Tacking the pinna with external mattress sutures to facilitate correction of prominent ears

Surgical correction of prominent ears is a highly rewarding procedure for both patient and surgeon. It is a common procedure and the involvement of trainee plastic surgeons is also frequent. As with any cosmetic procedure, the key to excellent results is careful preoperative planning. In cases where the main deformity is an underdeveloped antihelical fold, placement of Mustarde sutures is usually preferred. We found it beneficial to tack the pinna with external mattress sutures prior placement of permanent Mustarde sutures, to simulate the effects of scaphaconchal sutures. The external mattress sutures are placed after undermining the posterior auricular skin. This way, the extent of correction which is possible by placing only Mustarde sutures can be