What are the different types of sutures used for Otoplasty? And can an ear be set back again if there is redrift? (photo)

Dear JamesThanks for posting your question.Personally, I use a suture technique using a permanent braided stitch - precisely to avoid the risk of stretch of the stitch over time, which might result in protrusion of the ears.I feel that the techniques that use stitches allow me more control over the shaping of the ear, as opposed to other techniques that score or excise the cartilage I would suggest consulting with a plastic surgeon experienced in otoplasty operations (correction of prominent ears) for further discussions and adviceGood luck

It really depends on the amount of correction required and the technique utilized.  I have used both monofilament and braided suture.  From your view point, it's best to find a surgeon who is familiar with the various techniques available and can explain to you why his/her recommendation makes sense.  It's important to understand that with every procedure there is a chance of a revision.  The interplay between the suture material, cartilage, healing process and aging is not necessarily predictable.Thanks for asking!Dr Ellen Mahony

The otoplasty procedure involves making cuts in the cartilage and sewing the cartilage together with permanent sutures. We use braided sutures rather clear monofilament which tend to hold tissues better. There still can be re-drift which would take a touch of procedure sometime within the first year.