Can earlobes be pinned back during otoplasty surgery? (Photo)

Question

I am booked for a bilateral surgery in a few weeks time and have spoken to my doctor about the procedure. I am worried that my earlobes will still protrude after the surgery although he has said they won't, but I cant see how removing cartilage from the ear will pull my earlobes in. Does this sort of surgery normally involve bringing the earlobes in and if so how?

Stephen Weber MD, FACS · Answer

Yes. The lobes can and should be pinned back along with the ear itself during otoplasty. This error can often occur due to an inexperienced surgeon performing otoplasty. A single suture can be placed to pin back the cartilage in the ear lobe or a small excision of soft tissue performed behind the earlobe to help create a natural contour for the entire ear. I hope this information is helpful for you.Stephen Weber MD, FACSDenver Facial Plastic Surgeon

David Gilpin, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Yes, the earlobe will be pinned back in addition to rest of the ear during your surgery.  An experienced otoplasty surgeon will and should be able to do this.  In general, the ears are pinned back by removing a small amount of cartilage (a conchal set-back), and sutures are placed to recreate the natural fold in the ear (anti-helical fold).  Finally, the earlobes will be set back as well with a suture.  Be sure your surgeon is experienced in this surgery, and be sure to take a look at before and after pictures.  I hope this helps, and answers your concerns!

Toby Mayer, MD · Answer

Earlobes are pulled back in otoplasty as well as creating a anti helical fold and removal of concha. See an experienced surgeon.

Michael Sundine, MD, FACS · Answer

The goal of an otoplasty procedure is for a harmonious improvement of the projection and shape of the ear.  This includes the earlobe.  The earlobe can easily be set back at the same time as the rest of the otoplasty procedure.

David A. F. Ellis, MD · Answer

there are 3 components to otoplasty: antihelical fold tightening, conchal set back, and earlobe protrusion. To correct the last, a suture is used to pull the earlobes in line with the new position of the ear.Ask your surgeon and make an appointment

Can earlobes be pinned back during otoplasty surgery? (Photo)

Answers (6)

Answer: Earlobes and otoplasty

Answer: Earlobes and otoplasty

Answer: Ear lobe protruding after otoplasty

Answer: Ear lobe protruding after otoplasty

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Can earlobes be pinned back during otoplasty surgery? (Photo)

Answers (6)

Answer: Earlobes and otoplasty

Answer: Earlobes and otoplasty

Answer: Ear lobe protruding after otoplasty

Answer: Ear lobe protruding after otoplasty

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Ear Surgery

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.