External auricular and facial prosthetics: a collaborative effort of the reconstructive surgeon and anaplastologist.

Surgeons who communicate on a regular basis with an anaplastologist will benefit from having a more comprehensive practice and will be able to provide a broader depth of information to their patients contemplating facial reconstruction. When a prosthesis is chosen as the best option, it is important for the surgeon to understand that early communication with the anaplastologist can lead to improved appearance and function of the prosthesis. When the surgeon and anaplastologist work closely, their efforts complement one another in creating a final reconstructive plan that will ultimately improve the patient's quality of life.