Otoplasty Blogs

Otoplasty is a plastic surgical procedure that improves the position, shape, size, and symmetry of the ears. Incisionless Otoplasty is a minimally invasive technique that can be used in certain patients to correct the prominence of the upper portion of the ears. While not applicable to all imperfections of the ear, incisionless otoplasty limits the scarring on the back of the ear which can be advantageous in patients with a tendency toward unsightly or hypertrophic scarring.

Otoplasty is a plastic surgical procedure that improves the position, shape, size, and symmetry of the ears. Incisionless Otoplasty is a minimally invasive technique that can be used in certain patients to correct the prominence of the upper portion of the ears. While not applicable to all imperfections of the ear, incisionless otoplasty limits the scarring on the back of the ear which can be advantageous in patients with a tendency toward unsightly or hypertrophic scarring.

Everything You Want to Know About Incisionless Otoplasty

An otoplasty consists of a combination of surgical maneuvers that are most commonly performed to correct the prominence of the ears. If the ear is divided conceptually into the upper third, middle third and lower third, different maneuvers are required to correct the prominence in each of those three areas.

Most otoplasties are performed through an incision on the back of the ear. If the size and shape of the ear require alteration and not just the prominence, then incisions may also be required on the visible surface of the ear and are usually well hidden beneath the overhang of the rim.

In patients whose ears are prominent but of normal size and shape, otoplasty sets the ear back so it is closer to the head. Incisionless otoplasty is a technique where the same maneuvers are performed but with smaller incisions on the back of the ear to place the required sutures. Incisionless otoplasty allows correction of the prominence if it is confined to the upper third of the ear. If the ears are very prominent in the middle third and/or lower third (lobes), then the incisionless technique is not appropriate or must be combined with other incisions to make sure all components of the ear are corrected.

In other words, incisionless otoplasty is an excellent option for one component of otoplasty and is applicable to patients whose concerns are limited to prominence of the upper third of the ear.

How is Incisionless Otoplasty Performed?

Correction of upper ear prominence requires placement of permanent sutures in the ear cartilage. Incisionless otoplasty involves passing those sutures under the skin without making a separate incision. As such, it reduces the visible scar, delivers good results in the appropriate patient, and may reduce the post-op healing time.

Children are usually given general anesthesia when performing otoplasty, whether it is incisionless or otherwise. For adults, local anesthesia with or without local sedation is preferred.

What to Expect After the Procedure?

Post-op swelling, tenderness, and some bruising are common but will disappear in a few days. If you have incisionless otoplasty alone, then you won’t have to wear a bandage. 

Is Incisionless Otoplasty a gimmick?

No, incisionless otoplasty is an excellent technique in some patients but is not applicable to all patients undergoing otoplasty.

Consult a Plastic Surgeon

Consult a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your candidacy for traditional or incisionless otoplasty. Depending on your anatomy and aesthetic goals, an experienced surgeon will be able to determine if incisionless otoplasty is appropriate for your situation.

Charles H. Thorne, MD, is a well-known, experienced, Park Avenue plastic surgeon with expertise in plastic surgery of the ears. Schedule a virtual consultation with Dr. Thorne to discuss your candidacy for otoplasty.