EAR
RECONSTRUCTION SURGERY
What is Ear
Reconstruction?
Microtia is a congenital deformity caused by the improper development
of the external ear apparatus—the ear lobule, auricle
(helix), tragus, and choncal depression—making it severely
deformed. This can be corrected through Ear
Reconstruction surgery.
This procedure requires a series of operations done with an interval of
four to six months apart.
Initially, Ear
Reconstruction would
involve the creation of the cartilage framework with an inset in a
subcutaneous pocket behind the rudimentary ear. This is then followed
by lobule flap rotation or elevation of the cartilage framework. The
last stage of Ear
Reconstruction is the
choncal deepening or tragal reconstruction that results to a more
natural ear.
Risks on Ear
Reconstruction Surgery
Ear
Reconstruction involves
some risks and complications, which are also common to other surgical
procedures. Some of the risks include swelling, infection, scarring,
bruising, and bleeding. On rare occasions, numbness and hematoma may
also occur.
Frequently
Asked Questions Ear Reconstruction Surgery
Question:
Is
there a possibility of hearing loss after Ear
Reconstruction?
The procedure does not cause hearing loss. However, there are some
risks that could happen such as infection, bleeding, and swelling.
Question:
What is
the best age for my child to undergo
Ear Reconstruction?
Ear
Reconstruction is best
started when the child is four years old. This is the age when the ears
are full developed. Most parents feel that doing the procedure at a
younger age will help preserve their child’s self esteem
since children tend to be teased by their peers most especially when
they have prominent ears.
Question:
How
soon can my child recover from Ear
Reconstruction surgery?
Your
child’s recovery depends on the extent of the surgery and
his/her ability to recuperate. Excessive activity should be avoided for
the first few weeks after the procedure. Contact sports and light
exercise can be started after four to six weeks.
|
|
|
