Cauliflower ear (auricular hematoma) is a well-documented permanent deformity commonly associated with blunt trauma from contact and combat sports like boxing, MMA, wrestling, or rugby. It occurs when the external portion of the ear is hit or suffers extreme pressure and develops a blood clot or other collection of fluid under the connective tissue around the cartilage. Cauliflower ears used to be regarded as inaesthetic, but they’ve apparently become a coveted feature.
Popular Telegram channel Baza recently reported that a growing number of Russian men are paying for procedures to get cauliflower ears and thus instill fear in other men. The procedure is reportedly most popular among men from the southern regions, but men from central Russia have also been requesting it.
According to someone claiming to offer cauliflower ear procedures, his service has become so popular that he is fully booked for a month in advance. He charges 6,000 rubles ($80) per ear, but adds that clients going for a more impressive visual effect need several sessions to get that seasoned fighter or wrestler look.
Experts warn that such procedures, when conducted by improperly trained personnel, can lead to hearing loss, cartilage inflammation, and possible purulent inflammation that develops into hematomas. Psychologist Ekaterina Trofimova also told M24 that the procedure is useless if the recipient lacks the confidence of a real MMA fighter.
“Sometimes true strength hides behind a mask of outward composure and absolute tranquility,” the psychologist said. “For example, a person skilled in martial arts may appear indistinguishable from any ordinary person. However, they exude a special calm and confidence that others can intuitively detect. They don’t need to display ostentatious masculinity.”
So there you have it, what used to be an unwanted side-effect of physical trauma is now a coveted beauty trend among men wanting to appear scarier than they are.
