Tissue expansion in reconstruction of acquired auricular defects.

Over the past 10 years, tissue expansion has gradually become accepted as a useful adjunct to ear reconstruction with an autologous framework. The advantage of expanded tissue in these cases has been the addition of more tissue with similar color, texture, and sensation. In traumatic cases, the creation of well-vascularized tissue allows an improved anterior draping of skin over the cartilaginous framework and production of a well-defined posterior sulcus. Encroachment of hair onto the reconstructed ear is minimized because of the extra tissue produced by expansion. Under favorable conditions, tissue expansion is an acceptable and reliable method for partial or total ear reconstruction.