Partial auricular reconstruction.

The authors summarize current methods for reconstructing partial auricular defects resulting from trauma, neoplasm, or congenital defects. They also review the anatomy and embryology of the ear as this is critical for proper reconstruction. Defects of the auricle are divided into upper-third, middle-third, and lower-third defects. Methods of total auricular reconstruction are also briefly discussed as these methods can provide more superior reconstruction than partial techniques in select cases.