Composite and free cartilage grafting

The nasal ala and helical rim of the ear are common sites for the development of skin neoplasms. Removal of skin cancers from these aesthetically delicate areas may leave defects that free skin grafts alone may not adequately repair. The contractural forces of scarring within and around the skin graft during healing may produce elevation or notching of the rim and may lead to functional compromise. The use of a composite graft or the inclusion of a free cartilage graft in conjunction with a skin graft or flap repair can provide structural support, which may help to prevent undesirable outcomes. This article focuses on the use of composite or free cartilage grafts harvested from the ear to repair nasal alar or helical rim defects within a single surgical session. Preoperative considerations, surgical technique, and postsurgical complications are discussed.