Will TSF require ear reconstruction? [View all]

https://plasticsurgerykey.com/ear-reconstruction-4/

The ear is a complex structure whose lateral surface provides minimal loose tissue for side-to-side or flap repair. The skin on this side is bound down to a convoluted cartilaginous structure with convex and concave surfaces. As such, repair on the lateral surface is usually limited to second intention healing, skin graft, or a flap from the medial pinna or other nearby cosmetic unit (i.e., preauricular cheek or postauricular scalp). The skin on the medial surface of the ear is a little looser and may provide adequate tissue for side-to-side or flap repair of small- to medium-sized defects, although flap repair frequently recruits tissue from the postauricular sulcus area. The helical rim provides the characteristic shape to the pinna, and reconstruction is most successful if the shape, size, and appearance of this contiguous structure is maintained. Fortunately, for many defects on the helical rim, the inferior helical rim and lobule provide an adequate reservoir of loose tissue from which to fashion a local flap repair.


Read more and view photos from simple to complex closures at the link