Tumbling cartilage flap and free auricular composite tissue transplantation for correcting mild and moderate forms of constricted ear.

Objective: To report a new surgical approach that results in a natural size and contour of the external malformed constricted ear.

Methods: A total of 62 consecutive patients with constricted ear underwent surgery between July 1, 2005, and December 31, 2007. Depending on the features and severity of the deformity, the methods of tumbling cartilage flap (CF), free auricular composite graft, or a combination of these 2 techniques were applied.

Results: A total of 45 patients were treated with the method of tumbling CF. Twelve were treated with an auricular composite graft from the contralateral ear, and in 5 patients a combination of the 2 methods was used. In all cases, there was an improvement in the size, shape, and symmetry of the ears, and most patients were satisfied with the outcome. Complications were rare, and there was no donor site deformity.

Conclusions: The technique of tumbling CF and free auricular composite graft provides a simple and promising treatment for constricted ears. Furthermore, this technique is easy to apply with a predictable good outcome.