A case report on implant retained auricular prosthesis: Bringing back hope and smile.

Abstract

Long-term success of a facial prosthesis mainly depends on retention. Most articles relate tissue health to long-term success, not retention. Anatomic undercuts, skin adhesives and implants are important factors to provide sufficient retention. Extra oral implant retained prosthesis have been proven to be a predictable treatment option for maxillofacial rehabilitation. This case report describes the clinical and laboratory procedures for fabricating implant-retained auricular prosthesis using magnets for retention. It describes how an initial planning for implant placement with Hader-bar retentive system was opted out due to intra-surgical situation. The use of craniofacial implants for retention of extra oral prosthesis, such as ears, offers excellent support and retentive abilities and improves a patient's appearance and quality of life. It has been shown in clinical and biomechanical studies that two implants are sufficient to retain an auricular prosthesis. Judicial treatment planning and implant placement according to the available remaining structures is prudent for a successful prosthesis.