Ear collapsed after alar batten procedure. Can the collapsed ear be made symmetric again? (photos)

September 23, 2021
Asked By:Happens2 in Richmond, Virginia

I had nasal valve surgery with a graft taken from my left ear. The ear collapsed after the surgery, and now lays flat against my head. Additionally, I can no longer sleep on my left side, because the outer rim cartilage is breaking down. It might need to be trimmed. My original surgeon offered to flatten the other ear to match, but I declined because of the outer rim cartilage issue, and I don't like the look. Can the collapsed ear be made symmetric again? Thank you for your response.

4 photos

Answers (1)

From board-certified doctors and trusted medical professionals
MOST RECENT
March 3, 2025

Answer: Consider setting back the right ear.

Eric M. Joseph, MDBoard Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon
MOST RECENT
March 3, 2025

Answer: Consider setting back the right ear.

Eric M. Joseph, MDBoard Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon

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