Z-plasty for Tanzer type IIb constricted ears

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Otolaryngology
• Pediatric Surgery

Background:

• Constricted ear, specifically Tanzer type IIb, presents a significant cosmetic and functional challenge.
• Existing surgical techniques for ear reconstruction have varying degrees of success and potential complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe and evaluate the Z-plasty technique for correcting Tanzer type IIb constricted ears.
• To assess the efficacy and patient satisfaction with this surgical approach.

Main Methods:

• The Z-plasty technique was applied to six patients with Tanzer type IIb constricted ears.
• Procedures included lengthening the upper ear pole, unfurling cupping deformities, creating an antihelix with Mustarde sutures, and employing a "mastoid hitch" to prevent recurrence.

Main Results:

• All six patients reported high satisfaction with the aesthetic outcome.
• No recurrence of the constricted ear deformity was observed after a mean follow-up of 1.5 years.
• The Z-plasty technique successfully addressed both lengthening and unfurling aspects of the deformity.

Conclusions:

• The Z-plasty technique is a safe and effective method for correcting Tanzer type IIb constricted ears.
• The combined approach, including the "mastoid hitch," provides durable results and high patient satisfaction.
• Further comparison with alternative techniques highlights the advantages of Z-plasty in specific cases.