Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery
Microtia and Aural Atresia Center
Our center is dedicated to the treatment of congenital ear deformities, offering advanced reconstructive surgical techniques and associated hearing loss treatments. Our team provides expert care and compassionate support for patients of all ages and their families.
Microtia means “small ear” and can range in severity from a minimally deformed ear to the complete absence of the ear (anotia). Microtia is most often a random, sporadic event. It occurs in one of every 5,000 to 7,000 births, and is mostly one-sided (on the right) and occurs predominantly in males.
Aural atresia refers to the absence or underdevelopment of the ear canal. Microtia is almost always accompanied by aural atresia because the outer ear and the middle ear develop from one common block tissue at the same time during development in the womb.
Our team has been taking care of patients with these conditions for more than three decades. We established the Microtia and Aural Atresia Center to address the need for coordinated, multidisciplinary services dedicated to these problems. We provide seamless, coordinated care at our Main Campus location in Boston.
We know that having a child with microtia can create a great deal of anxiety and questions. Please do not hesitate to call us to speak directly with one of our physicians. If a physician is not immediately available, your call will be returned within 24 hours.
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.
