How likely is it for ears to go back to normal position after otoplasty?

Question

How likely is it for ears to return to normal after an otoplasty procedure including removal of some conchal cartilage and usage of permanent sutures to pin the ears back? How long is a headband to be worn after surgery?

David C. Pearson, MD · Answer

Properly done, it's very unlikely that the ears would return to their pre-op prominence after otoplasty. The results are meant to be permanent. As for wearing the headband, while we used to recommend two weeks of use, several studies published in the medical literature over the last decade have shown that headband use for more than 24 hours is unnecessary. Thus, I've changed my protocol and only recommend the headband for a day. In the several years since I made that change I, too, have seen no difference in outcome and the patients are much happier to avoid wearing a headband.All the best,--David C. Pearson, M.D.Pearson Facial Plastic Surgery

Manish H. Shah, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello Marie1317,Thanks for your question.Depending on technique of otoplasty performed, there could be up to a 30% recurrence rate.Cartilage bending vs. cartilage scoring/cutting maneuvers have different success rates in permanently altering ear shape.In my practice, patients wear headbands for 3 weeks, but you should follow your surgeon's protocols.Take care,Dr. Shah

Vasdev Rai, MD · Answer

It is unlikely for ears to go back after otoplasty.  However it can happen.  You should follow your own surgeons protocol about use of head bands.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

It's unlikely, but possible that  one or both ears may drift outward slightly after a rhinoplasty procedure It is very surgeon and procedure specific, and it also depends on the strength of the cartilages which can override the permanent sutures that are in place. We ask patients to wear a headband at night for approximately 2 weeks after the procedure.

John B. Lazor, MD, MBA, FACS · Answer

The results of an otoplasty depend upon the technique used and the experience of the surgeon. With cartilage excision and permanent suture placement (Mustarde technique), the position of the ears should change minimally. Ear protection should be worn continuously for one week after surgery and six weeks at bedtime

Matthew D. Johnson, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Unfortunately, recurrences can happen.  The rates of recurrence vary due to several factors, including technique used in surgery.  Permanent sutures provided improved stability for healing the ear in the new position.  After surgery, a dressing is often worn over the ears and head initially, followed by a headband or compression band over the ears for ~4-6 weeks.  The exact amounts of time for headband use are likely to vary among surgeons.

How likely is it for ears to go back to normal position after otoplasty?

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