Otoplasty

• Published in: Annales de chirurgie plastique et esthétique 2016-10, Vol.61 (5), p.703-712
• Main Authors: Ellart, J, Guerreschi, P, Pasquesoone, L, Duquennoy-Martinot, V
• Format: Article
• Language: fre
• Subjects: Ear, External - abnormalities; Ear, External - surgery; Humans; Reconstructive Surgical Procedures - methods
• ISSN: 1768-319X
• DOI: 10.1016/j.anplas.2016.05.007

Prominent ears can have a significant psychological impact especially in children. It is often the subject of negative remarks among classmates. Prominent ears are the result of one or more congenital anomalies that may be associated together in various degrees. Absence of antihelical fold, opening the cephalo-conchal angle and conchal hypertrophy are the most common. The surgery aims to correct these anomalies, by reshaping the cartilage in order to obtain well-shaped ears that is normally positioned and oriented with natural size and appearance. It combines different steps that need to be simple and fast. Retro-auricular incision, and dissection posteriorly allows to expose and remove the post-auricular muscle. Modeling of antihelical fold aims to restore a natural relief by closing the scapha-conchal angle. The concha is then buried and is securely attached to the pre-mastoid periosteum, which by consequence closes cephalo-conchal angle. The result must be harmonious and sustainable. Each surgeon adopts a suitable technique for him to obtain best results, by avoiding complications mainly infection, which is fortunately exceptional.