Otoplasty is a surgical procedure designed to correct alterations in the shape, position, or proportion of the ears. Although it is often associated primarily with the correction of prominent ears, it actually encompasses a set of surgical techniques aimed at restoring auricular harmony while respecting each patient's individual anatomy.
Auricular anatomy and basics of the procedure
The ear is composed of elastic cartilage covered with skin, with key structures such as the helix , antihelix , concha , tragus , and lobe .
The most common deformities that lead to the indication for otoplasty include:
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Absence or poor development of the antihelix fold
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Hypertrophy of the auricular concha
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Increased atriocephalic angle
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Auricular asymmetries
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Congenital or acquired alterations (trauma)
The surgical objective is not to "attach" the ear, but to recreate a natural anatomy , with well-defined folds and a balanced position relative to the skull.
Medical and aesthetic indications
Otoplasty may be indicated for aesthetic, functional, or psychological reasons. It is indicated in:
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Patients with prominent ears who wish to improve facial proportions
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Cases of significant atrial asymmetry
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Sequelae of trauma
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Partial reconstruction of the auricle
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Physical or emotional discomfort associated with the shape of the ears
It can be performed on adults and adolescents , and even on children from 5-6 years of age, when the auricular cartilage has reached an adequate development.
Most commonly used surgical techniques
The choice of technique depends on the patient's anatomy and the type of alteration to be corrected. Among the most commonly used are:
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Mustardé technique : recreation of the antihelix fold using permanent sutures.
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Furnas technique : fixation of the auricular concha to the mastoid fascia to reduce projection.
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Cartilage modeling or weakening : used when the cartilage is rigid and resistant.
In many cases, several techniques are combined to achieve a more precise and stable result.
Anesthesia and duration of the procedure
Otoplasty can be performed under:
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Local anesthesia with sedation , in adults
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General anesthesia , especially in pediatric patients
The average duration of the procedure is 1 to 2 hours , depending on the complexity of the case and whether it is performed unilaterally or bilaterally.
Postoperative period and stability of results
The postoperative period is usually well tolerated. It is common to use a compression bandage during the first few days to protect the new ear shape.
Key points of the postoperative period include:
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Mild inflammation and discomfort, usually manageable with painkillers
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Use of a nighttime elastic band for a few weeks
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Gradual return to daily activities
The results are definitive and stable , provided that the postoperative instructions are respected and the surgical technique has been correctly indicated.
Importance of specialized evaluation
Otoplasty is a procedure that requires a high level of anatomical knowledge and aesthetic sense , since small adjustments can generate large visual differences.
A proper preoperative assessment allows for setting realistic expectations, choosing the appropriate technique, and ensuring natural and harmonious results.
