Ear reconstruction

Ear reconstruction is surgery to repair or rebuild the external part of the ear, called the auricle or pinna. This surgery may be done to correct an irregularity of the outer ear that is present at birth (congenital defect). Or it may be used to restore an ear affected by cancer surgery or damaged by trauma, such as a burn.

Ear reconstruction typically is done to treat the following conditions that affect the outer part of the ear: Underdeveloped ear (microtia) Missing ear (anotia) Part of an ear is buried under the skin on the side of the head (cryptotia) An ear is pointed and has extra folds of skin (Stahl's ear) An ear is folded over itself (constricted ear) Part of an ear was removed or damaged as a result of cancer treatment A burn or other traumatic damage to an ear Ear reconstruction only involves the outer part of the ear. It does not change the ability to hear. Surgery to correct hearing problems may be planned along with this surgery in some cases.

Ear reconstruction, as with any type of major surgery, has risks, including the risk of bleeding, infection and a reaction to anesthesia. Other risks associated with ear reconstruction include: Scarring. While scars from the surgery are permanent, they're often hidden behind the ear or within ear creases. Scar contraction. Surgical scars can tighten (contract) as they heal. This might cause the ear to change shape, or it may damage the skin around the ear. Skin breakdown. Skin used to cover the ear framework may break down after surgery, exposing the implant or cartilage underneath. As a result, another surgery may be needed. Damage at the skin graft site. If skin is taken from another part of the body to form a flap to cover the ear framework — this is called a skin graft — scars may form where the skin was taken. If skin is taken from the scalp, hair may not grow back in that area.

Ear reconstruction is a complex process that requires a team of specialists. You'll likely meet with a plastic surgeon and a physician who specializes in ear care (otolaryngologist). If hearing loss is a concern, a hearing specialist may be involved in the surgical planning, as well. To see if you're a good candidate for ear reconstruction, your team will likely: Review your medical history. Be prepared to answer questions about current and past medical conditions. Your health care provider may ask about medications you take now or those you have taken recently, as well as any surgeries you've had. Do a physical exam. Your health care provider will examine your ear. A member of your team might also take pictures or create impressions of both ears to help with surgery planning. Order imaging exams. X-rays or other imaging exams can help your team assess the bone surrounding your ear and decide on the surgical approach that's right for you. Discuss your expectations. Your health care provider will likely talk with you about the results you're expecting after the procedure and review the risks of ear reconstruction. Before ear reconstruction you might also need to: Stop smoking. Smoking decreases blood flow in the skin and can slow the healing process. If you smoke, your health care provider will advise you to stop smoking before surgery and during recovery. Avoid certain medications. You'll likely need to avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements, which can increase bleeding. Arrange for help during recovery. Make plans for someone to drive you home after you leave the hospital and stay with you for at least the first night of your recovery at home.

Ear reconstruction can be done in a hospital or in an outpatient surgical clinic. Ear reconstruction usually is done using general anesthesia, so you'll be in a sleep-like state and won't feel pain during surgery.