Traumatic Cleft Earlobe Repair: Using a Double Triangular Flap for Differently Sized Components on Either Side of the Cleft

Abstract

Numerous techniques, including double opposing Z-plasty, have been introduced to repair traumatic cleft earlobes and break the linear scar. Even with multiple operative methods available for repairing traumatic cleft earlobe, notable scar contractures and dimpling of the earlobe border remain in some cases. The authors noted patients with different sized components on either side of the traumatized earlobe. For these patients, the authors utilized epithelialized skin to elevate two small triangular flaps from the larger component of the cleft earlobe and transferred them to the smaller component to augment the volume and elongate the scar. There was minimal tissue loss and dissection. Five patients with an asymmetrical secondary cleft earlobe with different sized components underwent lobe repair via this method, and there was no scar contracture or dimpling after at least 6 months of follow-up.

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