Question: Is it possible for otoplasty to cause cauliflower ears?
Answer: Otoplasty is a term used to sculpt an otherwise deformed ear. Otoplasty techniques can be used to correct a cauliflower ear. Otoplasty requires cutting, thinning, and suturing the cartilage of the ear. If an accumulation of blood or fluid in the cartilage of the ear should occur following an otoplasty procedure and goes unrecognized for a period of time, then theoretically a cauliflower ear can result from the otoplasty procedure. Cauliflower ear occurs when an auricle is damaged and blood or fluid accumulate between the cartilage of the ear and the blood supply to the ear, resulting in cartilage death and eventually disfigurement.