A Modified Technique for Repairing the Defective Type Congenital Earlobe Cleft

BACKGROUND Congenital earlobe clefts, particularly the defective type with severe tissue deficiency, present unique reconstructive challenges requiring specialized techniques. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a preformed, inverted, and anastomosed subauricular tongue-shaped flap technique for treating defective-type congenital earlobe clefts. MATERIALS AND METHODS Twenty patients (12 male and 8 female patients; aged 8–34 years) with unilateral defective-type congenital earlobe clefts underwent surgical correction using a tongue-shaped flap from the subauricular region. Outcomes were evaluated using a 15-point scoring system by 2 independent surgeons. RESULTS The mean assessment score was 13.4 (range: 10–15), with substantial interrater reliability (κ = 0.85). Eighteen patients (90%) achieved good outcomes, whereas 2 (10%) had fair outcomes. Minor complications occurred in 2 patients (10%). Patient satisfaction was high, with 85% reporting being “very satisfied” with overall appearance. CONCLUSION The preformed, inverted, and anastomosed subauricular tongue-shaped flap technique provides a reliable method for repairing defective-type congenital earlobe clefts, offering natural appearance and minimal scarring.