Ear Fold Surgery: A Comprehensive Guide to Correcting Prominent Ears

Introduction

Prominent ears, affecting approximately 5% of the general population, can be a source of psychological distress for many individuals. Ear fold surgery, also known as otoplasty, offers a solution to this common congenital deformity. This article will explore the various aspects of ear fold surgery, from its techniques to recovery and long-term results.

Understanding Prominent Ear Deformity

Prominent ears are typically characterized by two main issues:

• Underdevelopment of the antihelical fold
• A prominent conchal bowl

According to a study by Kang et al. (2021), these factors contribute to the ear's protrusion from the side of the head. Understanding these anatomical features is crucial for successful surgical correction.

Surgical Techniques for Ear Fold Correction

Several techniques have been developed to address prominent ears:

1. Cartilage Scoring and Suturing

This technique involves scoring the cartilage and using sutures to create or enhance the antihelical fold. Frascino (2009) reported a success rate of 92.55% using a modified version of this technique.

2. Cartilage Sparing Techniques

Some surgeons prefer cartilage-sparing methods to reduce the risk of visible irregularities. Zhang et al. (2010) described a technique that achieved satisfactory results in almost all cases with a follow-up of 1 to 24 months.

3. Minimally Invasive Approaches

Recent advancements include minimally invasive techniques like the Earfold™ implant. Kang et al. (2021) reported high patient satisfaction rates with this method, especially when combined with conchal bowl reduction.

The Surgical Process

Ear fold surgery typically involves the following steps:

1. Preoperative marking and planning
2. Local anesthesia administration
3. Incision behind the ear or within the ear folds
4. Cartilage manipulation (scoring, suturing, or implant placement)
5. Skin closure and dressing application

The procedure usually takes 1-2 hours and is often performed as an outpatient surgery.

Recovery and Results

Recovery from ear fold surgery is generally straightforward. Lemperle et al. (2024) reported that most patients experience minimal discomfort and can return to normal activities within a week. However, it's important to follow post-operative instructions carefully to ensure optimal healing.

Long-term results are typically very satisfactory. A study by Taş et al. (2016) showed statistically significant improvements in ear appearance and high patient satisfaction rates.

Potential Complications and Considerations

While ear fold surgery is generally safe, potential complications can include:

• Asymmetry
• Suture extrusion
• Overcorrection or undercorrection
• Scarring

Alzayadneh et al. (2022) reported a significantly lower suture extrusion rate (0.47%) when using a soft tissue graft technique, compared to the average rate of 5.55% in previous literature.

Conclusion

Ear fold surgery offers a reliable solution for individuals with prominent ears, potentially improving self-esteem and quality of life. With advancements in surgical techniques and a better understanding of ear anatomy, otoplasty has become safer and more effective than ever. If you're considering ear fold surgery, consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your options and determine the best approach for your unique case.