Rib Cartilage Ear Reconstruction

If you are dissatisfied with the results of a previous microtia surgery, Dr. Charles Thorne can perform microtia surgery revision at his practice in New York, NY. Microtia is a rare condition and there are only a small number of doctors who regularly perform ear reconstruction. For over 30 years, Dr. Thorne has dedicated his practice to performing ear reconstruction and otoplasty. Whether you had a rib cartilage ear reconstruction or MEDPOR® ear reconstruction, Dr. Thorne has the experience and training to revise your previous surgery and help you achieve the results you desire.

Issues from Previous Surgeries

Surgical inexperience, along with unforeseen complications, can create unsatisfactory results for microtia repair patients. Revision surgery can address a range of concerns, such as:

• Disproportionate ears
• Flat ears which sit too close to the head
• Unsuccessful integration of tissue
• Unnatural appearance

In some cases, patients who undergo microtia treatment at a young age may outgrow their prosthetic or reconstructed ear. Others may experience side effects due to materials used in the reconstruction.

Planning Revisional Surgery

If you are dissatisfied with the results of a previous procedure, the first step is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Thorne.

Dr. Thorne can choose between several forms of reconstruction to improve the results of a previous microtia surgery. 

During the appointment, you can explain your concerns in detail and discuss your medical and surgical history. Then, he will perform a full evaluation of the treatment site and assess your facial symmetry, hairline, and the anatomy of your other ear. Based on the information he gathers, Dr. Thorne can design a treatment plan suited to your unique needs.

Immediate and Long-Term Treatment Options

Dr. Thorne offers several forms of ear reconstruction which can help improve the results of a previous microtia repair surgery. The best option will depend on what type of surgery you had in the past and the types of results you are hoping to achieve.

Rib Cartilage Frameworks

Issues resulting from rib cartilage ear reconstruction may be aesthetic or functional, or a combination of the two. If the appearance of your reconstructed ear bothers you, Dr. Thorne can replace the framework by using tissue from the other side of your rib cage. However, if your body is rejecting the harvested tissue, you may experience better results with a MEDPOR ear reconstruction. For some patients, the biocompatible material offers a safe alternative to cartilage.

MEDPOR Ear Reconstruction

Dr. Thorne can replace unsatisfactory MEDPOR frameworks with rib cartilage or a new polyethylene framework. MEDPOR ear reconstructions are prone to exposure of the polyethylene framework which requires a procedure to ensure that the entire framework is covered with healthy tissue.  However, Dr. Thorne can precisely plan and perform your procedure to ensure natural-looking results.

Silicone Prosthetic Ears

In some cases, scar tissue from previous reconstructions can interfere with revision surgery. Dr. Thorne can use a silicone prosthetic to immediately restore the appearance of your ear without surgery. Prosthetics can be attached to the skin with adhesive or titanium posts which are embedded in the bone for added stability. Typically, prosthetics are only recommended as a temporary solution or for older patients who do not have an active lifestyle.

Restore Your Confidence

For some patients, ear reconstruction for microtia is a long and difficult process. Dr. Thorne recognizes that reaching the end of this process and seeing unsatisfactory results can be incredibly frustrating. Learn more about the benefits of revision surgery for microtia repair by contacting his office online or calling (212) 794-0044 today.