LAUSR

wound management, and decreased complications from reconstructive procedures. Because the helical rim is a free margin, there is a higher risk of wound contraction during the granulation process. When patients choose granulation, the use of a rigid external bolster may provide structural support to decrease wound contraction and improve the final cosmetic result. Even with a rigid bolster, delayed wound contracture remains a concern, however, and it may not be advisable in patients with higher aesthetic demands. The material expense of this intervention was minimal because the cost of the external bolster was the cost of the suture used to attach it, since the plastic came from the sterile suture pack itself.