[Use of autologous ear cartilage in eyelid surgery]

Autologous ear cartilage is relatively easy to procure in suitable form and sufficient quantity. At the donor site, there are, as a rule, no complications to be expected. Autologous ear cartilage without conjunctival coverage is of good use for replacing and lengthening the inner layer of an eyelid, not only to reconstruct large eyelid-defects, but also to give additional support and length. The cartilage graft will grow on well, provided the wound is well vascularized. This must not be expected with scarring or poor blood perfusion. The brittleness of the cartilage demands an adapted technique. Precautions to protect the cornea and to prevent adhesions in the fornix are to be taken.