Microtia –(small or absent ear)

Malformation of the external ear may require complex reconstruction requiring the use of cartilage from the rib.  This reconstruction is usually postponed until a minimum age of eight to allow for growth of the rib cage.  A new ear framework is sculpted from the cartilages and buried underneath the skin where the new ear is to be created.  Approximately three months later the “new ear” is elevated from underneath the skin and grafted to create the “normal” projection.  Prosthethics are also available, however, are prone to fall off and degrade requiring expensive replacements.  The cartilage sculpted ear is the preferred “permanent” reconstruction recommended by most plastic surgeons and are more resistant to infections than synthetic ears.