It is a reconstructive surgery where a new pinna is created using the rib cartilage of the patient or synthetic implant. For some patients, prosthetics may be placed, which resemble a normal ear in form and function. Rib cartilage grafting is the most used approach to treat severe grades of microtia and is typically performed around 6-7 years of age. It involves multiple surgeries and so is performed in stages. This decides the process of ear reconstruction and ear surgery cost in India.

Here’s how microtia ear surgery with rib cartilage is generally performed:

First, the patient is anesthetized, and then an incision is made in the chest, spanning above the 6th, 7th, and 8th ribs, to harvest the rib's cartilage. The harvested cartilage is meticulously carved into a new ear framework and placed in a pocket created on the side of the head in the area where the ear is supposed to be.

After the placement, its surroundings are covered by fascia, skin flap, and other tissues. All of this is a part of the first stage of ear reconstruction. The next stage is all about refining the shape and position of the ear framework for which skin grafts may be used.

The surgery technique employed and the number of stages of ear reconstruction varies depending on the microtia severity and the surgeon’s preference.

Perks Microtia Ear Surgery

• Microtia ear surgery has many perks. It can help improve the appearance of ear and facial aesthetics
• Enhances one’s esteem and confidence while reducing social stigma and teasing
• In case, the ear malformation has affected the ear canal and led to impaired hearing, an ear reconstruction can help normalize hearing.

That’s only when the external ear is underdeveloped. If hearing loss is severe, bone-anchored hearing aids or cochlear implants may be considered.

For the best ear reconstruction or ear surgery in India, consider Dr. Parag Telang, a renowned facial plastic and microtia surgeon at The Microtia Trust.