Antihelix Plasty Without Modeling Sutures

Abstract

Many techniques have been described for the surgical correction of protruding ears. A novel modification of a cartilage-sparing otoplastic technique is provided herein. In this modification, a diamond-coated file is used to abrade the anterior surface of the antihelical cartilage to create biomechanical remodeling with resultant formation of a new antihelix. A case series of 302 ears, operated on over a 3½-year period, is presented in support of this technique. This procedure is appropriate for patients having firm or soft auricular cartilage, an underdeveloped antihelical ridge, and a prominent or moderate hypertrophic conchal wall.