Otoplasty Blogs

One would usually choose to undergo otoplasty to correct their ear deformities. But what causes these malformations in the first place? One thing that could cause it is the abnormal development of a person’s ear from birth. It is called a congenital ear deformity. Another reason could be due to a disease or a genetic disorder. 

Did you know that it is also possible for the ear to develop deformities because of an injury? It is called post-traumatic ear deformity.

One would usually choose to undergo otoplasty to correct their ear deformities. But what causes these malformations in the first place? One thing that could cause it is the abnormal development of a person’s ear from birth. It is called a congenital ear deformity. Another reason could be due to a disease or a genetic disorder. 

Did you know that it is also possible for the ear to develop deformities because of an injury? It is called post-traumatic ear deformity.

What are Post-Traumatic Ear Deformities?

Malformations of the ear due to trauma may cause different complications. Each case is unique and varied. Furthermore, it may also range from just cosmetic issues or may cause hearing problems. Here are some ear malformations that are caused by an injury.

Lacerations and tears

Ear lacerations are often caused by injuries related to sports or animal bites. It should be thoroughly assessed to determine the tissue and cartilage that needs to be grafted to successfully reconstruct the ear. The severity of the laceration and scarring will also determine the type of reconstruction needed. 

Additionally, your otoplasty surgeon will have to take into account where the incisions will be made, the risk of infection, and if the color of the skin graft matches the requirement. 

Auricular Hematoma

When blood gathers and collects under the auricle or your outer ear, this is called acute auricular trauma. Unless removed, the blood usually becomes cartilaginous which results in the cauliflower ear. If left alone it can be quite difficult to remove. 

Your otoplasty doctor may need to do repeated incisions to fully remove the hematoma. Dr.Thorne usually sutures the gauze bolsters to the outer ear or auricle to press the skin as close as possible to the ear’s cartilage to prevent the hematoma from recurring. 

Ear Keloids

Ear keloids occur when there is an overgrowth of scar tissue. This may happen because of the excess production of collagen during the healing process. It typically appears fleshy and lumpy. it is important to remember that despite its appearance, it is not harmful at all. However, it might be a source of slight irritation. Although this can happen to anyone, studies have shown that it is common for people with pigmented skin.  

Burns

Getting burnt on your ears can lead to auricular chondritis. It is the inflammation of your auricle’s cartilage. It usually occurs a few weeks after the injury.  A person who has this will feel warm in the ear, experience redness of the skin, tenderness on the affected site, and induration or formation of a hardened mass.

It is important to consult a doctor. Once it has been diagnosed, Dr. Thorne follows aggressive steps to prevent deformity and remove the infection. If this fails, then there is a high chance that the damaged auricular cartilage will need to be surgically removed.

If you have post-traumatic ear deformities or would like to learn more about it, you can set an online appointment here. Dr. Thorne specializes is an otoplasty and ear reconstruction expert with over 30 years of experience. He provides a wide range of treatments and reconstructive surgeries for ear and other facial deformities.