title: Advanced reconstruction of the ear: a framework for successful wound closure.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The ear is a complex and intricate feature of the human face in which reconstruction after oncologic excision is predicated on the complete removal of skin cancer. Reconstructive strategies are based on an understanding of the hierarchy of aesthetic concerns for the ear.
  
  
  METHODS
  Review of the reconstructive strategies for reconstruction of the ear.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The 2 most important characteristics of the ear are its symmetrical projection from the head and the smooth curvature of the helix. With this in mind, the reconstructive plan must begin from the "inside out" with assessment of the cartilaginous frameworks followed by the cutaneous defect.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  A reconstructive strategy that takes into account the hierarchy of aesthetic concerns for defects of the ear will optimize cosmesis, function, and patient's satisfaction.
authors.affiliation: Departments of Dermatology, Otolaryngology and Plastic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
authors.forename: David G
authors.initials: DG
authors.lastname: Brodland
mesh_terms: D002356:Cartilage / Q000637:transplantation; D054644:Ear Auricle / Q000601:surgery; D004428:Ear Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery; D004431:Ear, External / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000601:surgery*; D004954:Esthetics; D006801:Humans; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures / Q000379:methods*; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery; D013524:Surgical Flaps; D013536:Suture Techniques; D016896:Treatment Outcome