Correcting Ear Congenital Deformities

Published on: October 27, 2015

Many children are born with misshaped ears from a variety of congenital disorders. In some cases the hearing is affected, while in other circumstances, the ear functions correctly but is deformed. Growing up with deformed ears can be embarrassing and difficult for a child, affecting their self-esteem and confidence. Ear reconstruction and otoplasty are surgical options that are available to transform congenital ear deformities and give children beautiful, natural looking ears. 

Types of Reconstructive Ear Surgeries

Although there are many different techniques and surgeries that can help improve the appearance of deformed ears, there are two main types that are generally used. The ear can either be replaced or enhanced using artificial materials or grafting can be done to create a natural ear.                                                  

  • Artificial ear reconstruction. In some cases, a plastic implant is used that is attached to the child’s head to replace their ear. While at a glance this may help with their appearance, it is artificial and a prosthetic, which will never feel like a natural ear.
  • Natural ear reconstruction. With natural ear reconstruction or otoplasty, cartilage and tissue from the child’s rib cage is used to create a natural ear. This is a delicate and highly intricate surgery; however, when performed by an experienced plastic surgeon, the child can have a new, natural ear that is formed to match their features.

The natural ear reconstruction is preferable to many parents who want to give their children the ears that nature denied them at birth. When performed by an otoplasy specialist, the grafted, carefully formed ear can look completely natural and give a child back their self-esteem and confidence in their appearance. It is worth the extra effort to create a new ear that will look and feel natural.

Posted on behalf of:
Atlanta Plastic Surgery Specialists, P.C.
2001 Peacthree Road #630
Atlanta, GA 30309
(404) 355-3566

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