Treatment of the Prominent Ear: A Standardized Approach Without Intraoperative Measurements

Background: Candidates for otoplasty have variable anatomy that may result in an aesthetically suboptimal appearance. The authors describe an algorithm to obtain ideal aesthetic position of the ear using a standardized suturing only technique. Methods: A retrospective review was conducted at a major children's hospital. Pre- and postoperative distances from the mastoid to the posterior lateral helical rim were measured at 3 consistent points (upper helix, mid helix, and lobule). Cosmetic outcomes were determined by visual analog cosmetic score (VACS), assigned by 3 independent reviewers. Results: A total of 26 patients underwent otoplasty for prominent ear (average age 8.2 years). Duration of follow-up was an average of 32 weeks postoperatively. Pre- and postoperative VACSs were determined for all patients: overall-appearance, 25.8 versus 71.3; overall-ear appearance, 25.7 versus 70.0; shape, 24.4 versus 72.6; and projection, 23.7 versus 73.9 (P 

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