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Unilateral Pre-operation & Post-operation

We are MicrotiaMD, specializing in professional medical services for the reconstruction of ears for patients with congenital microtia and acquired external ear loss.

Pre-Operative
Instructions

Psychological Readiness

  • Parents should prepare themselves and their child emotionally for surgery.
  • Skin color and contours will stabilize over time, typically within 6 months to 2 years.
  • The procedure is delicate but not overly traumatic or painful, with a low risk of complications.

Physical Evaluation

  • Routine tests: physical exam, blood, urine, stool tests, ECG, and chest X-rays.
  • Additional imaging (e.g., CT, MRI) may be required for assessing anomalies.
  • For adult patients, a 3D CT scan of the chest may be needed to check rib cartilage ossification.
  • Treat severe conditions like congenital heart disease before surgery.

Financial Planning

  • Most insurance does not cover microtia reconstruction; check for regional health program reimbursements.
  • Prepare for potential out-of-pocket costs and save hospital invoices for reimbursement applications.

Other Preparations

  • Optional: A 3D printed ear model can assist in surgery planning.
  • Preoperative head shaving depends on the reconstruction method; daily life and schooling are minimally affected.

Post-Operative
Instructions

Swelling and Recovery

  • Swelling and redness are common after surgery and may take months to fully subside.
  • Skin color and contours will stabilize over time, typically within 6 months to 2 years.
  • Daily cleaning, especially with a showerhead, helps prevent scabbing and promotes healing.

Protecting the Reconstructed Ear

  • Avoid pressure on the ear during the first 6 months to prevent deformation.
  • Use soft pillows while sleeping to minimize pressure.
  • Protect the ear from bumps and injuries, especially during physical activities.

Skin and Scar Care

  • The skin on the reconstructed ear may peel initially; daily bathing helps maintain hygiene.
  • Prevent scarring with anti-scar ointments during the day and adhesive strips at night for up to 6 months.
  • Severe scars may benefit from early laser treatments.

Cold Weather Protection

  • Optional: A 3D printed ear model can assist in surgery planning.
  • Preoperative head shaving depends on the reconstruction method; daily life and schooling are minimally affected.

Cartilage and Titanium Wires

  • Optional: A 3D printed ear model can assist in surgery planning.
  • Preoperative head shaving depends on the reconstruction method; daily life and schooling are minimally affected.

Long-Term Maintenance

  • Optional: A 3D printed ear model can assist in surgery planning.
  • Preoperative head shaving depends on the reconstruction method; daily life and schooling are minimally affected.

FAQs

It is a staged method for ear reconstruction. The first stage uses a tissue expander to create enough skin for covering the ear framework. Once sufficient skin has been generated, at the second stage, the expander will be removed, and a custom-shaped ear framework, making by the patient’s rib cartilage, is inserted and covered with the expanded skin.

By using a tissue expander to create additional skin, this technique ensures that the reconstructed ear has a natural appearance with well-defined contours and textures, closely resembling a real ear. The expanded skin is more pliable and matches the surrounding area in color and texture, which minimizes the visibility of surgical scars and enhances the overall result.

The framework is typically made from the patient’s rib cartilage, shaped to match the natural ear.

Cartilage absorption is extremely rare based on thousands of cases. Cartilage deformation is also rare and generally occurs early if there is post-operative pressure. Once healed, the ear maintains its shape long-term.

Most patients with congenital microtia or acquired ear defects can benefit from this method.

It is particularly suitable for those seeking optimal aesthetic results. The best age is between 7-12 year-old. There are no strict requirements regarding height or chest circumference unless the child has significantly delayed development or chest deformities (e.g., pectus carinatum). While sufficient rib cartilage development is necessary for successful reconstruction.

Harvesting rib cartilage for ear reconstruction is a safe and well-tolerated procedure. After the surgery, the chest heals well, and there is no significant long-term impact on the patient’s growth, breathing, or physical activities.

The incision made to access the cartilage is small and carefully placed to minimize scarring, often hidden in natural skin folds. While patients may experience some initial discomfort or tightness in the chest area, this resolves within a few weeks as the body heals. For children, the procedure does not interfere with chest development, and they can return to normal activities, including sports, after recovery.

The procedure is delicate but not highly traumatic or painful. Most patients tolerate it well, and effective pain management is provided post-surgery.

Yes, most patients resume physical activities, including sports, without significant issues. However, care should be taken to avoid direct trauma to the reconstructed ear, especially in the early recovery period.

If the ear sustains an injury, it’s essential to consult a doctor immediately to assess and address any potential damage.

Yes, the reconstructed ear is designed to resemble a natural ear closely. Swelling and skin tone may take time to normalize, but the final result is long-lasting and stable.

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