Ear Reconstruction: Here Are 10 Myths Busted

Microtia is the technical name of a congenital ear deformity

. Micro means "small" so the word is translated to mean "small ear". Children born with this deformity have a good chance of reconstruction and repair with the latest technology in ear reconstruction techniques. In this article, we bust ten myths about Microtia and the reconstruction of the ear.

Myth #1: Children born with Microtia are deaf. This is false. The inner ear, which is responsible for hearing, develops at a different time during gestation than the external ear. Since the inner ear is intact, a child with Microtia should still be able to hear well.

Myth #2: It may be easily reconstructed using an artificial skeletal system. This is false. The most successful ear surgeries use human cartilage from the ribcage area to rebuild the internal structure of the newly formed one.

Myth #3: The surgery is done in one lengthy procedure. This is false. This operation is done in two to four stages depending on which method is chosen.

Myth #4: It's best to wait until adulthood to have the ears reconstructed. This is false. The surgery is optimally performed when a child is between six and nine years of age in order to not have their self esteem damaged.

Myth #5: Scientists and physicians have no idea why this occurs. This is false. It is believed that genetics, exposure to toxins or prescription drugs taken during pregnancy are to blame for this birth defect.

Myth #6: This is extremely common. This is false. This birth defect only occurs in one out of every 6,000 to 12,000 births.

Myth #7: It always occurs in both ears. This is false. Approximately 90% of the cases involve only one.

Myth #8: More females than males are affected by this congenital defect. This is false. Males are the predominant victims.

Myth #9: Any physician can reconstruct. This is false. Only plastic surgeons with extensive knowledge and experience in this particular type of reconstructive plastic surgery will be able to appropriately repair it.

Myth #10: A child born with this problem will be saddled with problems his whole life. This is false. With reconstructive surgery performed by a reputable plastic surgeon, the repair will allow it to be both functional and good looking. After all stages of surgery have been successfully completed, the child should certainly go on to live a normal and full life.

by: Abigail Aaronson

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