Traumatic Ear Reconstruction

 

649. <Traumatic Ear Reconstruction>

The ear, though often overlooked, is a delicate structure. When trauma strikes—through accidents, piercings, or contact sports—its form and function can be irreversibly altered.

From minor lacerations to severe cartilage loss, traumatic ear reconstruction involves precise suturing, local flaps, skin grafts, or even costal cartilage grafting to restore the ear’s shape.

Contact sports like wrestling or rugby can lead to repeated hematomas between the cartilage and skin. When untreated, this causes fibrosis and deformation—commonly known as cauliflower ear. If addressed early (within 2–3 days), simple drainage and compression can prevent long-term damage. But once hardened and chronically deformed, only surgical reconstruction remains.

Some athletes embrace cauliflower ear as a badge of honor. Yet many, later in life, wish to return to their original ear shape—requiring removal of fibrotic tissue, and at times, full reconstruction using rib cartilage, fascia, and scalp tissue.

Beyond aesthetics, trauma to the auricle affects how we perceive sound.

Ear reconstruction isn’t just about restoring form—it’s about honoring the ear’s quiet role in how we hear and are heard.

Traumatic ear reconstruction is the art of reawakening our respect for something we rarely notice—until it’s lost.

– 649mm Growing Pine Tree-

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