Optimizing Surgical Procedures of Auricular Keloids According to Their Anatomic Morphological Features

Background: Aesthetic surgical reconstruction of auricular keloids is still a conundrum. This study introduces our experiences in analyzing the anatomic morphological features of auricular keloids, and devising optimized surgical procedures accordingly. Methods: A total of 129 ears with auricular keloids were classified and operated. All patients were followed up for at least 12 months. Results: According to their anatomic positions, auricular keloids were divided into 3 Groups (A, B, and C). The morphological features of keloids were further interpreted according to Chang-Park classification of earlobe keloids. The authors optimized surgical procedures according to the anatomic morphological features from a range of surgical techniques. The recurrence rate of Group C was statistically higher than Group A and B. There was no significant difference in recurrence rate between keloids treated with “primary suture” and “filleted flaps.” Conclusions: According to the anatomic positions and morphological features of auricular keloids, we could conveniently devise optimized surgical strategies to obtain aesthetic reconstruction of auricular keloids.