OTOPLASTY - SHAPING THE ANTIHELIX

In completing a satisfactory repair of the prominent ear, the shape of the antihelical fold is often the key to the aesthetic outcome. Corre ction involves not just creating a fold in the antihelix but also esta blishing a smooth sweep or antihelical curve anterior to posterior as well. The essential components described include accurate scoring of t he antihelical fold followed by placement of mattress fixation sutures , with emphasis on obliquely placed sutures to control the final curve and shape of the antihelix. Sutures placed obliquely can solve the pr oblem of persistent upper-pole prominence as in a telephone deformity, or overfolding which can stigmatize otoplasty.