Salvage of suboptimal results in a reconstructed ear: nonsurgical reshaping with triamcinolone.

BACKGROUND: Ear reconstruction with autologous tissues and creating a natural-appearing ear is a difficult, multistage surgical procedure. Problems, such as a thick skin or an inadequate cartilage-flap relationship, may cause obliteration of the framework details. A nonsurgical technique to improve auricular definition is described.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-six patients with reconstructed ears due to inadequate auricular definition were enrolled in the study. To achieve a better auricular shape, triamcinolone acetonide injections up to 4 sessions were applied. Results of injections were evaluated by improvement of ear contours, quality of detail, frequency of injections, and complications. In addition, histopathologic studies were carried out in 8 patients.

RESULTS: The results were satisfactory. Significant recovery was observed in auricular definition in all patients. There were no major complications observed as a result of the use of steroids during the long follow-up period, suggesting that our technique was safe.

CONCLUSIONS: The solution to unfavorable results of a primary auricular reconstruction generally requires extremely difficult and challenging procedures. In selected patients, triamcinolone injections may be a remedy and may be helpful in avoiding complex surgical procedures.