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Abnormal Shape

ear surgery center
Abnormal Shape

Cryptotia

Cryptotia

Cryptotia is a congenital deformity in which the upper


part of the ear is buried in the skin of the head.


When you pull the ear out, the full shape of the ear appears,


but when released, it goes back in. In daily life,


you may feel uncomfortable
because you cannot wear glasses or a mask.

Right time for surgery

Although there is no specific reference in the literature on the timing of surgery, empirically, it is recommended to do it in the upper grades of elementary school because they can tolerate local anesthesia and cartilage growth is almost finished. However, since the ears grow quickly and 85% of the ears grow by age 3-4, surgery is often conducted at a young age. At this time, however, surgery must be conducted under general anesthesia due to the young age. If the child is doing well without any difficulties, it is recommended that the ear be corrected at an age when he/she can withstand local anesthesia.

Treatment method

The treatment of cryptotia is to loosen the tissue that pulls the cartilage and supplement the skin on the upper part of the ear to ensure that the upper part of the ear naturally protrudes. Also, in many cases, secondary deformation of the upper part of the ear may be accompanied as the ears are buried for a long time (upper cartilage adhesion deformation). Therefore, it is necessary to correct not only cryptotia but also the accompanying upper deformity.

Anesthesia and duration of treatment

In most cases, surgery is conducted under local anesthesia and does not require hospitalization, so you can go home after resting for a while after the surgery. Sutures are removed about one to two weeks after surgery, and you must visit the doctor every 2-3 days during that time

Upper cartilage adhesion deformity

Literally, some of the cartilages of the upper part of the ear are attached to each other and deformed. It is often accompanied by a buried ear
but it is also common to occur alone without a buried ear.
The following is an example of an upper cartilage adhesion deformity without a buried ear.

Precautions after surgery

Immediately after surgery, care should be taken not to press the surgical area, and it is recommended not to make excessive movements to prevent the dressing from loosening. Be careful not to apply excessive force to the ear for at least 2-3 months.

Before & After (cryptotia accompanied by upper cartilage adhesion deformation)

  • Before
    After
  • Before
    After
  • Before
    After
  • Before
    After