Question
A 4-year-old boy, a friend’s child, seems to have an ear shape different from other children, and the outer ear canal is narrow. How is congenital microtia treated?
Answer
In the case of the child, surgical treatment needs to be considered, but it is generally recommended to undergo shaping surgery after 6 to 8 weeks of age. In addition to the issue with the outer ear canal, there may also be underdevelopment of the middle ear or inner ear, which usually requires 3 to 4 surgeries. However, the child is still quite young. Apart from treatment, patients should maintain a regular lifestyle, keep warm and prevent colds, eat a light and soft diet, ventilate frequently, and drink plenty of hot water to strengthen their constitution and prevent diseases.