Microtia -- Treatment Options for This Little Known Condition

Microtia is a condition that many parents learn about when their child is developing or even after he or she is born. They are frightened by the condition because, unlike other types of conditions, this one is not widely understood. However, this condition can often be improved upon, if you turn to the right professionals for help. In many situations, individuals can find that this condition is treatable or can be improved upon to some degree, but keep in mind that every situation is different.

What Is It?

Microtia is a condition in which the external portion of the ear is abnormally shaped. In some cases, the external portion of the ear is missing altogether. This condition can happen on just one side of the head or it can happen on both, which is known as unilateral for the former and bilateral for the second. It is much more common for it to occur in just one ear rather than in both. Up to 90 percent of all patients who have the condition have just one ear affected.

What is important to know is that some patients may still have an ear canal in place, whereas others do not. If there is no ear canal, this is called aural atresia. Many patients who suffer from microtia also suffer from aural atresia. If this is the case, the patient is unlikely to have any hearing in that ear, though he or she could have normal hearing on the other side of the head. Some patients who have the condition in both ears will still have minimal hearing, but they often require the use of a hearing aid in order to hear well.

Many times, those who have this condition have significant deformities in the construction of the inner ear. These structural abnormalities may include a missing eardrum or missing or incomplete development of the middle ear bones. These structures are critical for proper hearing, though. It is because of these missing or abnormal developments in the ear that leads to hearing loss or problems.

Fixing the Problem

Those who suffer from microtia often can see some relief from the lack of hearing and from the physical absence of a normal looking ear. However, every situation is different. You will need to work closely with a doctor and cosmetic surgeon to determine what solutions are available for your condition. In some situations, by reforming or improving the outer and inner ear, the individual will regain improved hearing and that can make a world of difference in the quality of life. In other cases, the individual's deformities may be severe enough that no improvements can be made.

If you suffer from microtia, it is best to turn to a professional who specializes in treatments of this condition to learn what your options are. For many, the fact is there are options for improving your condition.