Microtia Awareness Day

November 9 marks National Microtia and Atresia Awareness Day, a special occasion to raise awareness, spread hope, and support individuals born with Microtia and their families. This day emphasises early diagnosis, modern microtia treatment, and the importance of expert care for children with ear deformities.

What is Microtia?

Microtia means “small ear.” It is a rare congenital condition present at birth, where the outer ear (pinna) is small, underdeveloped, or missing.

• In about 90% of cases, it affects one ear (unilateral microtia).
  
• Since the outer ear helps gather sound, Microtia often involves a closed or absent ear canal — a condition called atresia — which can lead to partial hearing loss.
  

The Four Types of Microtia

Grade	Description	Appearance
Grade I	Mild form	The ear is slightly smaller than normal, with most features intact.
Grade II	Partial Microtia	A partially formed ear with a small curved shape and possible atresia (narrow or closed canal).
Grade III	Classic Microtia	The most common form — the ear appears as a small, unformed piece of tissue (“peanut ear”).
Grade V	Anotia	The outer ear is completely missing.

Treatment Options: Rebuilding the Ear and Restoring Hearing

The main goals of microtia treatment are to improve hearing and reconstruct the outer ear. A specialist consultation such as  Pediatric ENT in Nashik or a Microtia Surgeon iis recommended soon after birth to set a comprehensive plan.

A. Hearing Restoration

Because the inner ear often functions normally, hearing can be restored using advanced options:

• Bone Conduction Devices (e.g., BAHA): These devices transmit sound through the skull to the healthy inner ear, bypassing the closed ear canal caused by atresia. This can be used almost immediately with a soft band and later with a surgical implant.
  
• Atresia Repair (Canaloplasty): This is surgery to drill open the closed ear canal and create a new ear canal & new eardrum. This is done by a specialized ENT surgeon after a CT scan confirms favorable inner ear anatomy.

B. Outer Ear Reconstruction

The goal is to create a natural-looking ear. Surgery is performed in multiple stages. Reconstruction is typically started around 6 to 10 years of age when the child’s ear has reached almost adult size.

1. Natural (Rib) Cartilage Technique: This is most preferred technique. Cartilage is gently harvested from the child’s own rib, sculpted into a new ear framework, and placed under the skin. This technique is highly favoured by many surgeons worldwide because the ear is made of the child’s
   own living tissue and there is low risk of implant rejection.
   
2. Synthetic Framework (e.g., MEDPOR): A pre-formed, biocompatible plastic implant is used as the framework for the new ear. This can sometimes be done earlier.
   
3. Prosthetics: A realistic, custom-made silicone ear is crafted by an anaplastologist and attached with adhesive or surgically placed anchors.

Dr. Shabbir Indorewala and Indorewala ENT Hospital: Expertise in India

For families seeking specialized care in India, Dr. Shabbir Indorewala and the Indorewala ENT Hospital in India are highly respected names in otology (ear surgery) and ENT care.

Dr. Indorewala is internationally renowned as a pioneer in ENT surgery.

• Pioneering Techniques: He is famous for developing and propagating the Stitch-less Ear Surgery (known as the Indorewala Technique), a minimally invasive approach that has revolutionized middle ear procedures and reduces patient recovery time and discomfort.
  
• Microtia and Pinnaplasty: His expertise extends to the reconstruction of the outer ear, known as Pinnaplasty or Ear Augmentation, which is the surgical option for treating Microtia (small ears). This procedure involves adjusting the size and shape of the ear, often using cartilage grafting, and is performed in stages to achieve a functional and aesthetic result.

Indorewala ENT Hospital: A Centre of Excellence

Located in Nashik, Indorewala ENT Hospital is a leading institute for comprehensive ear, nose, and throat care.

• Holistic Care: The hospital provides a full range of ENT services, including Paediatric ENT in Nashik and Facial Plastic Surgery—both essential specialties for Microtia patients.
  
• Advanced Facilities: The centre is equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic and surgical facilities and is committed to using advanced techniques, including those for complex ear conditions like Microtia and hearing restoration procedures (like Bone Anchored Hearing Aids).
  
• Legacy and Education: The hospital is recognized for its commitment to surgical education, hosting annual workshops that train ENT surgeons from across the country, further cementing its status as a leader in the field.

Conclusion

Microtia Awareness Day reminds us of the importance of awareness, timely care, and compassion. With advanced medical expertise and personalized treatment options, children born with Microtia or Atresia can lead confident, fulfilling lives supported by innovation and hope.