Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery
Microtia
Overview
In some cases of microtia, the external ear appears different and/or smaller. These changes may be present in one ear or, less commonly, in both ears. This condition can result in hearing loss and, in some cases, the formation of a skin cyst (cholesteatoma) in the canal requiring surgical removal.
Patient Story
Lending an Ear
“When I was seven, my mother wasn’t sure that the surgery was worth it, because the results didn’t look like real ears. As I got older and the procedure got better, I decided that, if I were to have surgery, it would be for me and on my own terms.”
Read Shawn’s story3Common Symptoms
- Malformed ear at birth
- Hearing loss
- Narrowed or missing ear canal
Diagnosis and Treatment
Because microtia is a congenital condition, a malformed ear will be obvious at birth and diagnosed immediately upon physical examination. A doctor may also perform an auditory brainstem response evaluation to evaluate inner ear function.
Surgery to widen the ear canal is recommended for most patients. In instances where the external ear is affected, specialists from our Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Division may perform reconstructive surgery to repair it. In some cases, a bone-anchored hearing aid may be appropriate to improve the hearing in the ear when the external auditory canal is completely absent or closed.
Meet Our Team
Due to the complex nature of this condition, which may include both external deformity and associated hearing loss, we combine the expertise of ear and facial plastic and reconstructive surgeons. Oral/maxillofacial surgeons, audiologists, radiologists, pediatric anesthetists, prosthodontists, and child life specialists are also frequently involved in care.
