Many individuals have questions about microtia. Here are some facts about the condition.
Microtia is a birth defect. The condition arises while the fetus is still developing. Only one in 7,000+ infants is born with this defect. More often than not,
it only shows up in one ear, although it can occur in both. It isn’t life threatening but it can create stress and self-esteem issues in a youngster’s life. Doctors still don’t know exactly what causes this condition. Some medical research points to genetic issues, while other information leads scientists to believe that it may be environmental. Some possibilities include exposure to toxins and prescription medications taken by the mom during pregnancy. Since the first third of the pregnancy is when these body parts begin to develop, it is thought that this is when microtia begins.
Ears are comprised of external, middle, and inner portions. These parts work together to create a receptacle for sound waves. These sound waves send messages to the brain regarding everything that we hear and perceive. Language development, the ability to listen to music, traffic, barking dogs, and ringing phones are all linked to these sensory organs. When a child is born with microtia, the external portions are missing or limited. Some children experience hearing loss, while others do not.
There are four levels of severity, which are labeled by Grades. They are:
-Grade I – This is the least severe of the four types. In this level, the ear functions but is tinier than what would be considered normal.
-Grade II – With this type, part of the externals would be missing. The canal may be restricted, as well, which can result in ineffective hearing.
-Grade III – In this category, only a nubbin of tissue would be present. Inner workings may also be missing, resulting in loss of sensory perceptions.
-Grade IV – This is the most severe category of the affliction. Most of the inner and outer structures are completely missing.
Most cases of microtia fall into the third category. In Level III as well as others, surgeons are able to reconstruct a relatively natural looking replica. Doctors recommend this operation take place when a child is as young as four or five. If parents wait too long to have this reconstruction procedure done, their youngster will likely begin to suffer self esteem issues. Initially, the child will notice that his or her ear is different from everyone else’s. Next, when the boy or girl goes out into public view, other kids will begin to comment in an unkind way. Taunting, teasing, and bullying can be devastating to a young boy’s or girl’s self esteem. Even adults may begin to stare and ask questions in public which can be a difficult experience for all concerned.
When a child is born with microtia, his or her parents can seek out a medical practitioner who specializes in reconstructive procedures of the ear. The process may take a while to reach optimum success, but it will be well worth it. Early reparation of this facial feature will be the best remedy.
