How many sutures (or strips) are typically used in an Otoplasty with the Mustarde Technique?

We typically place three Mustarde sutures with clear 4-0 Nylon to recreate an antihelical fold, and two to three conchal set back sutures to reduce a deep conchal bowl, in each ear when necessary.Wishing you well moving forward.Dr Joseph

Like you correctly noted, the Mustarde technique uses sutures to recreate the antihelical fold.  Typically, permanent sutures are used to perform this portion of the procedure.  If the ear popped back, it could be that he used a monofilament suture like a Prolene that happened to slip or "pop".  Some surgeons perfer a braided permanent suture like Mersilene to perform this portion of the suture.  In my mind, there would be less "slippage" with the braided suture, but potentially a slightly higher extrusion rate. There are pluses and minuses.  If the surgeon is only able to do one stitch to recreate the antihelical fold, you just may have a shorter fold and one will have to hold.

There are several variations of otoplasty available to us.  Each surgeon performs the procedure in the way that he has had most success in his expereince. Do you believe that there is anyone, other than maybe yourself, more interested in obtaining a good outcome than your own surgeon?Please use this information when consulting with your Board Certified Plastic Surgeon in person.

The number of sutures is dependent on the size of the ear and the anatomical reasons causing the ear to protrude. This can only be decided on by the surgeon that knows your ears and from experience knows how many sutures he needs to make with the method he uses.