Subtotal ear reconstruction for correction of type 3 constricted ears.

Constricted ears are characterized by four features: (a) lop deformity, (b) protrusion, (c) low ear position, and (d) decreased ear size. These deformities, resulting from inadequate length of the helix, have been described by Tanzer (1975) as a purse-string closure of the ear. Constricted ears are classified into types 1, 2, and 3 according to the severity of the deformity. Type 3 constricted ear, the most severe, with decreased size and loss of the upper half of the normal ear contour, is classified currently as a mild form of microtia. Therefore, autogenous rib cartilage was used to reconstruct the affected ear much as in correction of microtia. The expanded skin flap in the mastoid area was used to reconstruct auricles for 14 patients with type 3 constricted ear in the authors' center from 2001 to 2004. All the patients were satisfied with the final results. Therefore, the authors conclude that their operative technique is practical and reliable.