Ear reconstruction is a surgical treatment used to repair an ear injured by physical trauma. The surgery aims to restore the appearance of the ear due to any medical condition, traumatic injuries or congenital deformity. With time, ear reshaping surgery in India has gained immense popularity as it helps many individuals revive their lives. This comprehensive guide will provide insights into what ear reconstruction surgery is.

How is Ear Reconstruction Surgery Performed?

Ear reconstruction can be performed in the following ways:

1. Autogenous Reconstruction: This is performed using the patient’s rib cartilage. This promises a long-term benefit as it utilises the patient’s cartilage and reduces the chances of rejection by the body.

2. Pro Reconstruction: This is a single-stage surgery where titanium implants are used with a prosthetic cover. This method is used as a last resort if other methods do not work. The process uses an artificial ear and has high maintenance.

3. Alloplastic Reconstruction: This is again a single-stage surgery performed at an early age. The procedure does not use the patient’s cartilage; instead, a skin graft is used. Proper aftercare is vital post-surgery so as not to cause any rejection or damage to the implants.

Let us understand the two stages of ear reconstruction surgery.

Ear Reconstruction Surgery: Stage 1

In the first stage, the surgeon creates a skin pocket at the site of the ear by reshaping the tissues. The rib cartilage then gets cropped in three pieces. The rib cartilage then gets wired with stainless steel wire, creating a detailed ear structure. The structure then gets inserted in the pocket, and a gentle suction is applied so that the designed ear structure can combine. The procedure takes around 4-6 hours, and the patient is hospitalised for at least a week.

Ear Reconstruction Surgery: Stage 2

To provide a proper position to the ear, it gets lifted with a piece of cartilage. The surgeon adds a flap of tissue and performs skin grafting over the exposed cartilage. The procedure takes around 3-4 hours to complete, and the patient stays in the hospital for 2-3 days. The surgery has a high success rate, and individuals get the desired results.

The ear reconstruction surgery is performed under local or general anaesthesia, depending on the patient’s underlying condition. The effect of anaesthesia wears off a few hours post-surgery. Some individuals with a thin or low hairline might not be suitable candidates for ear correction surgery. To get ear reconstruction surgery, consider consulting Dr. Parag Telang, a renowned ear surgeon in India at Microtia Trust.

How to Prepare For Ear Reconstruction Surgery?

Preparing for ear reconstruction surgery involves a consultation with an ear surgeon. During the consultation, the surgeon will discuss the medical history, expectations of the patient and the desired outcomes. Depending on the technique, the patient must get scans for personalised treatment.

What Happens After Ear Reconstruction Surgery?

The chosen method will be used during ear reconstruction surgery to restore the ear to its natural shape and function. This may include using artificial implants, tissue expanders, or cartilage transplants from other areas of the body. The process's complexity is determined by the kind of surgery used and the extent of reconstruction needed.

How is Recovery After Ear Reconstruction Surgery?

Following surgery, the patient will be under observation and provided with post-operative care instructions. The patient can expect some discomfort, swelling, and moderate pain. Pain management and wound care are provided to promote healing.

How Long Does Ear Reconstruction Surgery Take?

Ear reconstruction surgery is usually short, requiring only two to three hours to complete. The recovery process is slow and requires intensive care. Patients are often discharged within three days of surgery. Postoperative swelling and inflammation usually resolve within a few weeks, but it can take up to three months to see complete benefits or functionality.

Will Ear Reconstruction Surgery Affect Hearing?

Ear reconstruction surgery dramatically improves hearing ability, especially for congenital malformations. The auditory canal opens up, and artificial hearing implants are placed to improve hearing ability.

Consult Dr. Parag Telang To Get Ear Reconstruction Surgery

If one is looking to get ear reconstruction surgery or ear reshaping surgery in India, one can consult Dr. Parag Telang, a prominent plastic surgeon at Microtia Trust. The surgery is usually advised for patients with microtia (underdeveloped ear at birth) or those who have lost a normal ear because of any disease or accident.