I am looking to have a setback otoplasty to reshape my helical rim and reduce the projection of my ear. My consultant had recommended dissolvable stitches during the procedure. My only concern is I do believe there is a higher change of relapse or the ears projecting out in future. Why would surgeon prefer to use dissolvable stitches? Are prominent stitches preferred vs the two? How are infections or any side effects post surgery from using permanent stitches avoided?
February 5, 2024
Answer: Otoplasty When performing an otoplasty, there are two major components: the anti-helix, which is the fold and the fold has to be bent further. I usually use permanent suture for this. The other component is conchal cartilage. This I usually resect and use absorbable sutures. I also use absorbable sutures on the closure. The advantage of the absorbable sutures is they will not be around to cause infection long term. The disadvantage is they lose their holding power.
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February 5, 2024
Answer: Otoplasty When performing an otoplasty, there are two major components: the anti-helix, which is the fold and the fold has to be bent further. I usually use permanent suture for this. The other component is conchal cartilage. This I usually resect and use absorbable sutures. I also use absorbable sutures on the closure. The advantage of the absorbable sutures is they will not be around to cause infection long term. The disadvantage is they lose their holding power.
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February 5, 2024
Answer: Otoplasty Suture Material Hello, hope you are well. These are good questions, and things that are discussed among surgeons. You will find lots of variation in the suture materials that are used for otoplasty. I tend to use non-absorbable for Mustarde sutures (anti-helical fold shaping), and absorbable for Furnas sutures (conchal setback). Ask your surgeon their reasoning if you have these questions. Presumably their experience and knowledge informs their judgement. The advantage of absorbable sutures is that issues with extrusion can be avoided. Infections are avoided in any case by using sterile anti-septic technique and prophylactic antibiotics at the discretion of your surgeon.
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February 5, 2024
Answer: Otoplasty Suture Material Hello, hope you are well. These are good questions, and things that are discussed among surgeons. You will find lots of variation in the suture materials that are used for otoplasty. I tend to use non-absorbable for Mustarde sutures (anti-helical fold shaping), and absorbable for Furnas sutures (conchal setback). Ask your surgeon their reasoning if you have these questions. Presumably their experience and knowledge informs their judgement. The advantage of absorbable sutures is that issues with extrusion can be avoided. Infections are avoided in any case by using sterile anti-septic technique and prophylactic antibiotics at the discretion of your surgeon.
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