A combined technique for correction of the prominent ear

PURPOSE: The literature illustrates a large number of different techniques for the correction of the prominent ear, and the great variety available is indicative of how difficult it is to achieve satisfactory results in all cases. This report describes a procedure for successfully treating such patients. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Forty patients were treated with a surgical procedure creating a new anthelical plica based on the Stenstrom and Mustarde method and producing an anatomic cavity in the mastoid region where the concha can be repositioned according to the Furnas method. The tension of the "cartilage spring," which is a likely cause of relapse, was relieved by dissecting a triangular portion of cartilage from the root of the inferior crus. RESULTS: No major complications were observed with this technique and a good esthetic result was achieved in all cases. CONCLUSIONS: This surgical technique is suitable for correction of all cases of prominent ear.