Earlobe defects, particularly those resulting from trauma, pose significant challenges in reconstructive surgery. Traditional methods may require multiple stages or general anesthesia, leading to increased risks and recovery time. This… Click to show full abstract
Earlobe defects, particularly those resulting from trauma, pose significant challenges in reconstructive surgery. Traditional methods may require multiple stages or general anesthesia, leading to increased risks and recovery time. This case report focuses on a single-stage procedure performed under local anesthesia, offering a reliable, aesthetically pleasing, and minimally invasive solution for earlobe defects. A 27-year-old male was referred to the plastic surgery emergency clinic after sustaining a traumatic earlobe avulsion. Following careful assessment of the defect, reconstruction was planned to use a random pattern infra-auricular bilobed transposition flap. The procedure, performed under local anesthesia in an outpatient setting, involved designing the flap from infra-auricular skin to mirror the contralateral ear for anatomical accuracy. The flap was raised in the suprafascial plane, de-epithelialized, and folded for inset, with the donor site closed directly. This approach ensured a tension-free closure and minimal donor site morbidity. The patient experienced an uneventful recovery and reported high satisfaction with the outcome. The random pattern infra-auricular bilobed transposition flap offers a highly effective single-stage solution for earlobe reconstruction. This technique can be safely performed under local anesthesia, making it ideal for outpatient settings and reducing the risks associated with general anesthesia. It provides anatomically accurate and aesthetically pleasing results, as the donor site scar is discreetly hidden in the natural infra-auricular fold. With minimal donor site morbidity and quick recovery, this technique is a favorable option for trauma-induced earlobe defects and this case supports its potential for clinical adoption in similar reconstructive scenarios.
               
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