Our Summary

This research paper discusses a common birth defect in which the outer ear sticks out more than normal, affecting about 5% of people. Even though this doesn’t cause any physical harm, it can lead to psychological and emotional distress, especially in children. Therefore, a corrective surgery, known as otoplasty, is often done to prevent these issues.

In the study, two types of flaps of skin and tissue were lifted from the ear and repositioned. The new positions were fixed to the skin behind the ear and to the bone near the ear. The researchers then measured the distance and angle between the ear and the bone before the surgery and six months after the surgery. They also looked for any complications like stitches coming out, lumps forming, the ear going back to its original position, and any changes in sensitivity in the area behind the ear.

The study involved 22 patients who had this corrective surgery between January 2017 and January 2018. The results were positive with no patients experiencing any major complications like skin death, stitches coming out, bleeding, or infection after the surgery. Only one patient’s ear went back to its original position and needed another surgery.

The researchers concluded that this particular surgical technique not only reduces the chances of complications after surgery but also serves as an effective primary method for correcting protruding ears. A flap of tissue from the back of the ear has already been a reliable method for this type of correction.

FAQs

  1. What is a prominent ear deformity and how common is it?
  2. What is the purpose of a prophylactic surgery in the case of prominent ear deformities?
  3. What are the steps involved in the otoplasty procedure described in this study?
  4. What were the results of the study conducted between January 2017 and January 2018 on patients with bilateral prominent ear deformities?
  5. What benefits does the preparation of a medially based adipoperichondrial flap and a laterally based perichondrioadipodermal flap provide in an otoplasty procedure?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about otoplasty is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and optimal results. This may include keeping the surgical site clean and dry, avoiding activities that could put pressure on the ears, and attending follow-up appointments as scheduled. It is also important to be patient with the healing process, as it can take time for swelling and bruising to subside.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended otoplasty are those with prominent ear deformities, also known as protruding ears. This is a common congenital deformity affecting 5% of the general population. Children with prominent ear deformities may experience psychological distress, emotional trauma, and behavioral problems, making otoplasty a recommended procedure to correct the deformity and alleviate these concerns. Otoplasty may also be recommended for adults who are bothered by the appearance of their ears.

Timeline

Before otoplasty:

  • Patient consults with a plastic surgeon to discuss the procedure
  • Patient undergoes a physical examination and discusses their goals and expectations for the surgery
  • Patient receives pre-operative instructions and guidelines for the surgery
  • Surgery date is scheduled and patient may need to make arrangements for transportation and recovery

After otoplasty:

  • Patient undergoes the otoplasty surgery, which involves elevating flaps and fixing them to the mastoid bone periosteum
  • Patient is monitored for complications such as suture extrusion, granuloma formation, deformity recurrence, and postauricular area sensitivity
  • Patient may experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising post-surgery
  • Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor healing and assess the results of the surgery
  • Patient may require a revision surgery if there is unilateral recurrence or dissatisfaction with the results

Overall, otoplasty can provide a permanent solution to correct prominent ear deformities and improve the patient’s self-confidence and quality of life.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with otoplasty surgery?
  2. What is the recovery process like after otoplasty surgery?
  3. How long will it take for me to see the final results of the surgery?
  4. Will the results of otoplasty be permanent?
  5. Are there any non-surgical alternatives to otoplasty that I should consider?
  6. How many otoplasty surgeries have you performed before, and what is your success rate?
  7. Can you show me before and after photos of previous otoplasty patients?
  8. Will I need to wear any special bandages or garments after the surgery?
  9. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery?
  10. How much pain or discomfort should I expect during the recovery period?

Reference

Authors: Ersen B. Journal: Ann Plast Surg. 2019 Jul;83(1):7-14. doi: 10.1097/SAP.0000000000001866. PMID: 31135506