Auricular cartilage: harvest technique and versatility in rhinoplasty

Objectives/HypothesisThis study aims to present an improved technique for auricular cartilage harvest that maximizes graft volume while preserving auricular cosmesis. Also discussed is the versatility of auricular cartilage utilization in rhinoplasty.Study DesignA retrospective review of a single surgeon's experience.MethodsAll auricular cartilage harvest and rhinoplasty operations performed by the senior author (CSC) from December 2006 through December 2009 cartilage were reviewed.ResultsTwenty-two cases were identified in which the described technique was used to harvest auricular cartilage for the purpose of functional or aesthetic rhinoplasty. There was sufficient tissue harvested in all operations, and no patients required costal cartilage harvest. Pain at the donor site after surgery was minimal and well controlled with oral medication. There were no donor-site complications and no cases of wound infection.ConclusionsThe proposed technique allows for optimal auricular cartilage harvest. By applying this method, the ear retains the preoperative appearance while the surgeon is able to obtain the largest graft possible. Auricular cartilage is a versatile source of grafting material in primary and secondary rhinoplasty.