Skip to main content

The Three Primary Types of Ear Reconstructive Surgery

March 14th, 2014
Filed under:
The Three Primary Types of Ear Reconstructive Surgery

There are three types of ear reconstruction surgery that patients who wish to restore a normal look and function to their ears can choose from. Each has its own unique benefits. The following is a brief description of each that patients can use to help decide which would be the right option for them.

Microtia/Anotia Surgery

This procedure involves partial reconstruction of the upper half of the outer ear cartilage. In more severe cases due to mild birth defects, creation of an entire external ear is necessary. The most commonly prescribed surgical option for full reconstruction involves taking the patient’s skin–usually taken from an arm or leg–and grafting it around a polyethylene-plastic frame base. Partial microtia usually involves removing the patient’s own living cartilage and grafting it to the affected area.

Otoplasty Surgery

This is a simple, highly individualized surgical procedure that is most often performed on an outpatient basis to correct oversized ears. Thousands of patients undergo this operation in the U.S. every year to correct simple anatomical types of ear deformities. Also referred to as ear pinning, recovery time from this ear reconstruction procedure often takes about a month and involves wearing an elastic headband in the evenings for a brief period as the new cartilage hardens.

Surgery Due To Trauma or Cancer

Injuries to the ear can range from common vehicle accidents to a previously unsuccessful ear procedure. Deformation can also occur if the patient has suffered from cancers such as carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or melanoma. If the injury is not the result of cancer or some other health-related condition, then the corrective ear reconstruction procedure is relatively straightforward and will be similar to the ones performed for Microtia or Otoplasty. However, if the injury is due to a cancer, there are other factors that should be considered, such as if radiation therapy has occured. Your surgeon will consult with your oncologist to develop the proper plan that produces the best prognosis for full recovery.

Thanks to Menage a Moi for the photo of a man’s ear.

Posted on behalf of Atlanta Plastic Surgery Specialists

3193 Howell Mill Rd NW, Suite 302
Atlanta, GA, 30327

Phone: (404) 355-3566

Email:

Monday & Tuesday 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Wednesday & Thursday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Atlanta Plastic Surgery Specialists, P.C.

Our Patient Reviews

4.9 / 5.0

Based on 19 reviews

Kizma Hampton

Dr. Jones is the BEST!!! The staff is also great too. They are always friendly and welcoming. I am so happy that I chose him. I had liposuction and a tummy tuck done. I am amazed at my new body. I chose him because of his experience and he is the best plastic surgeon in Atlanta, Ga. My surgery experience was great I love the no drain technique that he does. I feel confident and beautiful. And my new look is wonderful and I couldn't be happier. And it feels great to get compliments from my family and friends because they love my new look as well!!!

Anne Jones

Why did I look sad when I was not? When I saw my “normal” facial expression in the mirror, it just looked worn out. I did not like it for I did not feel like that on the inside! Dr. Jones changed it! After Dr. Mark Mitchell Jones did my eye lid surgery, I feel great about seeing myself in the mirror again. None of that loopy, tired look anymore! My only regret: I should have done this earlier. Creams do nothing to remove the wrinkles and the sagging eyelids that accompany getting into my late 40s. I feel refreshed in the face, and it affects my inside every time I look in the mirror or see a photo of myself. Dr. Mark Mitchell Jones did a fabulous job. He did not go overboard, he did it just right. He had the expert touch from the beginning to the end. Trusting my doctor is most important to me, and if I do this surgery again in ten years, I will just let him decide what can be done to achieve a more refreshed, happier look. It pays to let experience bear. It is my face. No scars. No sagging eyelids. Even the wrinkles around my eyes went away. Thank you, Dr. Jones and your wonderful staff.

Deidre Bagley

The BEST decision I have ever made! Dr. Jones' bedside manner is remarkable, his staff is caring and made me feel individualized. I didn't want a factory line breast augmentation, so I researched surgeons and Jones stood out above the rest due to his expertise, study, knowledge, and specialized techniques. And that is what I wanted when I came to my body. My desired results were achieved with my health being priority. Surgery and recovery went without a hitch. Friends and family, some who have had the same procedure themselves, call his work exceptional!!

Bruce Moyer

First I want to say what a great group of assistants Dr.Jones has working for him. They are professional, efficient and organized. All of them are nice and will work closely with your schedule. As for Dr. Mark Jones you can find a better doctor he is "Magical" when it comes to surgery. I'm in my third stage of microtia and every surgery he's calm and reassuring that everything will turn out. He does what he says he going to do, and accurate on what the turnout will be. If I had to go through this again I wouldn't go to anyone else. Thank you Dr. Mark Jones.

Natalie Kramer

Dr. Mark Mitchell Jones is an incredible doctor! Not only is he highly credible with extensive knowledge in the field, he has great bedside manner. He and his staff made me feel calm and prepared for my surgery and answered all questions I had. I am so happy I chose Atlanta Plastic Surgery Specialist to fix my nose, they did an incredible job and I have never felt better or more confident.

Celeste Temple

As a patient it's a fantastic experience. I'm so thrilled with my results and recovery was a breeze. I feel that his technique and his kind nature sets him apart from other surgeons. The outcome exceeded my expectations. As an employee I'm beyond grateful to be able to work for such a considerate, experienced physician.

Deigh Frost

My experience with Atlanta Plastic Surgery Specialists was really great. I liked Dr. Jones from the minute I met him. He answered all my questions and took any time necessary to explain everything to me about surgery options. He is friendly and professional and he and his staff made me feel at ease immediately. Surgery was a success and I am thrilled. I would recommend Dr. Mark Jones and his staff to anyone.

Amanda Sweeney

Working with Dr. Jones is truly a pleasure. It is a noticeable difference how much he cares for each individual patient, taking time to listen to their questions, concerns, and goals. His experience is unmatched and he helps each patient create a treatment plan that matches their desired outcomes.