“CAULIFLOWER EARS”
Among the first of the beauty operations to attract public attention was the correction of what the pugilists call a cauliflower or “tin” ear. This term is applied to the result of a powerful force sharply administered to the appendages on the sides of the prizefighter’s visage. Immediately thereafter the blood vessels beneath the skin burst and the blood pours out into the membranes which cover the cartilage or gristle of the ear. The blood distends the tissues of the ear to the extent of the blood pressure and until the blood coagulates. The swelling thus formed may gradually be absorbed and the ear return to its normal state, but in many instances tissue forms out of the mass and when this contracts the ear is distorted into the cauliflower shape. Dr. Samuel Iglaur has pointed out that it is the left ear that is usually of the cauliflower variety, since this ear receives most of the wallops from the right fist of the opponent. Cauliflower ears are also seen frequently in wrestlers, and before the development of headgear were not unusual in football players.
After the pugilist develops affluence and is ready to retire to the stage or the screen he is usually ready to submit himself to remodeling and decorative surgical art. If he develops this vanity previous to his retirement, the revamped ear is likely to become a special target for the opposition the moment he steps into the ring.