Ear Reconstruction

Microtia is a congenital deformity resulting from the failure in the development of the external ear apparatus which comprises the ear lobule, auricle (helix), tragus, and choncal depression. It could result from multiple factors such as viral infection, genetic predisposition, and anatomic deformation. The condition usually causes psychological inferiority in afflicted patients and should be addressed as early as childhood. The earliest time when ear deformity could be corrected is five years of age. Treatment options and possible complications should be discussed extensively with the surgeon. It usually requires a series of operations, with each procedure done four to six months apart. Initially, it would involve the creation of the cartilage framework with inset in a subcutaneous pocket behind the rudimentary ear. This is followed by lobule flap rotation, or elevation of the cartilage framework. The last stage of the procedure is choncal deepening, or tragal reconstruction, which results in a more natural ear. All these procedures would require hospital admission and are done under general anesthesia. Other specialty services such as those from a pediatrician and pediatric anesthesiologist may be required during the admission.