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Arch Facial Plast Surg. 2004;6:202-203.

	Since this article does not have an abstract, we have provided the first 150 words of the full text and any section headings.

INTRODUCTION

Conchal cartilage grafts are widely used in cosmetic and reconstructive facial surgery. We present the technique of auricular flap closure with 4-0 plain gut suture on a straight-cutting nasal septal needle in a through-and-through quilting fashion. No drains, bolsters, conforming packing, or compression dressings were placed. Twenty-five patients have undergone this closure technique by the senior author. Sutures resorb at approximately 2 weeks. No hematomas, skin necrosis, infections, keloids, or suture extrusion resulted. One complication—a 3-mm skin perforation at the midconchal bowl—was repaired in the office and subsequently healed well. Compared with bolsters and Penrose drains, the quilting technique offers a less painful postoperative course, neater intraoperative closure, no bulky dressing, and the ability to shower on the second postoperative day. Furthermore, absorbable sutures eliminate the need for suture or bolster removal.

Conchal cartilage grafts are widely used in cosmetic and reconstructive facial surgery. There are many options for closure . . . [Full Text of this Article]

METHODS

RESULTS

COMMENT

Corinne E. Horn, MD, MS; Carlo P. Honrado, MD
New York

Maurice M. Khosh, MD
Department of Otolaryngology—Head & Neck Surgery
Columbia University Medical Center
180 Fort Washington Ave, Harkness Pavilion, Eighth Floor
New York, NY 10032
(e-mail: mkhosh@aol.com)