Auricular Prostheses
Frequently asked Questions
- Do artificial ears really look natural?
- Is there a way to reconstruct a fixed non-removable ear?
- What material is an artificial ear made of?
- How is an artificial ear retained in place?
- How long does it take to construct an artificial ear?
- Can the prosthesis be worn all the time?
- How long does a prosthesis last?
- Do artificial ears really look natural?
- Is there a way to reconstruct a fixed non-removable ear?
- What material is an artificial ear made of?
- How is an artificial ear retained in place?
- How long does it take to construct an artificial ear?
- Can the prosthesis be worn all the time?
- How long does a prosthesis last?
Yes. Artificial ears constructed in our office using the latest technology in materials and equipment, do look very natural in most of the cases. It is always advisable, however not to trim your hair very much around your ears to camouflage the prosthesis margins.
Yes. Ears can be surgically reconstructed by using cartilage grafted from your body (ribs for example), or using a synthetic scaffold that can be covered with your skin. The surgeries however are multiple, time consuming, expensive and the end result as far as shape, appearance, symmetry to the other ear, and success without infection or rejection is not guaranteed. Most of the specialists therefore advise using artificial silicone ears as they require no surgery, much shorter construction time, very predictable results as far as appearance and symmetry to the other ears is concerned.
Artificial ears are usually constructed using medical grade silicone, which is a soft, pliable, elastic material to closely resemble the skin texture.
In most of the cases, artificial ears can be retained in place using medical grade adhesives, which is a medical form of glue. A more advanced method is using osseointegrated craniofacial implants, where the prosthesis is attached to titanium screws fixed in the mastoid bone. This provides better and more secure retention.
It takes about 2 – 3 weeks.
Prostheses can be worn most of the time. However, they should not be worn when bathing, sleeping, or during contact sport activities.
Prostheses degrade over time due to several factors. Because of this, they are remade approximately every two to four years. Thin edges of prostheses can tear, color can fade over time, and smoke can discolor the silicone material. However, prostheses last longer if they are well cared for and maintained. Implant retained prostheses may have an extended useful life because of the elimination of adhesive products.