Treatment of prominent and constricted ear anomalies

Abstract

Although the physiologic effects of ear deformity are negligible, the aesthetic and psychological impact on the patient can be profound. Significant ear malformations are prevalent in today's society and affect more than 5 percent of the population. Although the prominent ear results from either underdevelopment of the antihelix or an enlarged conchal bowl, the constricted ear is a product of helical down-folding and height deficiency. After a thorough evaluation, surgical management of the prominent ear must be approached in a careful, rational fashion. Although the surgeon may enjoy the wide latitude that hundreds of corrective techniques offer, he or she must always proceed with an algorithmic application of technique best suited to the specific auricular deformity. By using this approach, correction of the prominent ear can go beyond patient satisfaction to predictably maximize outcome in both form and symmetry. From the clinical evaluation and anatomical basis to surgical management of the deformed ear, the true art of otoplasty is in the surgeon's ability to thoroughly understand auricular structure and appropriately apply technique for maximal aesthetic outcome.