Ear Reconstruction in Houston, Texas (TX)
Ear reconstruction is a cosmetic surgery procedure performed to improve the aesthetic appearance of the ears. Ear deformities are repaired so that the two ears appear normal and match each other in appearance. Ear reconstruction can be performed on individuals age five and above. The procedure is performed in several stages.
To correct ear deformities in multiple stages, cartilage is first taken from the ribs located on the opposite side of the patient's body. The shape of this cartilage is then manipulated into the look of an ear, after which it is placed underneath the patient's skin. The earlobe is then placed into position. A skin graft is removed from another part of the body, the thigh for example, and used for coverage of the back of the ear. An additional procedure may be necessary after healing has taken place to achieve a perfect cosmetic result.
Ear reconstruction patients are given general anesthesia to sleep during the multiple stages of the surgery. A patient may have to wait several months between the various stages of surgery to allow for full recovery in preparation for the next stage. Depending on the age and condition of the patient, overnight stays in the hospital are generally necessary after each stage. Patients are prescribed pain medication if they're experiencing strong pain. The ear is wrapped in a gauze dressing that must be changed regularly at home. To prevent infection, patients must also apply an antibiotic ointment to the ear.
About Kristi Hustak MD
Dr. Hustak was born on an Apache Indian Reservation in Whiteriver, Arizona. Her mother worked as a surgical first assist for an aesthetic plastic surgeon. At 14, Dr. Hustak eagerly watched her first surgery, sparking her passion for the field of medicine.
Dr. Hustak’s training started in Ohio where she lived for 8 years. She graduated Magna Cum Laude with Distinction in Medical Technology from The Ohio State University in 2004. She subsequently enrolled in medical school and completed a medical mission in Trujillo, Peru, where she expanded her international surgical interests. After graduating Magna Cum Laude from The Ohio State University College of Medicine in 2008, Dr. Hustak married her best friend and classmate, Dr. Erik Hustak, and settled in Texas. Together, they have three beautiful children who enrich their lives daily.
For 6 years, Dr. Hustak completed a highly competitive integrated plastic surgery program at The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) in Galveston, Texas. She currently holds appointments at several Houston hospitals, including several through the Memorial Hermann System and St. Joseph Medical Center.
Dr. Hustak’s commitment to excellence in the field of plastic surgery is evident. She is an active clinical faculty member in plastic surgery and trains residents from several local academic medical centers in the Houston area as they learn both cosmetic and reconstructive principles. She also serves as a faculty member in the physician healing track at the University Texas Medical Branch, mentoring medical students in the development of their professional identity as doctors and healers.
She is an Assistant Program Director for the Aesthetic Center for Plastic Surgery Aesthetic Fellowship, which started in 2016. She is a local authority and national speaker on female genital rejuvenation. She is sought after to share her expertise as an invited speaker for local and national conferences. She has developed several innovative techniques in the field and continues to write and publish, along with her ACPS colleagues, on ways to make procedures better and safer for patients.
Featured Specialist for Ear Reconstruction in Houston, TX
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