Freestyle perforator flap in earlobe reconstruction

BACKGROUND: In earlobe reconstruction, it is a challenging task to find a simple one-stage technique that is applicable to the variable configurations of defects and that results in a longstanding naturally appearing earlobe. METHODS: In this article, we present a perforator-based flap design for earlobe reconstruction with preoperative perforator detection by pencil doppler to ensure the maximum vascularity of the used flap. Thirty cases of earlobe reconstruction were performed in the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Tanta University in the period from July 2015 to July 2019 using the technique described in this article. RESULTS: None of our cases developed necrosis of the flaps. The mean result for the aesthetic evaluation of our cases was 4.7 and the mean patient satisfaction was 4.8 where the maximum score was 5. CONCLUSION: freestyle perforator flap with preoperative doppler perforator detection is a safe and reliable method of earlobe reconstruction. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12893-022-01846-y.