Ear Reconstruction

For children or adults whose ears failed to properly develop at birth, living with an ear defect can be a source of great insecurity. Similarly, those whose ears are disfigured through injury or trauma can suffer self-esteem issues due to their ear appearance.

Ear reconstruction surgery can recreate a proportionate size and shape to the ear. Ear reconstruction is a very delicate procedure that requires detailed knowledge of facial plastic surgery, plastic surgery and/or otolaryngology (head and neck surgery).

The reconstructive surgery specialists at The University of Kansas Health System use their unique training and significant experience in ear reconstruction to achieve the best possible outcome.

Ear reconstruction surgery is a procedure designed to treat aesthetic defects in 1 or both ears. The surgery can correct damage or trauma sustained from an ear injury, restore a normal ear appearance after cancer removal surgery, or recreate the ear(s) in patients affected by microtia – a condition involving ear malformation that can be mild or severe.

Every ear reconstruction procedure must be tailored to accommodate the unique needs of the individual, so each reconstructive surgery uses different techniques depending on the nature of your specific features and appearance goals. All approaches to ear reconstruction require detailed knowledge and understanding of external as well as internal ear physiology to ensure an optimal cosmetic outcome.

Unlike ear pinning surgery, which is used to minimize the look of prominent ears, ear reconstruction can benefit individuals who wish to correct a partial or total ear defect. Candidates for surgery generally include those who:

• Are affected by malformation in 1 or both ears
• Are missing 1 or both external ears as a result of microtia
• Require ear reconstruction after cancer or tumor removal
• Seek to repair the ear following an injury or trauma

There are different approaches that can successfully recreate or restore a normal ear appearance. The best technique for your unique situation will depend on the details of your treatment plan. Generally, the surgery is performed using either autologous, prosthetic or synthetic reconstruction.

Our skilled surgeons perform ear reconstruction surgery with the goal of achieving a natural ear appearance that exists in harmony with your surrounding facial features. Depending on which approach is used, you may require multiple procedures to achieve the best result.

While ear reconstruction surgery should not cause significant discomfort, there could be some atypical pain or sensitivity, which may be treated with prescription medication if necessary. Very unlikely complications of this procedure may include asymmetry, changes in sensitivity, hearing difficulties and infection.

Ear reconstruction surgery can vary in scope and intensity due to the specifics of the procedure, but generally begins with attaching any necessary grafts, cartilage or prostheses before shaping and sculpting the outer ear – including the earlobe, tragus and external canal. Tissue expansion may be used to create excess skin and tissue to cover the ear as needed.

Depending on the type of ear reconstruction performed, a series of surgeries may be required, especially if both ears need to be constructed. Surgeries are typically scheduled about 2-3 months apart.