Will my ears go back to protruding after earfold removal? (Photo)

Question

I have had the earfold procedure, the metal clips are very visible which is a shame because I love the shape of my ears now, if I have them removed will they go back to protruding or will they look different altogether? Also is it unhealthy in anyway to your body to have the metal clips in your ear?

Justin C. Cohen, MD, FACS · Answer

The otoplasty technique you are describing is not standard here in the US. We typically use permanent sutures under the skin to create the normal appearing folds of the ear so nothing needs to be removed later. Discuss these questions with your surgeon to see what is possible.

Walid Sabbagh, FRCS (Plast) · Answer

Usually the earfold is almost invisible. The reason it can be slightly visible is if it is not totally flush with the cartilage which can occur on some occasions.
It is not possible to be certain to what degree your ear will move back after earfold removal. If the earfold has been in a short time (months) it is likely to move back. If it has been in longer (year or more) there is a possibility the cartilage may not spring fully back because of some of the scarring that would have occurred. Therefore some of the prominence may recurr but not to the degree you had before the earfold.
If there is recurrence of the prominence this would straightforward to fix with stitches.
With regard to the safety the earfold is made of metal alloy nitinol which is commonly use in the body such as heart stents so it is not unhealthy for the earfold to stay in.

Michael Mouzakis, MD, MSc · Answer

My opinion, by watching the photos, is that it is still very early for you to decide to take them out.Your body will create a thin capsule around the clips. It will take up to a year for this to happen and you will get an extra layer of cover. The visibility of the clips will improve.If you can’t wait, it’s best to remove them sooner than later. But once taken out, your cartilage will take its original shape.
Good luck

Waldemar Merck, MD · Answer

Your ears will go return to their original position after the removal of the metal clips. You should have the clips removed because it is not good that they are apparent under the skin. As you have thin skin, I recommend the even less invasive, gentle Merck Stitch Method afterwards.

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