KPIF was introduced as a single-stage alternative reconstructive option for partial thickness alar defects, completing author's experience with this flap into such a challenging and aesthetically critical anatomic area.

Keloids are a frequent finding after physical trauma. Keloids of the pinna (helix and antihelix) as a complication of ear-piercing are the most difficult cases. Clinicians have tended to avoid the surgical approach, preferring local conservative treatment with corticosteroids or other treatments. We report use of intrakeloid resection and a form-pressure device to treat pinna keloids and avoid recurrence. The purpose is to maintain the form of the folds of the pinna. The recommendation for this therapy is to maintain the pressure at 24-30 mmHg, and the duration of the form-pressure therapy in our patients was about 25 weeks.

The marked benefits of copper application in flap survival in this experimental model may guarantee its clinical application in flaps with questionable viability.