How Ear Reconstruction Can Be Used to Treat Microtia

Ear reconstruction is now helping lots of people (especially kids) live normal lives. A deformity of the ears is very noticeable and can even cause hearing problems. Ear reconstruction is an option that is perfect for treating microtia.

What Is Microtia?

Microtia is a deformity of the ears. It usually appears as small or oddly shaped ears. It could even be the absence of ears altogether. This condition can occur in only one or on both sides of the head, but it usually occurs on only one side. Not only does it look strange, microtia can also affect your hearing. The affected side may not have any hearing capacity at all, or it may be greatly diminished. Usually, the side of the head that doesn't have microtia has normal hearing. It's just the outer part that's usually affected.

What Is Ear Reconstruction?

Ear reconstruction refers to any number of different procedures designed to fix the deformities. Ear reconstruction surgery has both the benefit of improving your appearance and also helping you to hear better. It is often performed on children, since it is easiest to correct the problem in younger people. It also allows them to fully enjoy their childhood without a deformity causing them self-esteem problems.

How Is Ear Reconstruction Surgery Performed?

There are a couple of different approaches your doctor might choose to take. When you first go to see them, you'll have a consultation. This is where you discuss with them what you'd like done, and where they answer any questions you might have. The operation's success depends on how realistic your expectations for it are, and this is where the doctor tells you what you should expect.

Sometimes, they recommend using prosthesis. These are fake ears that are custom made to fit your head. They may be connected by either using clips or magnets. Modern prosthesis looks quite realistic; you have to look very closely in good lighting in order to see that it's not real. This is an easier procedure since it doesn't require actual surgery, so it's recommended for younger kids.

Another option is rib cartilage graft reconstruction. Inside the ears is cartilage, which is like a lighter type of bone and gives it its shape. Doctors can now take a small bit of cartilage from the rib (hence the name) or another body part and use this to reform the ear. This is a more complicated procedure but it gets great results, so it is growing in popularity. However, it can't be done on very young children; it is recommended for kids age 10 or older. Part of the reason it's more difficult is that it actually requires two procedures - the removal of cartilage from the rib, and its placement in the ears.

Ear reconstruction can treat microtia and get you normal, healthy ears, but the procedure is not for everyone. Talk it over with a qualified physician and see if it's the right thing for you. You don't have to suffer the rest of your life because of a congenital deformity.