Use of the earlobe in auricular reconstruction post tumour extirpation.

The exact location and topography of defects resulting from surgical excision of cutaneous malignancies of the auricle demand a customized approach based on an awareness of locally redundant tissue. With advancing age, the earlobe becomes ideal for this reconstructive role and we describe an earlobe flap created along the longitudinal axis of lobular tissue. This reliable, simple, one-step procedure provides adequate tissue cover for defects of the antitragus and adjoining concha. Flap vascularity is satisfactory and although the overall size of the ear is reduced, this is accepted for a rejuvenated shape and minimal morbidity.