10. Adjustable Prototype

To determine the best location of the reconstructed ear, the prototype wax positioner needed to adjust on the patient’s head, yet lock into the contours of the patient’s auricular defect. To accomplish both functions, the prototype was made in two parts: (1) the baseplate, that keyed into the patient’s unique skin contours, and (2) the ear sculpture, that easily adjusted on the baseplate. The wax ear sculpture and baseplate were carefully separated from the cast. The photographs show the adjustable design of the prototype baseplate and ear sculpture.