Otoplasty

Aesthetic Otoplasty: Principles, Techniques and an Integrated Approach to Patient-Centric Outcomes

BACKGROUND

Otoplasty is a century-old procedure that, through continued modifications, now has over two hundred different procedures described in the literature. In this article, we seek to describe the anatomy and principles of aesthetic otoplasty, as well as some of the key contributions to aesthetic otoplasty. This article will also outline some of the most commonly used techniques today and associated patient outcomes.

METHODS

We present a review of the literature of relevant anatomy, pathophysiology and common techniques and outcomes. We also provide a discussion of several patients with associated techniques and outcomes.

RESULTS

The treatment of prominent ear has developed through manipulation and experimentation. The outcomes are defined by the native anatomy, the surgical technique and the attention to patient-centered outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Aesthetic otoplasty remains one of the most important surgical techniques and common procedures in plastic surgery. Using an integrated approach guided by known principles as well as patient goals allows for optimal outcome in aesthetic otoplasty.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE V

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Analysis in otoplasty

The normal auricle has a well-recognized shape, and significant deviation from "normal" is immediately evident. In particular, prominent ears are readily apparent and are a relatively frequent cause of patient concern. Correction of the outstanding ear requires a careful understanding of the discrete elements that compose the normal ear. Careful anatomic analysis to determine the precise cause allows appropriate preoperative planning for the correction of a protruding ear.