Are Protective Dressings Used After Subtotal Otoplasty Reversals?

Q: Dr. Eppley, my son had a poorly performed otoplasty which resulted in excessive pinning of the middle third of both ears. We have been researching the cadaver cartilage bracing reverse otoplasty procedure and are curious what the recovery for that procedure would look like. How many months would the ears need to be protected during sleep? How have your other patients protected their postoperative ears during sleep? Any information is appreciated.

A:I have never done any special ‘protective’ maneuvers after a subtotal reversal otoplasty including any postoperative dressing…although to date these have all been in adults.

Dr. Barry Eppley

World-Renowned Plastic Surgeon