Ear Reconstruction in Houston, TX

Houston, TX double board-certified facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Anthony E. Brissett, is experienced at performing ear reconstruction for a wide variety of cases. Whether an ear requires partial reconstruction or full, Dr. Brissett uses highly technical skills to repair the form and function of ears to make the ears more complete and aesthetically appealing.

Dr. Brissett can repair ear defects as a result of trauma, congenital hypoplasia (microtia), and cancer. Prominent ears that may be too large or stick out too much can also be repaired with reconstructive surgery. In the case of microtia, it’s a condition seen at birth where there was incomplete development during pregnancy. These cases can vary greatly, but can be greatly improved with surgery.

There are several benefits to ear reconstruction at our Houston, TX facility, including:

• Reconstruction of ear structures after trauma, microtia, or cancer
• Pinning back of ears that may stick out
• Resizing of large ears
• Enhanced ear function and appearance
• Customized procedure plans for ideal results

The best candidates for ear reconstruction surgery:

• Suffer from problems with ear function
• Children as young as 5 or 6 to correct certain abnormalities
• Have cosmetic issues related to the ear defect
• Desire a long-term solution

There are several different surgical ways to repair the ears. With microtia repair, cartilage can be taken from the ribs to repair the ears. It will be performed in several stages to perform the grafting technique for both ears. An ear implant can also be used instead of the rib graft. A flap will be harvested from above the ear to cover the implant.

Otoplasty surgery is used for prominent ears where the ears are pinned back and reshaped by manipulating the cartilage and skin to form a more cosmetically normal-looking ear. With ear defects caused by trauma or cancer surgery, flaps and skin grafts are some of the techniques used.

Since the cause for ear defects and a patient’s condition vary widely, surgery can be relatively simple or more complicated, requiring additional surgical time and advanced techniques. 

Soft dressings will be applied to the ears and will remain in place for a few days following surgery. Patients can expect to experience some pain and discomfort, which can be lessened with pain medication. Patients will have to switch their sleeping patterns if they sleep on their side since they will have not be able to put pressure on the ears. Headbands are often used for about 2 weeks after surgery to hold the ears in position. There should be minimal scarring and scars shouldn’t be visible. There will be multiple follow-up appointments and many patients will see dramatic improvements in the months after surgery.

There are numerous reasons for why patients choose ear reconstruction surgery, but regardless of the reason, our practice is here for you. We provide top-quality, seamless surgery that will repair your ears and confidence. If you need more information, please call us for a consultation today.