Background: One of the most established techniques for
management of protruding ears is the Mustardé technique (1).
Many modifications had been published for this technique;
however, all these modifications started by retro-auricular
incision. We modify the Mustardé technique using three
retroauricular microincisions to correct several deformities
of the auricular cartilage in protruding ears.
Patients and Methods: 46 patients (7 unilateral, 39 bilateral)
(85 ears) who were candidates for this technique, their
age (25±2.8 years), 38 males, 8 females. The operation time,
steps, follow-up sessions (2 weeks, 3, 6 and 18 months) data
was recorded. Pre-operative and post-operative (1, 18 months)
photos were compared and analyzed by custom made computer
program the evaluated the results.
Results: 42 patients achieve a natural appearance. Extrusion
of threads occurred in 8 ears. Asymmetrical ears were
noticed in 4 patients and recurrence in 11 patients. These
patients were revised by Mustardé technique with retroauricular
incisions. None of the patients developed retroauricular
scars.
Conclusion: This versatile modif ication allows for better
asthenic results of otoplasty and minimizes complications of
skin incision unless cartilage and/or skin resection is needed.