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Client Testimonial

I was diagnosed with skin cancer on my ear, and saw Dr. Khosh to discuss reconstruction after cancer removal. Dr. Khosh was great; he was thorough in explaining the procedure and what I could expect. My ear now looks whole and hardly anyone can notice the scar. If you have need for ear reconstruction, you should see Dr. Khosh.

Henry J. - New York, NY

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Ear deformities may develop secondary to congenital malformation, trauma, keloid formation, or skin cancer. Ear reconstruction is a formidable challenge due to the unique anatomy of the ear, which is compromised of finely shaped cartilage and thin skin in the upper ear, and delicate soft tissue in the lobule. Recreation of the delicate ear contours requires anatomic knowledge, surgical skill, and artistic ability.

Dr. Khosh is skilled in reconstruction of ear deformity from any cause, from torn ear lobes to missing auricles. In congenitally absent ears, Dr. Khosh uses rib cartilage to recreate a natural appearing ear; this procedure is known as microtia repair. In wrestlers or boxers who develop collapsed or miss-shaped ears, Dr. Khosh uses cartilage shaving and grafting techniques to restore the normal contours.

Patients who develop keloid deformity of the ear can be helped with excision of keloid and meticulous repair. Ear reconstruction following skin cancer removal (Moh's surgery) is tailored to the particular defect. Dr. Khosh relies on his armamentarium of reconstructive techniques to achieve the most satisfying outcome.

In the links below, you will find case studies in each category of ear reconstruction. Please browse these case studies to gain further insight. Cosmetic ear reconstruction for protruding ears is presented as a separate category under otoplasty.

  • 2010 Patients' Choice Award
  • 2008-2009 & 2010-2011 Best Doctor List.
  • Past President of New York Facial Plastic Surgery Society.
  • Assistant Clinical Professor at Columbia University.
  • Past Director of Facial Plastic Surgery at Columbia Univeristy.
  • Founding Member of new York Head & Neck Institute.
  • Affiliate Member of Vascular Birthmarks Institute of New York.
  • 2001 Columbia University Maxwell Abramson Teaching Award.

Case Study

This 5-year-old boy had congenital under development of his ear, known as microtia. His ear was reconstructed with cartilage taken from his rib.

  • Patient: 5-year-old boy
  • Problem: Microtia, missing ear
  • Procedure: Microtia repair with rib cartilage graft

FAQS

What kind anesthesia is used during ear reconstruction?
Uncomplicated ear reconstructions such as repair of torn ear lobes, excision of keloids, or repair of small cancer defects can be comfortably performed under local anesthesia. More complicated ear reconstructions require sedation or general anesthesia.
How is the recovery from ear reconstruction?
Most patients can return to work within 10 days of ear reconstruction. Individuals who undergo simple office treatments such as repair of a torn ear lobe may return to full activities within a day. Patients undergoing more complicated war reconstruction will experience swelling and bruising which may last ten days.
When can I re-pierce my ear after repair of a torn ear lobe?
We recommend waiting 6 weeks or more after repair of a torn earlobe before re-priecing.
What is a wrestler's ear deformity?
A wrestler's ear deformity or cauliflower ear describes collapse and deformation of the upper cartilaginous aspect of the ear. The underlying cause of the deformity is a reoccurring collection of fluid between the war cartilage and overlying skin that eventually leads to loss of cartilage and collapse.
What is the treatment for wrestler's ear or cauliflower deformity?
Minimizing trauma to the ears will reduce the incidence of fluid collection, which is thought to contribute to this problem. When fluid collection is present, timely drainage will minimize cartilage trauma. Reconstruction of cauliflower ear deformity entails cartilage grafts and skin flaps.
How can you reconstruct a missing ear?
A missing ear that results form congenital absence or trauma may be reconstructed through a multi-staged operation. Structural support of the ear is fashioned from rib cartilage or an implant. The skin is fashioned from transfer of adjacent tissues and skin grafts.

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