Braces for postoperative bandage after otoplasty.

Postoperative bandaging following otoplasty is commonly used. It is also frequently perceived as cumbersome and often lost by patients. Simple splinting potentially offers a less obtrusive postoperative ear fixation. Braces consisting of silicone-coated steel wire have been designed for simpler and lighter postoperative fixation. The braces replaced conventional bandaging. The initial favorable experience with the ear braces is described following the otoplasty of 17 ears. It is suggested that the use of splints may improve the immediate postoperative appearance, and subsequently compliance for patients. However, the long-term effect of postoperative bandaging remains unknown.