Comparison of the result of consolidative technique otoplasty and incisionless otoplasty in the repairs of prominent ears

We aimed to compare the long-term results of complications of consolidative technique otoplasty (CTO) and incisionless otoplasty (IO). The study consists of 156 patients who were operated between 2006 and 2015. According to surgical techniques, these patients were divided into two groups as IO group and CTO group. The distance between the head and the ear was assessed by measuring the four points preoperatively and postoperatively (SUP: most superior helical point, SCA: superior conchal attachment, ICA: inferior conchal attachment, and lobule). Early and late postoperative complications, operative time were recorded. 128 ears in IO group, 163 ears in CTO group were prominent. When postoperative SUP, SCA, ICA, lobule values for right and left ears in both groups were statistically evaluated, it was found that CTO technique has led to significantly greater improvement compared to the IO technique (p < 0.001). The success rate in IO technique and CTO technique was 72 and 96 %, respectively. Early complications were similar in both groups. The late period complication determined much more frequently was seen in the IO group. Concerning operative time, it was identified as significantly lower in the IO group (p < 0.001). The early-term outcomes of both techniques were similar; however, the complication rates due to suture material and needed for revision in IO technique were higher whereas CTO technique was more permanent with lower complication risks.