[Current progress of laser-assisted cartilage reshaping for prominent ear].

Objective: To summarize the current progress of laser-assisted cartilage reshaping (LACR) for prominent ear.

Methods: The domestic and abroad article concerning the LACR in treatment of prominent ear was reviewed and analyzed.

Results: As a new technique, there were three types of LACR therapies that been used for prominent ear. LACR with the 1 064 nm Nd/YAG laser is painful and the penetration depth of the 1 064 nm Nd/YAG laser is greater than that of the 1540 nm Er/Glass laser which is caused more tissue injury. LACR with the 1 540 nm Er/Glass laser has high absorption by the ear cartilage and produce less injury to the surrounding tissue. Use of the CO 2 laser permitted cartilage reshaping combined with both vaporization and incisions, which complicates the technique, although, with low recurrence rate and definite effect. Insisting on wearing ear mold is the key to get satisfactory effectiveness for postoperative patients. The complications of LACR for prominent ear, such as the dermatitis, perforation of the skin, hematoma, or infection, should be noticed.

Conclusion: Application of LACR for prominent ear just has a short period of time, limited number of cases, and few relevant literature reports. Its effectiveness needs to be further studied and clarified.