Concha Type Microtia: New Surgical Incision.

BACKGROUND: Reconstruction of auricles for conchal type microtia is challenging but rewarding. Many plastic surgeons consider autogenous rib cartilage as the standard material for framework fabrication. A healthy, scar-free skin envelope and a defined cartilaginous framework are also critical to successful ear reconstruction.

OBJECTIVES: To improve the outcome of the procedure and minimize complications, a new surgical incision has been advocated.

METHODS: A total of 33 patients who underwent auricular reconstruction of concha-type microtia of various etiologies with the new skin flap incision between 2017 and 2022 were included in the study. Patients' clinical data, detailed surgical techniques, and postoperative care were recorded.

RESULTS: Thirty-three patients were enrolled in the study; 21 were male patients and 12 were female. The mean age in the study was 21.51 years at the time of reconstruction. The side of the microtia was on the right in 17 cases, on the left in 12 cases, and in 4 cases were bilateral, 12 cases were traumatic amputations of the helical component of the auricle, 11 cases were deformities after a burn, while 10 cases were congenital. The mean follow-up time was 17.43 months. A good initial projection without obvious scarring on the anterior surface of the auricle was achieved, with an overall complication rate of 5.42%.

CONCLUSIONS: The surgical incision recommended in the study improves the final aesthetic result of the technique without any additional surgical risk.