Microtia Treatment: Medical and Aesthetic Reconstruction
Microtia is a congenital condition in which the external ear (auricle) does not fully develop or is completely absent. The condition varies in severity, ranging from mild cases where the auricle is misshapen, to more severe cases in which the ear is entirely missing. Microtia is often associated with other issues, such as the absence of the ear canal, which can lead to conductive hearing loss.
Degrees of Microtia Severity
Grade I: The auricle is present but small and underdeveloped.
Grade II: The auricle is more malformed, with an incomplete basic structure.
Grade III: The auricle is almost entirely absent, with only remnants of tissue in place.
How Does Microtia Affect the Patient?
Beyond the aesthetic implications of an underdeveloped or missing ear, microtia has a significant impact on hearing. The absence of an ear canal or a functional auricle leads to conductive hearing loss, which can affect communication and overall quality of life. In addition, facial asymmetry can result in low self-esteem and social discomfort.
Personalized Care for Every Patient
Each microtia treatment plan is tailored to the individual needs of the patient. The approach combines advanced medical expertise with a deep sensitivity to cosmetic concerns, and is often managed through collaboration between ENT specialists, plastic surgeons, and hearing rehabilitation professionals.
Treatment Options for Microtia:
Hearing Improvement Solutions:
One of the primary solutions for patients with microtia is the use of specialized hearing devices such as BAHA (Bone Anchored Hearing Aid), which transmits sound directly through the skull bones and significantly enhances hearing.
Auricular Reconstruction Surgery:
In many cases, plastic surgery is used to reconstruct the auricle. This can be done using:
Autologous tissue: typically cartilage harvested from the patient’s ribs.
Custom-made synthetic implants, adapted to the patient’s anatomy.
The type of reconstruction is chosen based on the severity of the condition, the patient’s age, and their personal needs.
When Is Surgery Performed?
Auricular reconstruction is usually performed at a young age, once the ear has reached sufficient maturity – typically between ages 6 and 10. However, the exact timing depends on the patient’s medical status and individual needs.
Looking for professional care in ear, nose, and throat
Dr. Tamar Tovi Porat provides surgical treatments and professional consultations with a warm and patient-centered approach – for both children and adults.
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