prominent ears?
  2. What are the benefits of this new surgical technique?
  3. What was the patient satisfaction rate and how was it measured in this study?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about otoplasty is to carefully follow all post-operative care instructions provided by the surgeon. This may include keeping the surgical site clean, avoiding strenuous activities, wearing a protective headband as directed, and attending follow-up appointments. Following these instructions can help ensure a successful recovery and optimal results from the surgery.

Suitable For

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

Candidates for otoplasty may include:

  1. Children and adolescents: Otoplasty is often recommended for children around the age of 5 or 6, as this is when the ears have reached their full size and are more easily molded. Early intervention can help prevent teasing and bullying in school.

  2. Adults: Adults who have been living with protruding ears and are unhappy with their appearance may also be good candidates for otoplasty. It is never too late to undergo this procedure and improve self-confidence.

  3. Patients with asymmetrical ears: Otoplasty can also be recommended for individuals with asymmetrical ears, where one ear sticks out more than the other. This surgery can help create a more balanced and harmonious look.

  4. Patients with ear deformities: Otoplasty can also be performed to correct other ear deformities, such as cupped ears, lop ears, or shell ears. These conditions can be corrected through reshaping and repositioning of the ear cartilage.

Overall, otoplasty is a safe and effective procedure for patients looking to improve the appearance of their ears. It is important for individuals considering otoplasty to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon to discuss their goals and expectations for the surgery.

Timeline

Before otoplasty:

  1. Patient consults with a plastic surgeon to discuss the procedure and determine if they are a candidate for otoplasty.
  2. Patient undergoes a physical examination and discusses their medical history with the surgeon.
  3. Surgical date is scheduled, and pre-operative instructions are given to the patient.
  4. On the day of surgery, the patient arrives at the surgical facility and is prepared for the procedure.

After otoplasty:

  1. Patient wakes up from surgery and is monitored for a period of time in the recovery room.
  2. Post-operative care instructions are given to the patient, including information on pain management and wound care.
  3. Patient may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the days following surgery.
  4. Follow-up appointments are scheduled with the surgeon to monitor healing and address any concerns.
  5. Over time, swelling and bruising subside, and the final results of the otoplasty become apparent.
  6. Patient experiences improved self-confidence and satisfaction with the appearance of their ears.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the risks and potential complications associated with otoplasty surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery period after otoplasty surgery and what can I expect during this time?
  3. What kind of results can I realistically expect from otoplasty surgery?
  4. Are there any non-surgical alternatives to otoplasty that I should consider?
  5. How many otoplasty surgeries have you performed and what is your success rate?
  6. How will my ears look immediately after surgery, and how long will it take for the final results to be visible?
  7. Will there be any scarring after otoplasty surgery, and if so, how noticeable will it be?
  8. What kind of post-operative care will be required after otoplasty surgery?
  9. How long do the results of otoplasty surgery typically last?
  10. Are there any potential long-term risks or complications associated with otoplasty surgery that I should be aware of?

Reference

Authors: Assis MS, Miranda LS. Journal: BMC Surg. 2022 May 14;22(1):182. doi: 10.1186/s12893-022-01587-y. PMID: 35568829