What to Expect after Ear Reconstruction Surgery for Microtia

Microtia Treatment for Cosmetic Enhancement and Restoring Audibility

Microtia ear reconstruction is one of the most effective plastic surgery procedures to rectify abnormalities of the external ear in children. Microtia is a congenital condition in which anomalies are seen in one or both ears. Sometimes due to this abnormality hearing may be obstructed. At the same time, facial symmetry and overall physical appearance are also affected. Two or three consultations prior to the ear reconstruction surgery will provide you with an idea of what to expect after ear reconstruction surgery for microtia.

What Are Ear Reconstruction Surgery Procedures?

Defects with the external ear can be easily recognized through a physical examination. However, ear reconstruction surgery is recommended only when the child reaches the age of six or more. Microtia ear surgery involves different stages. A period of three to six months is provided between two different stages so that the surgical site has properly healed. CT scan is done prior to the ear reconstruction surgery for identifying the defective external and internal ear structures.

• In the first step of microtia surgery, rib cartilage is taken from the child’s body and carved to look like an ear. The perfectly shaped cartilage is then positioned under the skin at the natural location of the ear and it lies flat against the head. Later, the skin takes the shape of the cartilage framework to form a full ear.

• Lifting and contouring of the ear is done in the second phase of the microtia treatment.
  This surgery helps to position the ear in the right place using grafted skin and a small block of cartilage.

Natural cartilage is preferred to artificial materials for ear reconstruction because it can withstand trauma and heal quickly unlike artificial materials. Use of natural cartilage also reduces infection rate after the microtia surgery. A complete rest of 4 months is advisable once all surgical procedures are completed.

Conductive hearing loss is typical in people with microtia. To enable hearing, hearing aids can be used that amplify the sound directly to the bone. Hearing aids available include those that are held against the bone with straps and those that are directly attached to the bone. Most microtia patients are also candidates for the reconstruction of the ear canal. This surgery requires the middle ear space to have air. Surgeons will find out if a patient is a candidate for reconstruction of the ear canal with the help of a CT scan.

Ear Reconstruction Surgery for Microtia – Challenging but Highly Effective

On the whole, ear reconstruction surgery for microtia helps to rebuild the external ear, rectify hearing disabilities and enhance facial appearance. Correction of microtia is a challenging job, so it can be expensive. However, some renowned plastic surgery facilities offer reconstructive surgeries to correct facial deformities in children, regardless of financial resources.

Some complications related to ear reconstruction surgery are infections, lack of evenness between two ears, issues regarding rib cartilage harvest and damage of delicate tissues. But this can be avoided if you seek treatment from a reliable and experienced plastic surgeon specialized in providing microtia surgery. Make sure that the surgeon provides services from an AAAASF accredited plastic surgery center. Adequate information regarding what to expect after ear reconstruction surgery for microtia will help you maintain realistic expectations.