Flap ears (otherwise known as lug ears) often cause great discomfort in both adults and children. In general,otoplasty, a cosmetic surgery that reshapes the outer part of the ear, has always been used to correct this defect. It is an easy and risk-free operation, but a surgical procedure nonetheless. Now, however, it is possible to correct 'floppy ears' with a new method called Ear Fold that is truly minimally invasive.

EarFold is a medical device conceived and designed by English surgeon Norbert Kang that, after successes abroad, is now also gaining a foothold in Italy.

How does it work?

It starts by establishing the degree of correction to be made using the PreFold system, thanks to which the patient can preview what the final result will be and agree it with the doctor. After this initial assessment, one can move on to the actual procedure, which consists of inserting the EarFold device under the skin at the ear, i.e. a biocompatible gold-coated clip that is inserted on an outpatient basis in just a few minutes. Despite the simplicity and speed of the procedure, it is still possible to give the desired shape to the pinna, a shape that will be maintained over time. The procedure can take between 5 and 20 minutes depending on the correction to be made and is performed under local anaesthesia. After the operation the patient can then immediately return to his or her life.

But who is this surgery suitable for and how does it differ from otoplasty surgery?

Earfold is suitable for patients with loop ears that are due to the absence of the anthelix fold, i.e. about 70 per cent of people with this type of ear. earFold is suitable for adults and children from 7 years of age.

Otoplasty involves a longer surgical time and a much more demanding postoperative course. This is why the EarFold system is preferable, subject to the doctor's assessment, as sometimes, for the type of ear defect, otoplasty is the only option.

Advantages of EarFold

• Minimally invasive treatment
• Local anaesthesia
• Surgery duration of 5-20 minutes
• Possibility of a personalised approach
• Permanent result