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Microtia Repair – What Actually Happens During Microtia Surgery?

Microtia repair using the standard rib graft cartilage method is actually a 4-stage process that begins when the child is about 5 or 6 years old (see Children & Microtia). This is the optimal time for the microtia surgery to begin, but can start later if necessary. The stages of the process are usually spaced 2-3 months apart to allow for healing.

  1. Stage 1 of the microtia repair process is the surgery to acquire the rib cartilage that will be used to reconstruct the ear and create the basic size and shape of the ear. Stage 1 is the only stage that requires a hospital stay of one to two days and patients will have head bandages for 8 to 10 days. One week after surgery patients will return for a post-operative check-up.
  2. Stage 2 of the process involves creating the earlobe and is done a minimum of 2 months after stage 1. This procedure is done on an outpatient basis and the patient is home the same day. Stitches are removed one week after surgery.
  3. Stage 3 is known as elevation or lifting and it involves creating the outer rim area of the ear. This is also an outpatient procedure and is done at least three months after stage 2. The patient returns for a post-operative visit with Dr. Jones one week after surgery.
  4. Stage 4 of the process creates the tragus (the small pointed protrusion that protect the ear canal and collects sound from behind) and the external ear canal area. This is done on an outpatient basis, three months after stage 3 is completed. A post-op visit after 7 days will check that the area is healing properly. The sutures are removed at this visit.

Children generally recover very quickly from microtia surgery (see What is Microtia Recovery Like?) and without complications. Activity is restricted at first but otherwise normal activity can resume after several weeks.

Contact our office today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Mark Mitchell Jones or for more information about this innovative surgical procedure.

Atlanta Plastic Surgery Specialists, P.C.

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Kizma Hampton

Dr. Jones is the BEST!!! The staff is also great too. They are always friendly and welcoming. I am so happy that I chose him. I had liposuction and a tummy tuck done. I am amazed at my new body. I chose him because of his experience and he is the best plastic surgeon in Atlanta, Ga. My surgery experience was great I love the no drain technique that he does. I feel confident and beautiful. And my new look is wonderful and I couldn't be happier. And it feels great to get compliments from my family and friends because they love my new look as well!!!

Anne Jones

Why did I look sad when I was not? When I saw my “normal” facial expression in the mirror, it just looked worn out. I did not like it for I did not feel like that on the inside! Dr. Jones changed it! After Dr. Mark Mitchell Jones did my eye lid surgery, I feel great about seeing myself in the mirror again. None of that loopy, tired look anymore! My only regret: I should have done this earlier. Creams do nothing to remove the wrinkles and the sagging eyelids that accompany getting into my late 40s. I feel refreshed in the face, and it affects my inside every time I look in the mirror or see a photo of myself. Dr. Mark Mitchell Jones did a fabulous job. He did not go overboard, he did it just right. He had the expert touch from the beginning to the end. Trusting my doctor is most important to me, and if I do this surgery again in ten years, I will just let him decide what can be done to achieve a more refreshed, happier look. It pays to let experience bear. It is my face. No scars. No sagging eyelids. Even the wrinkles around my eyes went away. Thank you, Dr. Jones and your wonderful staff.

Deidre Bagley

The BEST decision I have ever made! Dr. Jones' bedside manner is remarkable, his staff is caring and made me feel individualized. I didn't want a factory line breast augmentation, so I researched surgeons and Jones stood out above the rest due to his expertise, study, knowledge, and specialized techniques. And that is what I wanted when I came to my body. My desired results were achieved with my health being priority. Surgery and recovery went without a hitch. Friends and family, some who have had the same procedure themselves, call his work exceptional!!

Bruce Moyer

First I want to say what a great group of assistants Dr.Jones has working for him. They are professional, efficient and organized. All of them are nice and will work closely with your schedule. As for Dr. Mark Jones you can find a better doctor he is "Magical" when it comes to surgery. I'm in my third stage of microtia and every surgery he's calm and reassuring that everything will turn out. He does what he says he going to do, and accurate on what the turnout will be. If I had to go through this again I wouldn't go to anyone else. Thank you Dr. Mark Jones.

Natalie Kramer

Dr. Mark Mitchell Jones is an incredible doctor! Not only is he highly credible with extensive knowledge in the field, he has great bedside manner. He and his staff made me feel calm and prepared for my surgery and answered all questions I had. I am so happy I chose Atlanta Plastic Surgery Specialist to fix my nose, they did an incredible job and I have never felt better or more confident.

Celeste Temple

As a patient it's a fantastic experience. I'm so thrilled with my results and recovery was a breeze. I feel that his technique and his kind nature sets him apart from other surgeons. The outcome exceeded my expectations. As an employee I'm beyond grateful to be able to work for such a considerate, experienced physician.

Deigh Frost

My experience with Atlanta Plastic Surgery Specialists was really great. I liked Dr. Jones from the minute I met him. He answered all my questions and took any time necessary to explain everything to me about surgery options. He is friendly and professional and he and his staff made me feel at ease immediately. Surgery was a success and I am thrilled. I would recommend Dr. Mark Jones and his staff to anyone.

Amanda Sweeney

Working with Dr. Jones is truly a pleasure. It is a noticeable difference how much he cares for each individual patient, taking time to listen to their questions, concerns, and goals. His experience is unmatched and he helps each patient create a treatment plan that matches their desired outcomes.