Our Summary

This paper discusses abnormalities in the ear that are present from birth, which can affect up to 20% of newborns. These flaws can vary from minor differences to the complete absence of an external ear. Some of the most common deformities include “lop ear,” where a part of the ear is not properly folded, and “cup ear,” where a part of the ear is unusually deep due to excess cartilage. There are also other less common malformations. Treating these issues can range from simply reshaping the baby’s ear during the first few weeks of life to complex surgical procedures using cartilage, tissue flaps, and skin grafts. The paper also mentions that ear surgery (otoplasty) can be used to fix ear deformities caused by injuries, like “cauliflower ear.”

The paper discusses different techniques developed over the years to correct these deformities. One method from 1963 uses specific sutures (stitches) to create or refine a fold in the ear, improving its appearance. Another method from 1968 uses sutures to reduce excessive prominence of the ear. More complex deformities, like microtia (underdeveloped ear), are addressed by multi-stage surgical procedures, which have been documented and improved upon over the years. The paper acknowledges that there are many different techniques to address ear deformities, both those present from birth and those acquired later in life.

FAQs

  1. What are some common ear deformities present from birth?
  2. What methods are used to correct ear deformities?
  3. What is otoplasty and what types of ear deformities can it address?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about otoplasty is to carefully follow all pre-operative and post-operative instructions provided by the surgeon. This may include avoiding certain medications that can increase bleeding, keeping the incision site clean and dry, and wearing any prescribed bandages or compression garments as directed. Following these instructions can help ensure a successful outcome and minimize the risk of complications.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for otoplasty include individuals with birth defects such as microtia or other ear deformities, as well as those with acquired deformities due to injuries or trauma. Otoplasty can also be recommended for individuals who are unhappy with the appearance of their ears and wish to improve their overall facial aesthetics. It is important for patients to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon to determine if they are a suitable candidate for otoplasty and to discuss the best treatment options for their specific concerns.

Timeline

Before otoplasty, a patient will typically consult with a plastic surgeon to discuss their concerns and goals for the procedure. The surgeon will evaluate the patient’s ears and overall health to determine if they are a good candidate for otoplasty. If the patient decides to move forward with the procedure, they will schedule a surgery date and receive pre-operative instructions.

During otoplasty surgery, the patient will be under local or general anesthesia, depending on the extent of the procedure. The surgeon will make incisions behind the ear to access the cartilage and reshape it as needed. Sutures may be used to secure the cartilage in its new position and close the incisions. The procedure typically takes about 1-2 hours to complete.

After otoplasty, the patient will experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the ears. Pain medication and antibiotics may be prescribed to manage these symptoms. The patient will need to wear a headband or bandages around the ears for a few days to support the healing process. It is important for the patient to follow the post-operative care instructions provided by the surgeon to ensure proper healing.

In the following weeks and months, the patient will see gradual improvement in the appearance of their ears as swelling subsides and the ears settle into their new position. It is important for the patient to attend follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor their progress and address any concerns. Overall, the patient can expect to see final results of otoplasty within 3-6 months after surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with otoplasty surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery period after otoplasty surgery?
  3. Will there be any scarring after the surgery, and if so, how noticeable will it be?
  4. What kind of results can I expect from otoplasty surgery?
  5. How many otoplasty surgeries have you performed, and what is your success rate?
  6. Will I need to wear any special bandages or garments after the surgery?
  7. How long will the results of the otoplasty surgery last?
  8. Are there any non-surgical alternatives to otoplasty that I should consider?
  9. How much pain or discomfort can I expect during the recovery period?
  10. What kind of follow-up care will be required after the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Kennedy KL, Hohman MH, Katrib Z. Journal: 2025 Feb 3. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan–. PMID: 30855904