The oversize or smaller size of the ears than the normal look grabs attention in an inappropriate way. It can hamper one’s self-confidence. These can be corrected through an ear surgery called microtia ear surgery.
In this blog, Dr. Parag Telang, known as the best ear surgeon in Mumbai, will share a surgical guide on microtia ear reconstruction. So read the blog carefully.
What is Microtia?
The absence or underdevelopment of the external ear characterizes a congenital malformation called microtia. Due to the obvious differences in appearance, people with microtia frequently experience physical, emotional, and social difficulties.
Causes of Microtia
Even though the exact origins of microtia are unknown, environmental and genetic factors are thought to be the main contributors to this ear impairment. Only 5% of patients are estimated to have genetic characteristics as a contributing factor. Many theories have explained the causes of microtia during fetal development. Some of them are underneath:-
- Disruption of neural crest cells, vascular disruption, and altitude.
- Drinking alcohol, Using drugs, and coffee taken by the woman during her pregnancy.
- Side-effects of drugs, including Thalidomide and Accutane
Grade of Microtia
Grade 1: A little ear, frequently with a constrained or even absent ear canal.
Grade 2: An improperly formed outer ear, usually in the top half, with an often constricted or occasionally absent ear canal.
Grade 3: The most prevalent kind of ear disease is characterized by small, abnormally formed ears with an absent ear canal.
Grade 4: A condition called anotia in which the ear and ear canal are missing.
Understanding Microtia and Its Impact
Microtia may affect one ear unilaterally, or both ears may be affected bilaterally. It is generally divided into four grades based on the deformity's severity. While grade II microtia only has a partial ear structure, grade I microtia involves a small ear with a regular form and placement. A small, undeveloped ear characterizes grade III microtia, and the lack of an external ear characterizes grade IV anotia.
Microtia has effects that go beyond appearance. Functional difficulties brought on by ear abnormalities include hearing loss, trouble locating sound sources, and poor sound transmission. Additionally, because of the obvious difference, people with microtia frequently experience emotional and psychological distress, which could result in low self-esteem and social anxiety.
Microtia Ear Reconstruction: The Surgical Guide
Microtia ear reconstruction is an invasive procedure that aims to create a natural-looking ear while enhancing the ear’s functionality. A multidisciplinary team with members who specialize in audiology, psychology, reconstructive surgery, and otology is needed to complete the treatment, which has numerous stages. Taking a closer look at the surgical guide's key procedures
Step 1: Preoperative Assessment
A thorough analysis of the patient's situation comes first. This entails evaluating the degree of microtia, determining the patient's hearing capacity, and discussing the patient's expectations and intended results. This stage also includes getting any necessary imaging, such as CT or MRI scans, to prepare the surgical strategy.
Step 2: Rib Cartilage Harvesting
Due to its stability and capacity to replicate the shape of a natural ear, rib cartilage is frequently chosen as the material for ear restoration. During this phase, a small incision is made in the patient's chest to harvest a piece of rib cartilage. The wound is then stitched up, barely leaving a mark.
Step 3: Framework Fabrication
The harvested rib cartilage is painstakingly cut and molded to imitate the framework of the absent ear. According to the microtia surgeon, the patient's unaffected ear or the desired result must match the measurements and proportions. The new ear is built on top of this framework.
Step 4: Pocket Creation
To fit the framework, the microtia surgeon carves a pocket beneath the patient's skin at this stage. The pocket is meticulously sculpted to ensure that the reconstructed ear is positioned and oriented correctly.
Step 5: Framework Insertion
The framework is put into the pocket after it has been formed and fastened using sutures or minuscule screws. The surgeon makes sure the framework is placed organically and symmetrically.
Step 6: Skin Grafting
In the following stage, a tiny layer of skin is removed, frequently from the patient's scalp, to cover the framework and create a natural texture. The skin graft is meticulously sutured in place to create an aesthetically pleasing contour.
Step 7: Postoperative Care
The patient is closely watched during the healing process after surgery. For optimum healing and best results, pain management, wound care, and follow-up sessions are crucial. In accordance with the patient's requirements, extra operations such as earlobe rebuilding.
Benefits of Microtia Ear Reconstruction Surgery
- The utilization of the patient's rib cartilage prevents transplant rejection.
- Outcomes that look natural.
- Surgery can also be used to treat hearing issues.
- Improves facial proportion and attractiveness.
- Helps people build their self-esteem and confidence.
The ideal age for Microtia Surgery
An ideal age for microtia surgery is 9 years. Before that, the child’s ear is still developing, so it is not advisable to do the surgery before its full formation.
If someone is looking for an expert for ear reconstructive procedures, they can consult with Dr. Parag Telang, the best microtia surgeon in Mumbai, at Designer Bodyz.
