Reconstruction of Upper Third Ear Defects: Utility of a Limited Tanzer Reduction

BACKGROUND Large ear defects (>3 cm) present a significant reconstructive challenge and often require extensive operations, which can lead to donor-site morbidity and contour abnormalities. Through our case series, we propose a limited Tanzer reduction, a novel modification of the well-recognized Tanzer technique, as a potential reconstructive option for traumatic and oncologic upper third ear defects. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent planned ear reconstruction for large ear defects (>3 cm) at a university center by a single surgeon (WPT) over a five-year period. Demographics, complications, and need for revision surgery were recorded. A satisfaction survey was also completed. RESULTS Five patients met our inclusion criteria as they underwent ear reconstruction with the limited Tanzer reduction. All reconstructions followed oncologic resection for cutaneous malignancy. The mean follow-up was 760.2 days. No complications were encountered, and no revisions were required. All cases had good aesthetic outcomes. The satisfaction survey revealed no self-image distortion or social obstacles following the reconstruction. CONCLUSION The proposed limited Tanzer reduction technique was shown to be a safe, viable, functionally and aesthetically pleasing option for the reconstruction of large defects of the ear and thus should be part of the armamentarium of the reconstructive surgeon.