Pitanguy's method of protruding ear correction from our own experience: review of 80 cases

A recent review of the literature revealed more than 20 methods of correction of protruding ears. Pitanguy's cartilage island flap technique is still not widespread. However, it is extraordinarily versatile and effective from our own experience. The aim of this study is to present our own experience in the correction of prominent ears using this method. According to Pitanguy's cartilage island flap technique, 80 patients were operated on at the Private Plastic Surgery Clinic from 1992 to 1999. There were 45 (56%) female and 35 (44%) male patients, aged from 9 to 37 years (22 years on average). All procedures were performed under local anesthesia. In the follow-up period of 1 to 8 years the final aesthetic results were estimated as very good in 68 (85%) patients and good in 12 (15%) patients. Early complications in the form of bleeding occurred in three (3.75%) patients. Asymmetry in the ears' position was qualified as a late complication and occurred in four (5%) patients.