Ear Prosthetic: Auricular Prosthetic for Microtia Patients

An auricular prosthesis is a custom-crafted artificial ear designed to restore the appearance of the outer ear for patients who were born without one (microtia) or who have lost an ear due to cancer surgery, trauma, or other conditions. Dr. Min S. Kim at Comfy Denture & Hearing Clinic is one of the few practitioners in Washington State who specializes in auricular prosthetics.

The fabrication process begins with a detailed consultation and examination. Dr. Kim takes impressions and photographs of the patient's remaining ear (if present) to use as a reference for sculpting the prosthesis. Each auricular prosthesis is individually sculpted in wax, then cast in medical-grade silicone and hand-painted to match the patient's skin tone and the details of their natural ear.

Auricular prostheses can be retained using medical-grade adhesive, which is applied daily and provides a secure hold. For patients who prefer a more permanent solution, the prosthesis can be anchored to osseointegrated implants placed in the skull behind the ear. Implant retention eliminates the need for daily adhesive and provides superior stability.

For children with microtia, an auricular prosthesis can be profoundly impactful — allowing them to participate in social activities without self-consciousness. Dr. Kim works with patients of all ages and is experienced in the unique considerations involved in fabricating prostheses for pediatric patients.

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 serve patients from throughout Western Washington and welcome referrals from medical providers.