Repair of the Protruding Lobule

In this paper, the author describes a novel step-by-step setback procedure for correcting protruding lobules; the success of correcting protruding lobules depends on the nature and severity of the auricular lobule deformity. Although the auricular lobules occupy small areas on either side of the head, protruding or misshapen lobules exert a significant and sometimes exaggerated disfiguring influence on the otherwise aesthetically pleasing appearance of the ears. Because the lobule is a soft structure without a cartilage skeleton, the correction of a protruding ear and lobule is always a challenge.

Protruding lobule abnormalities stem from deformities of the cauda helicis (cartilaginous helical tail) of the auricular lobule, soft tissue, and/or a shortage of anterior skin; however, the abnormalities are usually a combination of all of the above. Therefore, surgical procedures should address all of the causes of lobule deformity and preserve as much tissue and blood supply as possible. Achieving a successful intervention depends on reducing the tension that affects the entire lobule.

This is a retrospective analysis of 660 patients who had otoplasty performed by the first author between January 2010 and December 2017. Correction of the ear lobule was needed in 398 (60.3%) patients. Of these, 44.6% patients were male, 55.4% female and the average age was 9 years (range 4-18 years). In this patient cohort, 356 (89.4%) required bilateral and 42 (10.5%) unilateral ear lobule correction. Standardized pre- and postoperative images were recorded for each patient.

The goal of a setback procedure is a natural and harmonious auricular lobule appearance that is achieved through simple, optimal surgery that addresses all of the features of the auricular anatomy.