Microtia Surgery for Ear Deformities

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Microtia Surgery for Ear Deformities Microtia is a birth deformity of the ear characterized by a missing or malformed outer ear. Children born with this congenital condition have a varying degree of malformations ranging from just a small ear to the complete absence of the ear.

Though not a life-threatening disorder, it causes facial deformities and hearing problems. A plastic surgeon who is experienced in ear reconstruction surgery can provide optimal results, enabling the child to lead a normal life.

Microtia Reconstruction Surgery can resolve the following conditions: 

Grade 1, a condition with detectable ear structures and external auditory canal.

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Grade 2 in which external ear canal is blocked to cause conductive hearing loss.

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In Grade 3 in which a vestige part of external ear is visible and in most cases, external ear canal and ear drum are absent.

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Grade 4, the most severe condition where the external ear is completely absent (anotia).

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www.hpcsurgery.com The most common procedure for reconstructing the ear is rib cartilage graft reconstruction. A CT scan is first performed to understand the nature and extent of the condition. This surgical procedure usually involves two steps. In the first step, the cartilage is extracted from the ribs, carved, molded, and reshaped to resemble a natural ear. This cartilage is then placed under the skin where the ear should naturally be. The skin will gradually take the shape of the cartilage framework to form a full ear. The next stage is four months after the first surgery. By this time, the ear would have healed completely and would be able to withstand another surgical intervention. The ear that lies flat against the head is raised to a natural position with the help of a skin graft and a small block of cartilage placed in a pocket under the skin. This procedure helps to restore the natural facial appearance of the child.

This surgery is usually performed when the child reaches the age of six or seven. By this time, the child will have sufficient cartilage for the reconstruction of the ear.

Advantages 

Safe surgical procedure

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Uses natural body tissue instead of prosthesis

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Newly created ear grows naturally as the child grows

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Only small chest incision is needed to extract the cartilage

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No limitations of sports and normal activities

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New cartilaginous ear can last a lifetime

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Improves appearance and self-esteem of the child

Microtia surgery can be performed with minimal risk and complications by plastic surgeons specialized in microsurgical head reconstruction. Choose a board-certified plastic surgeon providing treatment in an AAAASF-accredited center surgical center.

Only a skilled surgeon can provide optimal results with minimal surgical trauma.

Having realistic expectations about the results is important.

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