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The literal translation of microtia is “small ear.” It is a condition in which the ear in undeveloped at birth; it can be accompanied by hearing loss, and such loss occurs mostly in bilateral microtia—when both ears are affected by the condition. Reconstructive surgery of the ear can be done solely for cosmetic reasons, but in the event that hearing loss is present, it is necessary to rebuild the outer ear in order to correct hearing. Often the outer ear is corrected so that the patient can be fitted with a hearing aid. Traumatic injury to the ear is another reason that the procedure is sought. The most common ear injuries are human bites, burns, injuries attributed to car accidents, and severely infected piercings. In the event of ear trauma, surgery can sometimes be done immediately, though it is sometimes necessary for the original would to heal prior to attempting restoration. Not all cases demand a total reconstruction, but those that do take place in four separate surgical stages at two to three month intervals. The first stage involves retrieving the cartilage that will be used to rebuild the ear structure. This cartilage is taken from the ribs, and during the same surgery, it is inserted into the skin of the affected ear. This step takes four to five hours and requires a few days stay in the hospital. Often an outpatient procedure, the new earlobe and cartilage frame are formed during the second stage of the operation. Sutures are removed after approximately a week, and the patient awaits the third part of the procedure which is also typically an outpatient experience and involves a skin graft that contributes to the ear elevating from the side of the head. Stage four of the surgery is dedicated both to creating a conchae and to fine tuning cosmetic features such as folds and contours and symmetrical issues. The sutures from the final stage are removed about a week post-operation. It is critical that the patient follow all instructions provided by the surgeon in order to obtain optimal results. These orders will include avoiding playing sports or any other rough activities such as recess or physical education classes for younger patients. Blow dryers, curling irons, and other hair styling mechanisms should not be used during the recovery period, and it is important to keep the head and ears cool which is emphasized if the surgery is completed in hotter months of the year. Are you interested in any form of ear surgery Reconstruction of the ear is sometimes necessary to correct hearing. If this criteria fits you, the appropriate steps must be taken. Visit http://www.atlantaear.com
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