Based on the severity of the ear deformity and the presence/absence of outer ear structures, microtia is classified into 4 grades. Based on the type of grade of microtia ear, the ear reshaping surgery in England is performed by Dr. Parag Telang to correct the concern.

• Grade 1 features a small auricle with all subunits present, identifiable, and potentially minorly altered in shape or form.

• In Grade 2, some of the external ear features are absent and the ear canal may be constricted.

• In Grade 3, only the earlobe is present, rest is missing. The last grade is called anotia where the external ear is absent.

To repair microtia of any severity, facial plastic surgeons recommend ear reconstruction or placing of a prosthetic ear. In this blog, we want you to have a complete idea of microtia reconstruction surgery using cartilage. If you are still confused about whether to go for it, we would like to grab your attention to microtia reconstruction surgery using cartilage benefits and procedure details so that you end up making a well-informed decision.

What is Microtia Reconstruction Surgery?

Microtia reconstruction surgery is a stand-alone, surgical repair of microtia wherein a new ear is constructed. The new ear resembles a natural ear in appearance and function.

What are Different Approaches to Microtia Reconstruction Surgery?

There are two categories of microtia reconstruction surgery. A surgeon helps decide the surgical approach and technique to help a child with microtia achieve the desired outcome.

• Autologous ear reconstruction- In this approach, the surgeon harvests cartilage pieces from the patient’s ribs and carefully sculpts and joins all pieces to form the new ear. The new ear is pinned to the side of the head underneath the skin with a gentle suction, in a pocket, in line with another ear. In the case of bilateral microtia, the ears are placed and bedded into the areas where they are naturally supposed to be. With the support of the patient’s body tissue, the new ear grows along with other body parts.

The surgeon performs another surgery to elevate the new ear and make it protrude as a natural ear. Sometimes, additional surgeries are conducted to adjust the appearance of the new ear.

• Alloplastic ear reconstruction- This approach involves the use of synthetic implants like porous polyethylene implants which are shaped to match the desired form of the ear, thereby creating a new ear. It is preferred when either the cartilage is insufficient or the patient wants a different material for a new ear.

Why is Microtia Mostly Corrected Using Rib Cartilage?

A microtia ear reconstruction surgery using cartilage generally is performed to:

• Correct congenital ear deformity- Microtia ear is a birth defect that the ear reconstruction surgery aims to fix and restore a more natural-looking ear.

• Enhance facial aesthetics- A reconstructed ear that resembles a natural ear can improve overall facial appearance. The surgery enhances self-esteem and reduces psychological stress.

• Restore hearing (in some cases)- Microtia of grade 2 and onwards is associated with conductive hair loss. In such cases, an ear reconstruction with aural atresia repair involving implantation of a bone-anchored hearing aid can help improve hearing.

Often, microtia ear reconstruction is performed using rib cartilage due to the following reasons:

• Natural integration and durability- Rib cartilage is strong and durable. It can best integrate with surrounding tissues and provide a stable framework for the reconstructed ear. The ear reconstructed with rib cartilage can keep its form, shape, and appearance maintained over time.

• Minimal risk of rejection and infection- As the rib cartilage for ear reconstruction is taken from the patient’s own body, there is a reduced chance of rejection and infection possible with the use of synthetic implants.

• Creation of realistic, aesthetically pleasing ear structure- The cartilage taken from the 6th, 7th, and 8th ribs can be meticulously shaped and 3-D sculpted. A qualified, skilled, and experienced surgeon can carve and mold the rib cartilage just like the ridges, curves, and indentations of the normal ear.

• Early microtia repair- Microtia reconstruction surgery using rib cartilage is typically performed on children who are aged 6 to 8 years old, having fully formed ears and sufficient cartilage. This allows early intervention for microtia and the new ear to develop alongside the remaining body.

• A multistage process- Microtia reconstruction surgery using rib cartilage is performed in stages with the first stage involving cartilage harvesting and ear framework creation and placement while subsequent stages involve elevation of the ear and its fine tuning. Thus, the patient gets the best time for healing and optimal results.

Seeking For Ear Reconstruction Using Cartilage?

At The Microtia Trust, we have Dr. Parag Telang, a top-tier plastic surgeon with decades of experience in microtia reconstruction and ear reshaping surgery in England. Schedule your consultation with him today for details!