Which otoplasty technique is best to treat my prominent ears? (Photo)

Question

From research on this topic, i learned that 2 methods are used for prominent ears (stitch method,removal of cartilage method and combination of both). I went to see a surgeon and he said that he is going to stitch my ears, but I don't know if that's the right technique for my ears or if that's the only technique he does. I want advice from doctors on this site. In my opinion i think i have excess cartilage and removal would be better. I would like natural looking ears and long lasting results.

Stephen Weber MD, FACS · Answer

This is a great question and you will likely receive answers recommending a variety of approaches. In my own experience, cartilage cutting can create unnatural contours. Cartilage can be shaved from the back of the bowl of the ear but I would not recommend making incisions completely through the cartilage as this can create sharp, surgical appearing contour to the ear that look bad. In the vast majority of cases permanent sutures are used to shape the upper part of the ear as well as set back or "pin" the lower part of the ear. I hope this information is helpful for you.Stephen Weber MD, FACSDenver Facial Plastic Surgeon

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

It is always best to pick the best surgeon rather than try to pick the best technique. That is their job to explain why the procedure picked is best for you in their hands. The most critical decision to be made in achieving the best plastic surgical result is picking the most experienced and talented, that is the best, plastic surgeon possible. Too often, patients choose a physician based on a catchy ad, the brand name of a technique, the basis of one or two before and after photos, or their web site’s search engine ranking. These criteria will not find the most experienced and talented plastic surgeon. See the below link on how to find the best Otoplasty (ear) surgeon.

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

Based on your photos, your ears appear prominent from deep conchal bowls. We have had great success placing conchal setback sutures, usually three per ear, without removing conchal cartilage. Depending on your examination, you may also benefit from Mustarde sutures to bring the tops of your ears closer to your head.Wishing you well.Dr. Joseph

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

Otoplasty is rewarding procedure
for both the surgeon and the patient.  There are 2 common techniques to
improve the shape of the ears:1) Cartilage sparing (suture technique)2) Cartilage cutting Both of these techniques can create great results.
 There are pros and cons for each method, but I choose to use the
cartilage sparing or permanent suture technique. In reviewing your pictures, it appears you have lost the fold in the top of the ear and the "bowl" part of the ear is large.  For these reasons, I would recommend 2 types of sutures to improve your ears.  1 suture would recreate the fold in the top of the ear and the other suture would bring the ears closer to the head.  The technical term for these sutures are Mustarde and Furnas sutures.I hope this helps.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question and pictures. You are correct in that there are many different ways to perform otoplasty surgery. Probably more important than the specific technique utilized will be careful selection of your plastic surgeon. Personally, the most common techniques I use include conchal setbacks utilizing permanent sutures (no cartilage excision) as well as "reconstruction" of the anti-helical folds. You may find the attached link, helpful to you as you learn more. Best wishes.

Which otoplasty technique is best to treat my prominent ears? (Photo)

Answers (5)