Microtia is a congenital condition that causes one or both of a baby’s ears to improperly develop during the first trimester of pregnancy. It can be as mild as a slightly misshapen external ear, though in many cases it can affect the entire ear structure and prevent the development of the ear canal. Rarely, it can even prevent the external ear from developing at all. Fortunately, microtia repair procedures can improve both the appearance and function of the affected ear(s), and they can be performed at a young age.
Conditions Treated by Microtia Repair
Treating microtia with surgery can have two effects. The primary goal is to create a natural-looking ear with good enough structural integrity to function normally—for example, supporting a pair of glasses that a child has to wear. Whenever possible, the other goal is to enhance the child’s hearing capability. This depends largely on the grade of microtia that the child has been diagnosed with at birth.
How is Microtia of Ear Diagnosed?
Diagnosing microtia in a child can be quite simple, as doctors can see it once the baby has been delivered. Imaging tests can also be used to diagnose microtia and reveal more about its effects beyond the external ear.
How Microtia Repair Procedures are Performed
There are two types of microtia repair procedures that a surgeon could use to correct this condition:
Autologous Reconstruction
This procedure involves using some of the patient’s own rib cartilage to construct a new ear. It can be broken up into several stages:
- Harvesting the rib cartilage
- Shaping the ear’s framework
- Placing the newly constructed ear under the skin
Medpor Reconstruction
An alternative to autologous reconstruction, this procedure uses a synthetic material called Medpor to create the ear framework. Using this biocompatible material eliminates the need to harvest rib cartilage and requires fewer stages to complete than the autologous reconstruction procedure.
Non-Surgical Microtia Repair
Patients who would prefer to avoid surgery or are not candidates for a procedure can instead opt for a custom-made prosthetic ear. These prosthetics can be attached to the head using adhesives or implants and, while they do require regular upkeep, they can quickly create the patient’s desired aesthetic and help improve self-esteem.
Microtia Repair Treatment: What to Expect
While microtia of the ear can be diagnosed at birth, treatments cannot begin right away. A healthcare provider will be able to give personalized insights into the microtia repair treatment plan that a child (or an adult, if he or she were born with microtia and have not had it corrected) will follow. But all patients can reasonably expect the process to follow this path:
Before Microtia Repair
A healthcare provider will begin with a detailed evaluation of a patient’s microtia and medical history. The consultation will cover all suitable surgical options, the patient’s personal goals and any expectations. If you are seeking microtia repair treatment for your child, you should know that procedures cannot be performed until the child has reached a certain age. Your provider will be able to determine at what age your child will become a candidate for surgical treatment.
During a Microtia Repair Procedure
Regardless of which procedure is chosen, the surgery will be performed under general anesthesia. The duration of the procedure will vary based on which method is used and the grade of microtia being treated
After Microtia Repair
post-operative care will include consistent monitoring of the ear to manage discomfort, check for complications and assess its healing. A healthcare provider will schedule follow-up appointments to evaluate healing progression and assess the quality of the reconstruction. The provider will also help the patient understand how to protect the ear after surgery, which may include avoiding certain sports and other physical activities that could damage the ear.
The Benefits of Microtia Repair
There are many benefits of undergoing a microtia repair procedure, including:
- Aesthetic improvements, such as creating better facial symmetry and a natural ear shape
- Restoration of some hearing function (when combined with other aural atresia treatments)
- Increased self-esteem and psychological well-being, which can help a child’s social development
How Effective Are Microtia Repair Treatments?
Microtia repair surgeries can be quite effective, especially for the reconstruction of the external ear, but they are also among the most complex procedures in the ear, nose and throat field. Very few surgeons in the southeastern United States perform these procedures—and Tampa General Hospital’s own Julia Toman, M.D. is one of them. Dr. Toman is board certified in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery and specializes in microtia repair. A highly experienced microtia surgeon, Dr. Toman has successfully treated numerous children in the Tampa Bay area and beyond who were born with microtia.
TGH Microtia Repair Experts Can Improve Your Child’s Quality of Life
Tampa General Hospital’s Ear, Nose & Throat Institute is nationally recognized and offers the highest level of care for patients who are seeking treatment for microtia. Call (800) 822-3627 to schedule an appointment today to learn more about our treatment options and receive world-class, compassionate care.