Conchal bowl reduction - is it possible on my ears? (photos)

Question

My conchal bowls are very round and deep. It looks weird and makes my ears stick out. Is there a way to fix this and how would it be done? What is the exact procedure called? Thanks

Anthony Corrado, DO · Answer

Conchal bowl reduction is a routinely performed technique utilized in otoplasty surgery.  The Davis procedure involves removal of a "kidney bean" shaped piece of cartilage, which serves to reduce the height of the bowl, allowing better positioning of the ear.  This procedure is usually combined with the Mustarde procedure, which is utilized to create a defined antihelical fold.  Together both techniques create an excellent looking result.  Good Luck!

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. Based on your
photograph, you are a great candidate for an otoplasty. 
Make sure you specifically look at before and after pictures of
real patients who have had this surgery performed by your surgeon and evaluate
their results.  The most important aspect is to find a surgeon you are
comfortable with. I recommend that you seek consultation with a qualified
board-certified plastic surgeon who can evaluate you in person.
Best wishes and good luck.
Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Louis W. Apostolakis, MD · Answer

Hello,Your photos don't quite show everything that I need to see.  Specifically, it appears that you have a poorly developed anti-helix as well as a prominent conchal bowl, but the anti-helix isn't quite in view.  At any rate, correcting both the anti-helix and conchal bowl are a routine part of an otoplasty and I see nothing here to prevent you from having a great result when done properly. The conchal bowl needs to have a some cartilage removed or you will almost certainly have a spring-back affect.  The anti-helix on the other hand should not have any removal, only reshaping.  Removal or making cuts into the anti-helix will result in a deformed ear.Regards,Dr. A

Waldemar Merck, MD · Answer

A conchal bowl reduction is indicated. These days, a reduction in the size and depth of the concha is achieved either by the excision of a strip of cartilage, or without excision by shifting the antihelix fold towards the ear canal entrance with the minimally invasive Merck Stitch Method.

Adam Goodwin, MBBS, FRCS(Plast) · Answer

Its possible of course but you don't have any antithetical fold so that might also need to be addressed. Ask a local PS what they think but for me the antithetical fold may be all that is needed. fold your ear back in the mirror and see if that gets you ant you want. hope that helps, Adam Goodwin

Kenneth R. Francis, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear jackitty,The procedure to reduce ear prominence is called otoplasty.  It can consist of several maneuvers, depending on the condition.  It looks as though you need not only a conchal bowl reduction, but a fold creation as well.  Good luck!

Conchal bowl reduction - is it possible on my ears? (photos)

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