Should You Address Microtia? Potential Complications Following Ear Reconstruction

Microtia is an ear deformity acquired at birth

. Although hearing is usually normal, unless accompanied by another deformity, the appearance of the ear can cause great emotional distress and lack of confidence.

There are a few different types of microtia, but the most common is called grade three, which means that the only visible part of the external ear is a small fleshy fold. Fortunately, this grade of microtia can also be successfully corrected through cosmetic surgery with natural results.

Although microtia corrective surgery can be performed at a very young age, it is safer and wiser to wait until the patient is at least nine-years-old, which is when the ears fully mature in size. In some cases a cartilage graft may be necessary to achieve the best results, which will add extra recovery time to the procedure.

It's important to remember that although young, children tend to recover much sooner than adults undergoing the same procedure. By choosing to undergo cosmetic reconstruction surgery, it can also help prevent social problems before they happen.

If microtia is left untreated, although not a danger itself, it can cause other complications. Simple daily tasks, such as wearing glasses, can become impossible and embarrassing. Having your hair cut or pulling it back can also reveal the deformity, which can be distressing.

In more severe cases, microtia can cause problems in other areas of the body including the kidneys, jaw, and overall physical balance. Even if you make the decision for you or a child not to undergo cosmetic surgery, you should have the problem regularly examined to ensure it is not affecting other areas.

Microtia reconstructive surgery is a fairly safe procedure with few risks. There are usually four stages to the procedure, which must be undertaken over the course of a few months. The most dangerous part of the operation is harvesting cartilage from the ribs, if necessary. Infection, bleeding, and prolonged healing are all potential complications that can result; however, more often than not the most common complaint is dissatisfaction with the cosmetic results.

Although primarily performed for cosmetic purposes, ear reconstruction can sometimes address minor hearing problems that may have resulted from the condition. Surgeons may work to fix the inner ear, or more commonly, and effectively, implant a hearing aid.

Operating on the inner cannel can be dangerous and is often not worth the minimal improvement it may provide. This is especially true if microtia only occurs in one ear, in which case a child can quickly and easily adapt to any slight hearing problems.

Many insurance companies cover all or partial costs of microtia surgery; although you should check with the company to ensure you are covered. Take your time to choose a skilled and well-qualified surgeon. You also want to choose one that you feel confident and comfortable with as you will be making multiple visits in order to complete the procedure over the course of a few months.

by: Abigail Aaronson

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