Reconstructive Surgery
Ear Reconstruction
Rebuilding ear structure lost to congenital deformity, trauma, or cancer surgery
Overview
Ear reconstruction restores the shape and structure of an ear affected by a congenital deformity (such as a Stahl ear or prominent, underdeveloped fold), trauma, or the removal of skin cancer from the ear or the area just in front of it.
Because the ear's cartilage framework gives it its distinctive shape, techniques often work with the ear's own tissue — reshaping existing cartilage where possible, or using a nearby flap when tissue needs to be brought in to reconstruct a missing part, such as the tragus or ear canal.
Candidacy
Is Ear Reconstruction Right for You?
- A congenital ear deformity, such as an abnormally folded or underdeveloped antihelix
- Loss of part of the ear's structure following trauma or skin cancer excision
- Asymmetry between the two ears affecting appearance or the fit of glasses or hearing aids
- Cartilage and surrounding tissue in a condition suitable for reshaping or flap reconstruction
What to Expect
Your Journey
- 01
Assessment
Examination of the ear's cartilage framework and surrounding tissue to determine whether reshaping, grafting, or flap reconstruction is the right approach.
- 02
Reconstruction
Performed under local or general anaesthesia depending on the extent of correction, reshaping or rebuilding the affected structures with the ear's own tissue wherever possible.
- 03
Recovery
A protective dressing supports the reshaped ear during initial healing, with sutures and any splinting reviewed at follow-up.
Recovery
Recovery & Aftercare
Swelling and bruising typically settle over one to two weeks, with the final contour becoming clearer as healing progresses over the following months. Reconstruction is sometimes staged, particularly for more complex or long-standing deformities.
Case Gallery
Documented Cases
Graphic Medical Content
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FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age can congenital ear deformities be corrected?
This depends on the specific deformity and technique — some conditions are best addressed early, while cartilage-reshaping techniques can also be performed successfully in older children and adults, as assessed individually.
Will the reconstructed ear look symmetrical to the other side?
The goal is the best achievable match, though some techniques involve staged procedures, and outcomes depend on how much original structure is available to work with.
Is ear reconstruction only for congenital deformities?
No — it's also used to rebuild structure lost to trauma or following skin cancer removal from the ear or the skin just in front of it.
Have Questions About Ear Reconstruction?
Every case is different. Get in touch to discuss your situation, or keep reading for more on candidacy, recovery, and what to expect.
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