Correction of Ear Lobule Deformity Using Diamond Shaped Flap

Hyder Ali, Bushra Zulfiqar, Mujtuba Pervez

Abstract

Objective

To determine the outcome of diamond shaped flap as an option for reconstruction of ear lobule deformities.

Study design

Descriptive case series.

Place & Duration of study

Department of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Dow University of Health Sciences and Dr. Ruth KM Pfau Civil Hospital Karachi, from January 2015 to December 2017.

Methodology

Diamond shaped flap was used to reconstruct the soft tissue deformity of the ear lobule. The outcome of the recipient and donor sites were assessed along with the aesthetic appearance of the ear. Both male and female patients with ages 15-60 years having ear lobule defects due to congenital or acquired deformities (trauma, human bites) were included. Patients with previously scarred donor site (cheek and mastoid region) were excluded. Data was collected on a pre designed form and descriptive statistics were used to present data.

Results

A total of 15 diamond shaped flaps were performed for the reconstruction of ear lobule defect. There were 11 females and 4 males with age between 15 - 60 years (mean 38.4 year). Congenital ear deformity was present in 11 cases, 2 had history of trauma and in 2 patients deformity occurred due to human bite. Aesthetic outcome was good in 10 patients and fair in 4 patients. Flap dehiscence occurred in one patient and donor site skin dehiscence in 2 patients.

Conclusion

Diamond shaped flap is an excellent option for reconstruction of ear lobule having good aesthetic appearance with acceptable lobule shape and skin color along with primary closure of the donor site without any major complications.

Key words

Ear lobule, Diamond shaped flap, Rhomboid flap, Ear lobule reconstruction, Ear deformity.