Do combined otoplasty techniques really improve the surgical outcomes for prominent ear correction in adult patients?

OBJECTIVE: Prominent Ear is a genetic malformation of the human ear. It occurs due to malformation of cartilage during primitive ear development in intrauterine life. Multiple surgical techniques for the correction of protruding ears have been described which include: incisions, sutures, and cartilage scoring, isolated or in combination. To date, no ideal method that fulfills the aim of a complete surgical resolution has been described in adult patients. The aim of our study is to discuss the main surgical technique' described in order to identify technical association to obtain optimal surgical outcome with minimal surgical morbidity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: We've carried out a retrospective chart review of 74 patients suffering from protruding ears. Our cohort was divided in two groups based on the otoplasty technique performed, Mustarde (Group A) versus Chongchet + Furnas (Group B).

RESULTS: With the exception of wound infections and hematomas, which have a similar incidence, the morbidity rate was higher in Group A patients.

CONCLUSIONS: Both surgical approaches are effective for prominent ear correction but our combined technical procedure has advantages over patient satisfaction and recurrence rates.

KEY WORDS: Combined technique, Otoplasty technique, Otoplasty in adult, Prominent ear deformity.