The medical term for congenital ear deformities is Microtia.
Congenital means that it was apparent when the child was born.
This condition is most often present in male infants and is most common on the right side.
It is present in both ears in only ten percent of cases.
The outer and middle ear regions are the portions that are affected.
The inner ear is usually fine which allows the hearing function to remain intact.
There are surgical remedies that can greatly improve the appearance of the defect.
There are differing opinions for the cause of Microtia in a newborn.
One theory is that during pregnancy, the blood supply was restricted which resulted in the problem.
Some think that genetic issues involving one of the malformed child's parents are to blame.
Prescription medications being taken during the baby's gestation, such as Accutane, Retinoic Acid or Thalidomide, are also thought to be possible causes, as well as exposure to toxic environmental substances.
Microtia appears with varying levels of severity.
Anotia is the most severe form and it entails being born with no outer ear at all.
Grade One, Grade Two, and Grade Three are the next steps in severity.
In Grade One, the ear appears too small for the head size.
In Grade Two, the fully developed external sections of the ear did not form.
In Grade Three, there is a narrow piece of skin with a portion of an ear lobe, but it doesn't look like a normal ear.
Most of those who have been born with Microtia are still able to hear.
This is because hearing happens in the inner ear.
Luckily, this inner portion develops at a different time during gestation than the external portion, which allows it to still be functional.
Reconstructive surgeries can rebuild the ear into a body part that is both normal looking as well as functioning.
Bone construction hearing aids may need to be worn, depending on the situation, beginning in early childhood.
The reconstructive surgeries will be performed in stages.
The procedures are most often done beginning as early as age six years of age.
It is highly recommended that the surgeries be done early so that the child is able to lead a normal life in how they view themselves in order to preserve their self esteem.
There are a variety of surgical options available to correct Microtia.
One method utilizes of a portion of the patient's rib bone; another one includes a prosthetic as part of the remediation plan.
There is also an approach that requires an implant.
There are pros and cons to each approach.
If your child was born with Microtia, contact a physician who specializes in the reconstruction of an ear to find the best methods for your child's case.