Hair preparation in otoplasty

Abstract

The perpetual problem of hair interference in ear and scalp surgery is a particular menace during otoplasty of elastic bands in hair restraint, similar to the recent utilization of hemorrhoid bands during facelift procedures. Long hair may be simply braided to keep the bulk out of the operative field, but it is the fine periauricular hair that often evades such restraint. Antibacterial gels, or prep agents, applied by hand or comb, may be used to both control and improve the sterility of hair in the immediate vicinity, but are messy and leave a sticky residue unacceptable to many patients. For use where the incisions are limited to the postauricular region, such as during otoplasty, the use of a swimming hat has been described as a quick and cost-effective solution. The author describes the technique.