Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility New Devices Can Help but Ultimately, Microtia Requires Reconstructive Surgery
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Microtia, which is a congenital malformation of variable severity of the external and middle ear, can cause a host of problems for an individual. Chief among those problems, of course, is hearing. However, new devices are being created for those with microtia to ease their burdens. The Yorkshire Post covers this in a recent article titled “Headbones not headphones: Boy, 14, has hearing transformed by hi-tech gadget.”

The author of the article writes, “Thomas Robertshaw, 14, of Boroughbridge in North Yorkshire, has microtia which means the outer part of his left ear has not formed correctly, allowing him to hear only through his right ear. He had never heard stereo sound or surround sound until earlier this month when he wore a new gadget resting on his temporal bone just in front of his ears. It harnesses the acoustic properties of the skull to wirelessly transmit audio vibrations directly to the inner ear. The idea was originally developed for runners or cyclists to replace headphones, as by keeping ears clear, it allows users to hear sounds around them as well as listen to music. The idea was originally developed for runners or cyclists to replace headphones, as by keeping ears clear, it allows users to hear sounds around them as well as listen to music.” The author goes on to note that among the people who could benefit from this device, those with microtia could find it particularly useful.

However, there’s another, more effective way to deal with the problems that arise from microtia. That method is reconstructive surgery and if you’re looking for a surgeon you can trust, your best bet is Rex E. Moulton-Barrett, M.D. Dr. Moulton-Barrett is an internationally known and acknowledged surgeon who is board certified in two distinct surgical specialties, The American Board of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and The American Board of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery.

During microtia ear reconstruction, we administer pain medication via a pediatric epidural. We place the epidural during the carving and sculpting of the ear. Children don’t feel any discomfort due to the  anesthesia, which dramatically improves post-operative discomfort. Furthermore, with the intra-operative epidurals, pain control is maximized. Most often, children feel no discomfort immediately after the surgery.

Microtia ear reconstruction can go a long way, even for adults. Consider Paul Stanley of rock group KISS, who had the procedure done when he was 30. Recently, he visited a young fan going through the same procedure. According to Contact Music, “The little girl’s surgery was funded through Mending Kids, a charity backed by Stanley, and after the visit, charity bosses shared pictures of Stanley at the hospital.”

If you’re considering microtia ear reconstruction surgery, contact us for a consultation.