Microtia is a birth defect where one or both ears are unnaturally small. It ranges anywhere from an ear that is slightly smaller than normal, to one that is nothing more than a tiny nub on the side of the head.

Although it's an outer ear problem, severe microtia can affect hearing. It is a serious disorder that causes embarrassment and suffering throughout a lifetime.

Now, microtia can be corrected. Advances in plastic surgery technology have made this dream a reality. People who suffer from microtia no longer have to go through life feeling abnormal.

Correcting Microtia With Rib Cartilage Graft

In most cases, microtia is caused by deformities of the cartilage. A relatively new procedure called "rib cartilage graft" is now being used to correct this. With this procedure, the doctor takes cartilage from another area of the body and implants it into the ear. The rib cartilage works best for this, and that's what gives the operation its name.

This is a complex procedure that requires a surgeon skilled in this area. It also involves a lengthy series of operations. Patients have to return at two month intervals for reshaping.

The entire procedure takes six months to a year, and it involves a long recovery period. This can be tough especially considering most patients are children.

But the results are incredible. Although it is more complicated, the rib cartilage graft works much better than implants or regular reconstruction work.

Prosthetic Ear Reconstruction

The next best thing is to reconstruct the ear using prosthetics. Over time, a porous polythene material has been developed which perfectly mimics the tissue of the ear. First, a mold is taken of the ear, and then shaped into the desired form. It is held into place with strong titanium inserts.

Unlike the rib cartilage graft, this surgical procedure is quite simple. The prosthetics are placed in the ear, and the patient is ready to go. The major disadvantage is that prosthetics can become detached from the tissue. It is also not real tissue, so it will not develop feelings or respond to other parts of the body.

If the ear doesn't cause any significant problems for the child, the parents may choose to do nothing about it. But, childhood is the easiest time to get microtia treated. As they get older, it gets much more complicated. If the problem is not one of just deformity, but hearing as well, treatment for the condition is even more important.

Consider these microtia treatments carefully and choose what is best for you and your child. It always helps to talk it over with a surgeon as well.