Is It Possible to Put a Fold in my Ears? (photo)

Question

My ears do protrude out a bit, but that is not what really bothers me. What really bothers me is the flat top of my ears or lack of fold. I would love to have this corrected!!! Is it possible to correct this lack of fold, and, if so, what would the surgery entail? Thank you for any and all responses!!!

Thomas Buonassisi, MD · Answer

Your ear shape is a variation of normal. The antihelical fold is absent in your case but can be created surgically. The procedure is called Otoplasty and is a very popular procedure in our young patients. Here's some information about the surgery

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

It is possible to create a fold in your upper ear (helical rim), and is in fact a common issue that’s corrected by plastic surgeons experienced in cosmetic ear surgery. It may involve modifying the cartilage in your ear to recreate this fold.

Jeffrey J. Roth, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for the photos.  In the adult with protruding ears, otoplasty is the standard method.   This operation is performed commonly.  Many adults are coming in to have their ears addressed nowadays. The surgery is usually very well tolerated.  Best to see an experienced surgeon.  Ask questions and look at his/her photos.

Mark Anton, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello San Francisco- Ears are funny shaped objects with many different named contours. From your photo, it appears that the 'superior crus', which is an extension of your 'anti-helix, is a bit flat. This superior crus can easily be given more of a fold with an otoplasty and it will make your upper ear appear less flat. If the part of your ear that bothers you the most is the lack of a well-defined 'helical rim', then this is harder to create. It may be that your slightly "flat" helical rim would't bother you as much if you addressed improving your 'superior crus' fold. That is probably the simplest approach for improvement in your case. If it is the helical rim that bothers you the most, make sure that you make that point clear to your surgeon during your consult.

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

You appear to have a deep conchal bowl, and absence of an anti helical fold. Outstanding ear like yours may be corrected with Otoplasty surgery through a scar in the crease between your ear and your head. 

	There are two types of Otoplasty surgeries: cartilage-splitting Otoplasty, and suture Otoplasty. Natural looking results may be achieved with either procedure Surgeons usually prefer one over the other, based on their training and personal preference.

	In our practice, suture Otoplasty  using the techniques described by Furnas and Mustarde are preferred.

	Hope this helps you.

	Dr. Joseph

Toby Mayer, MD · Answer

Otoplasty for prominent ears that are not "folded" can be corrected under local anesthesia.You need to wear a headband for a week and when u sleep.

Joseph M. Perlman, MD · Answer

This is a common problem for men and women. Most patients are treated before they start school or for some girls, when they become teenagers. The procedure involves making the incision behind the ear and placing sutures to create the antihelix fold and bring the ear closer to the head. It is done as an outpatient under IV sedation or general anesthesia in most cases. I have my patients where the sweatband, while at home, to keep the ear close the head for about two weeks. I can tell when the patient happy with the results because they usually come in for follow-up wearing their hair up, rather than covering their ears

John F. Reinisch, MD · Answer

It is possible to place a fold. Surgery is typically done as an office procedure lasting 1.5 hours and is done under local anesthesia much like going to a dentist with minimal discomfort. Our patient typically watch a movie on our flat screen during their procedure. We ask you to wear a small dressing for one day after surgery. You can shower and wash hair the day after surgery. There is minimal bruising and slight swelling for about one week.

Jeffrey Zwiren, MD · Answer

You have the typical appearance of some one who would benefit from an otoplasty. You have a deep conchal bowl as well as absence or malformation of the anti-helical fold. An otoplasty is designed to recreate these natural features. In older patients the surgery can be performed under local anesthesia if desired.

Stephen Weber MD, FACS · Answer

Yes, it is possible to create the natural fold in the upper portion of your ear. The procedure that would do this is called an otoplasty. This can be performed just on one side or both sides, depending upon which ear(s) trouble you. Seek a highly experienced Facial Plastic Surgeon who has performed many otoplasties to minimize the risk of an natural result. I hope this information is helpful.

Is It Possible to Put a Fold in my Ears? (photo)

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