Name of the Procedure:

Auricular Prosthesis

• Common Names: Ear Prosthesis, Prosthetic Ear
• Medical Term: Auricular Prosthesis

Summary

An auricular prosthesis is a custom-made artificial ear designed to replace a missing or malformed ear. This prosthesis is specially crafted to match the natural appearance of the patient's ear and is typically provided by a non-physician trained in prosthetic fabrication.

Purpose

• Medical Conditions: Absence or malformation of the ear due to congenital reasons, trauma, or surgical removal (e.g., due to cancer).
• Goals: Restore the aesthetic appearance of the ear, improve self-esteem, and provide a more symmetrical facial appearance.

Indications

• Patients missing an ear or part of an ear.
• Individuals with congenital ear deformities like microtia.
• Patients who have lost an ear due to trauma or surgical procedures.
• Cosmetic enhancement after unsuccessful reconstructive surgery.

Preparation

• Pre-Procedure Instructions: None specific, normal daily routine can be followed.
• Diagnostic Tests: Detailed measurements and impressions of the ear area. Sometimes, photographs of the other ear are taken for symmetry.

Procedure Description

1. Initial Consultation: Discuss patient needs and take medical history.
2. Impression Taking: A mold is made of the ear area to create an accurate model.
3. Sculpting and Fitting: A wax model of the ear is crafted and adjusted for a perfect fit.
4. Final Prosthesis: The prosthesis is made from medical-grade silicone and painted to match the skin tone.
5. Attachment: The prosthesis can be attached using adhesives, magnets, or implant systems.

Duration

The entire process typically takes several weeks, with multiple appointments for fitting and adjustments.

Setting

Prosthesis fabrication and fitting are usually performed in a specialized clinic or prosthetic lab.

Personnel

• Prosthetist (a specialist in creating and fitting prosthetic devices).
• Possibly anaplastologists (experts in prosthetic rehabilitation, focusing on restoring the human form and function).

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Skin irritation or allergic reactions to adhesives or materials.
• Rare Risks: Infections around the attachment points if surgical implants are used.
• Management: Regular cleaning and proper skin care can mitigate most risks; any infections would require medical treatment.

Benefits

• Expected Benefits: Significant improvement in facial aesthetics and symmetry.
• Realization Time: Immediate visual improvement once the prosthesis is fitted.

Recovery

• Post-Procedure Care: Regular cleaning of the prosthesis and the skin. Periodic checks for adjustments or repairs.
• Expected Recovery Time: Minimal to none since it's a non-surgical procedure. If implants were used, the surgical sites need standard postoperative care.

Alternatives

• Reconstructive Surgery: Involves multiple surgeries and longer recovery time. Pros: permanent solution. Cons: Invasive, may not always achieve desired aesthetic result.
• Nothing: Some individuals may choose not to use any prosthetic device.
• Headgear or Bandanas: To cover the area for cosmetic purposes.

Patient Experience

• During the Procedure: Comfort throughout, non-invasive process. Impressions and fittings can feel like dental molding.
• After the Procedure: Adaptation period to the prosthesis. Mild discomfort initially, significant improvement in self-image and confidence.
• Pain Management: Generally unnecessary, as the process is non-surgical and involves little to no physical pain.