Reconstruction of ear helix: use of self-tubing pedicle flap.

The tube pedicle flap is useful in reconstruction of an absent ear helix. However, immediate tubing of the flap may result in vascular compromise. By elevating a bipedicle flap in the postauricular region and shielding it with a silicone sheet, it is possible to allow the flap to assume a tubular shape while preventing adherence to the underlying suture line. Once mature, the flap maintains both a cylindrical shape and a sufficiently thin external diameter to provide adequate restoration of the ear helix.