Repair of the Protruding Lobule

Background: In this paper, the author describes a novel step-by-step setback procedure for correcting protruding lobules; the success of correcting protruding lobules depends on the nature and severity of the auricular lobule deformity. Although the auricular lobules occupy small areas on either side of the head, protruding or misshapen lobules exert a significant and sometimes exaggerated disfiguring influence on the otherwise aesthetically pleasing appearance of the ears. Because the lobule is a soft structure without a cartilage skeleton, the correction of a protruding ear and lobule is always a challenge. Methods: Protruding lobule abnormalities stem from deformities of the cauda helicis (cartilaginous helical tail) of the auricular lobule, soft tissue, and/or a shortage of anterior skin; however, the abnormalities are usually a combination of all of the above. Therefore, surgical procedures should address all of the causes of lobule deformity and preserve as much tissue and blood supply as possible. Achieving a successful intervention depends on reducing the tension that affects the entire lobule. Results: This is a retrospective analysis of 660 patients who had otoplasty performed by the first author between January 2010 and December 2017. Correction of the ear lobule was needed in 398 (60.3%) patients. Of these, 44.6% patients were male, 55.4% female and the average age was 9 years (range 4-18 years). In this patient cohort, 356 (89.4%) required bilateral and 42 (10.5%) unilateral ear lobule correction. Standardized pre- and postoperative images were recorded for each patient. Conclusion: The goal of a setback procedure is a natural and harmonious auricular lobule appearance that is achieved through simple, optimal surgery that addresses all of the features of the auricular anatomy.

The Protruding Ear: Cosmetic and Reconstruction

Ear prominence is a relatively common cosmetic deformity with no associated functional deficits, but with profound psychosocial impact, especially in young patients. Protruding ears in children have propagated surgical advances that incorporate reconstructive techniques. Here we outline a systematic framework to evaluate the protruding ear and present various reconstructive surgical options for correction. Both cosmetic and reconstructive perspectives should be entertained when addressing this anatomical deformity.

A simple photographic classification of protruding ears

Backgroud: Protruding ear is the most commonly found auricular populational deformity with significant social consequences. The problem is clearly perceptible in frontal facial images, but a simple photographic classification for prominence has not yet been defined. Methods: Frontal facial images of forty patients with protruding ears and 102 controls were prospectively collected. A rectangle was drawn in each ear, involving its full visible anatomy. The height of each rectangle was divided by its width in each ear. Results: Results show a trend for higher values in the protruding ears group when compared to controls for both ears. Discussion: This finding can be useful for the classification of this auricular deformity.

A simple photographic classification of protruding ears

Backgroud: Protruding ear is the most commonly found auricular populational deformity with significant social consequences. The problem is clearly perceptible in frontal facial images, but a simple photographic classification for prominence has not yet been defined. Methods: Frontal facial images of forty patients with protruding ears and 102 controls were prospectively collected. A rectangle was drawn in each ear, involving its full visible anatomy. The height of each rectangle was divided by its width in each ear. Results: Results show a trend for higher values in the protruding ears group when compared to controls for both ears. Discussion: This finding can be useful for the classification of this auricular deformity.