One-Stage Reconstruction of a Concha-Type Microtia Using Remnant Tissue

Abstract

Microtia can be mild or severe. Although traditional reconstruction is suitable for classic microtia, reconstruction with minimal morbidity may be advantageous in selected cases. A 36-year-old man presented with concha-type microtia in which the cephalic portion of the helix and the helical root were absent and a relatively prominent antihelix was connected to the tragus. We exposed the buried helical cartilage and reinforced it with a V-Y advancement flap from the scalp. The most prominent portion of the helical rim was reconstructed using the tragus, and a skin tag was used to reconstruct the tragus. There were no complications and the patient was satisfied with the appearance of the reconstructed ear. Reconstruction with remnant tissue is not possible in all cases and the result can be unsatisfactory. However, it can be accomplished in 1 or 2 stages with minimal morbidity and no donor site scars, and the reconstructed ear has normal sensation.