Microtia and Auricular (Ear) Prosthetics Explained

What Is Microtia?

Microtia is a congenital condition in which the outer ear (auricle) is underdeveloped or absent. It affects approximately one in every 6,000 to 12,000 births and can occur on one or both sides. For patients with microtia and their families near Seattle and Tacoma, Dr. Min S. Kim, Licensed Denturist and Maxillofacial Prosthetist, at Comfy Denture & Hearing Clinic offers custom auricular prostheses that restore a natural ear appearance. Visit our /auricular-prosthetics page to learn more.

Custom Auricular Prostheses

An auricular prosthesis is a custom-crafted artificial ear made from medical-grade silicone. Dr. Kim sculpts each prosthesis individually to match the patient's opposite ear in shape, size, and detail, then hand-paints it to match the patient's skin tone. The result is a prosthesis that is virtually indistinguishable from a natural ear.

Auricular prostheses can be retained using medical-grade adhesive or anchored to osseointegrated implants placed in the skull. Implant-retained prostheses offer superior stability and eliminate the daily application of adhesive. Dr. Kim works with surgical colleagues to plan implant placement for optimal prosthetic outcomes.

Beyond microtia, auricular prostheses are also used for patients who have lost an ear due to cancer surgery, trauma, or burns. Whatever the cause of ear loss, Dr. Kim brings the same level of artistry and technical skill to every case.

If you or your child needs an auricular prosthesis, contact Comfy Denture & Hearing Clinic to schedule a consultation with Dr. Kim. Call our Federal Way clinic at (253) 839-1505 or our Kent clinic at (253) 981-3917. We welcome referrals from pediatricians, otolaryngologists, and other healthcare providers.