Partial helix defect repair by use of postauricular advancement flap combined with ipsilateral conchal cartilage graft

Objective: The objective of this study is to investigate the usage and effectiveness of postauricular advancement flap and conchal cartilage for surgical treatment of partial helix defect. Methods: Ten cases (eight males, two females) of unilateral partial ear defects were treated by using postauricular advancement flap combined with ipsilateral conchal cartilage graft. Of the 10 cases, nine cases were due to injury, one case was the result of frostbite. The patients ranged in age from 15 to 34 years (mean age = 25.4 years). Results: All cases were followed up for 3-12 months with satisfactory results, indicated by helix and scapha of similar color. No hypertrophic scarring was reported. Conclusions: The use of postauricular advancement flap, combined with ipsilateral conchal cartilage graft, is an effective way to repair partial helix defects, and a second procedure may be necessary to achieve a symmetrical cranioauricular angle. (c) 2014 British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.