Laser-assisted cartilage reshaping for protruding ears: A review of the clinical applications.

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS: In 2006, our institute reported the first clinical use of laser-assisted cartilage reshaping (LACR) for protruding ears. Since then, the technique has been developed and refined. This article reviews the literature on the clinical application of LACR.

STUDY DESIGN: Literature review.

METHODS: A MEDLINE literature search was performed on LACR combined with cross-referencing. The period of search was 1993 to 2014. Search terms used were: laser, cartilage reshaping, protruding ears, LACR.

RESULTS: Only seven clinical studies using three different wavelengths were found in the literature: 1,064 nm (Nd:YAG), 10,600 nm (CO2), and 1540 nm (Er:Glass). Clinical outcomes, laser wavelength and parameters, and patient satisfaction are discussed in each case.

CONCLUSIONS: The success rate for ear reshaping achieved with LACR appears promising. The use of this noninvasive technique will increase in the near future.