Otoplasty: An Alternative Approach

Abstract

Objective: An alternative approach to perform otoplasty by combining cartilage excision, Mustarde technique and modified Furnas technique.

Method: Postauricular skin excision including subcutaneous tissue and postauricularis muscle was created to expose the deep surface of auricular cartilage. The anterior surface of the cymba and cavum conchae is marked. Posterior cartilage island excision is made in the cymba and cavum conchae leaving at least 5 mm of the helix root.

Results: The antihelix surgical procedure consists of a classical Mustarde suturing to recreate the fold of the new antihelix. Finally, stabilization of the conchal cartilage is achieved by 2 nonabsorbable sutures (cymba, cavum conchae) to the mastoid fascia with superior and inferior vectors to improve the prominence of the helix to the scalp. Our preference for skin closure is polypropylene 5-0 suture.

Conclusion: This combined technique is safe and easy to perform, with a good cosmetic outcome. The advantages are: 1) Avoid leaving a wrinkled appearance in the anterior conchal skin, and 2) Accomplish a better conchomastoid complex stabilization.