An ear prosthesis is a custom-made device that artificially restores a missing or malformed ear. This non-surgical option is designed to replicate the natural appearance of an ear in size, shape, and skin tone. The creation of these realistic devices is the work of specialists in anaplastology, a field that merges artistic skill with scientific principles to craft a prosthesis tailored to the individual.
Medical Reasons for an Ear Prosthesis
The need for an ear prosthesis arises from two main circumstances: congenital conditions and acquired tissue loss. Congenital conditions are present at birth, such as microtia, where the external ear is underdeveloped, or anotia, the complete absence of the external ear. These conditions primarily affect cosmetic appearance and do not typically involve functional hearing loss, which is addressed through other medical means.
Acquired conditions involve the loss of an ear later in life. This can happen from trauma, such as severe burns or accidents. Another common cause is the surgical removal of tissue, known as an auriculectomy, to treat diseases like skin cancer on the outer ear. A prosthesis serves to restore a natural appearance after the physical changes caused by injury or medical treatment.
Prosthesis Types and Attachment
There are two primary methods for securing an ear prosthesis. The first is an adhesive-retained prosthesis, which relies on a medical-grade, skin-safe glue for daily application. The user applies the adhesive to the device and then presses it into place. While this method avoids surgery, its reliability can be affected by factors like oily skin, humidity, or perspiration.
A more secure alternative is the implant-retained, or osseointegrated, prosthesis. This approach involves a minor surgical procedure to embed small titanium implants into the skull bone. After a healing period of about two to three months for the bone to fuse with the implants, abutments are attached. The prosthesis then firmly snaps onto these posts using clips or magnets, providing a very secure attachment.
The Creation and Fitting Process
The process of receiving a custom ear prosthesis begins with a consultation with an anaplastologist. An impression is then taken of the affected area and the contralateral (opposite) ear to ensure the final product has a natural and symmetrical appearance. This impression serves as the foundation for the next stage.
From the mold, a wax model is sculpted, allowing the patient and anaplastologist to make adjustments to the shape and fit. The next step is color matching, where the anaplastologist mixes silicone pigments to match the patient’s specific skin tones. The final silicone prosthesis is delivered at a fitting appointment, where the anaplastologist ensures it fits correctly and instructs the patient on its use.
Daily Care and Longevity
Proper maintenance is necessary for the durability of the prosthesis and the health of the underlying skin. Both adhesive and implant-retained prostheses should be removed daily, allowing the skin to be cleaned with mild soap and water. The prosthesis itself must also be cleaned gently to remove any adhesive residue and daily buildup.
The lifespan of a silicone ear prosthesis is between one and three years, influenced by environmental factors, activity level, and how well it is maintained. Over time, the silicone can wear down, and its colors may fade or no longer match the patient’s skin. For these reasons, periodic replacement is necessary to maintain a natural appearance.