The World’s Destination for Microtia Excellence.
Led by Dr. Youssef Tahiri, author of the definitive textbook on ear reconstruction. We provide world-class, one-stage surgical results for families across 6 continents.
Recognized & Trusted By
Meet Dr. Tahiri — The Global Leader in Microtia and Ear Reconstruction
We Don’t Just Follow the Gold Standard. We Wrote It.
Philosophy · 01
Dubbed the “Godfather of Ear Reconstruction” by patients and colleagues worldwide, Dr. Tahiri has dedicated his life to one mission: helping children born without ears. His goal extends far beyond creating a beautiful ear — he strives to create one so natural, so seamlessly lifelike, that you would never know it wasn’t the ear they were born with. But more importantly, his work is about restoring confidence — giving children and adults the self-assurance they may have been missing, empowering them to move beyond what has held them back and reach their fullest potential. That commitment to excellence and care is what draws families from six continents to his Beverly Hills practice.
Introduction · 02
Credentials · 03
- Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada
- American Board of Plastic Surgery
- Fellowship — Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
- M.D. — McGill University
- Master’s, Experimental Surgery — McGill (with honors)
- Co-author — Modern Microtia Reconstruction
Microtia Patients Treated
Countries Served
Author of Modern Microtia Reconstruction
Continents Reached
Ear reconstruction is widely regarded as the most technically demanding procedure in all of plastic surgery. Creating an ear — with its intricate folds, delicate contours, and natural proportions — requires a level of artistry and precision that very few surgeons in the world have mastered.
Dr. Tahiri is globally recognized as a world leader in microtia and atresia reconstruction. He is the co-author of Modern Microtia Reconstruction: Art, Science, and Clinical Techniques — the definitive textbook on ear reconstruction, used by surgeons around the world. When the field needs a reference, they turn to his book.
But his dedication doesn’t stop in the operating room. Dr. Tahiri believes that every family affected by microtia deserves access to information, support, and community — regardless of where they are in the world. That’s why he organizes free educational conferences for patients and families across the globe, from the United States to Poland to Australia, giving parents the knowledge and confidence they need to make the best decisions for their child.
What truly sets him apart is that this isn’t just a career — it’s a calling. As a father of two young daughters, Dr. Tahiri understands children in a way that goes beyond medical training. He knows how to connect with them, calm them, and earn their trust. Parents consistently remark that their child — who arrived nervous and uncertain — left smiling and at ease.
When Dr. Tahiri says he treats every patient like his own child, he means it. Ask any family who has worked with him, and they’ll tell you the same.
If you’d like to speak directly to some of our wonderful patients, contact us today and we’ll happily connect you.
I was terrified about the surgery, but Dr. Tahiri walked us through everything. Now, two years later, you’d never know Emma was born without ears. She’s confident, happy, and thriving in school.
This doctor is a true miracle worker. His approach to children is exceptional — full of empathy, patience, and warmth. Thanks to him, our son gained not only new hearing but also self-confidence.
At the International Microtia Institute, we combine compassionate, family-centered care with a state-of-the-art surgical environment. And our relationship with your family doesn’t end when surgery does — we’ll be checking in and following up with you for years to come.
You don’t have to navigate this alone. We are here for you.
Serving Families Across the Globe
Global Leadership in Microtia Care & Reconstruction.
Where families turn for the world’s most advanced one-stage microtia reconstruction.
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# 0Microtia Specialist
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0Microtia Patients Treated
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0Countries Served
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0Continents Represented
“Families from 65+ countries don’t just choose a surgeon; they choose the Institute that wrote the book.”
Outcomes That Matter
Before & After Gallery
Browse real before-and-after photos of outcomes from Dr. Tahiri’s patients. While every journey is different, our goal remains the same: safe treatment and results that restore confidence and function.
Understanding Microtia
What Is Microtia?
The word “microtia” is Latin, and it literally translates to “small ear.” Patients with this rare condition have a small, abnormally shaped or absent external ear. Most patients have this condition only on one side (unilateral), however it can occur on both sides (bilateral).
Typically, microtia not only involves the outer ear, but is also associated with conductive hearing loss. Typically, patients have difficulty hearing and determining the direction of sound. This is commonly due to the absence of the ear canal and is called aural atresia.
A patient with microtia and aural atresia in both ears will be significantly hard of hearing and require a hearing aid. Patients with aural atresia typically also have incomplete formation of the small middle ear bones and often lack an eardrum.
Why Technique Matters
The Microtia Institute Advantage
If your child was born with microtia, you’ve probably heard about different reconstruction options. Here’s the truth: not all techniques are created equal. Dr. Tahiri specializes in Porous Polyethylene Ear Reconstruction (SUPOR™, MEDPOR™) reconstruction—a single-stage procedure that creates incredibly natural-looking ears. Unlike older methods that require multiple surgeries over several years, this approach gets your child back to being a kid faster.
The Cartilage Technique
- Multiple Surgeries/Stages
- Requires Hospitalization
- Usually have to wait until child is 8
- Painful
The Microtia Institute Advantage
- 1 single surgery instead of 3 or 4
- Done as an outpatient procedure
- Results that last a lifetime
- Can be combined with hearing restoration
- Minimal discomfort
- Performed on children ages 3+
Traditional methods use rib cartilage to build new ears. This means two surgical sites (the chest and the ear), multiple procedures over several years, and results that can change over time as the cartilage shifts.
Porous Polyethylene Ear Reconstruction ( SUPOR™, MEDPOR™) uses a biocompatible framework that integrates with your child’s tissue. The result? Natural-looking, natural-feeling ears that won’t change over time. Plus, it’s done in one surgery instead of three or four.
Adult Patients: It’s Never Too Late
While Dr. Tahiri specializes in pediatric care, he also helps adults who are dealing with congenital conditions or acquired deformities. Maybe you had surgery as a child that didn’t turn out as hoped. Or perhaps you’ve never had the opportunity for treatment.
The good news is that many of these conditions can be successfully addressed at any age. Adult patients often have different concerns and goals than children, and Dr. Tahiri tailors his approach accordingly.
Global outreach
2026 Microtia & Atresia Conferences
Explore upcoming conference locations around the world. Select a pin to view event details and access the registration page.
Meet Dr. Youssef Tahiri
Your Partner in This Journey
Dr. Youssef Tahiri earned his medical degree from McGill University in Montreal — Canada’s most prestigious medical schools — before completing his plastic surgery residency there and earning a Master’s degree in Experimental Surgery with honors.
He went on to complete a fellowship at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and the University of Pennsylvania, the #1 ranked children’s hospital in the country, where he developed a specialized focus on complex craniofacial and reconstructive surgery.
His Board Certifications Include:
- Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada
- American Board of Plastic Surgery
After his fellowship, Dr. Tahiri joined Indiana University, where he performed complex reconstructive surgeries at Riley Hospital for Children — one of the nation’s premier pediatric centers. He then made his way to California, where he worked alongside pioneering ear reconstruction surgeon Dr. John Reinisch to deepen his already exceptional expertise in microtia surgery before establishing his own practice in Beverly Hills.
- Trusted Worldwide: Dr. Tahiri has transformed the lives of over 4,500 microtia patients, providing expert care to families in more than 65 countries across the globe.
- Published Authority: Co-author of the definitive textbook, Modern Microtia Reconstruction: Art, Science, and Clinical Techniques, Dr. Tahiri is recognized as a leader at the forefront of innovative ear reconstruction.
We don’t just follow the standards. We set them.
Testimonials
What our Patients Say About Us
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We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Tahiri for everything he has done for our son. He performed our son’s ear reconstruction and cochlear implant surgery with exceptional skill and professionalism.
From our very first conversation with him, we were impressed by his professionalism, compassion, and the confidence he inspired in us. At the time, we did not know much about our son’s condition, microtia, but Dr. Tahiri patiently explained everything, guided us through every step of the process, and helped us understand all of the available options.
We traveled all the way from Romania to place our trust in his hands, and from the very beginning, he assured us that our son was in good hands and that he would care for him as if he were his own child. Those words gave us comfort, hope, and peace of mind during a very important and emotional time for our family. Throughout this journey, he proved through his actions that he truly meant every word.
He treated us with kindness, patience, and respect, and was by our side throughout the surgery and recovery process. Even after the operation, he was always available to answer our questions promptly and explain everything with remarkable calmness and care. His dedication, commitment, and genuine concern for his patients far exceeded our expectations.
We are deeply grateful for everything he has done for our son and our family. We would also like to thank the entire team and the clinic where these life-changing miracles happen. We were welcomed with warmth, professionalism, and outstanding care every step of the way, and our experience was exceptional thanks to everyone involved.
We wholeheartedly recommend Dr. Tahiri and his team to any family seeking the highest level of medical care. He is not only an extraordinary surgeon but also an exceptional human being who treats his patients with compassion, respect, and dedication.
Matei P. and his parents ❤️
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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I cannot say enough wonderful things about Dr. Tahiri and his entire team. We traveled to Los Angeles from Texas for Haiden’s surgery, and from the very beginning, we felt like we were in caring and capable hands.
Dr. Tahiri was professional, compassionate, patient, and truly took the time to make sure we understood everything. He went above and beyond to make sure Haiden received the best possible care. Throughout the surgery and recovery, the communication and support from Dr. Tahiri and his team were amazing.
Haiden did incredibly well, and we are so grateful for the results and the care he received. This experience meant so much to our family, and we could not have asked for a better surgeon or team.
Thank you, Dr. Tahiri, for your dedication, kindness, and for helping Haiden feel confident and giving him such a positive experience. We will forever be grateful!
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We had a wonderful experience with Dr. Tahiri and his staff! They worked very hard for us with insurance obstacles. We love the results!
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If you’re considering surgery with Dr. Tahiri and haven’t made up your mind yet, I would suggest that you go ahead and make that leap!
We met Dr. Tahiri at a conference in Dallas for our son’s microtia and it was a wonderful experience from beginning to end. From the on-site consultation, the insurance pre-approval process, the surgery, and follow-up appointments, we couldn’t have asked for a better experience. There was always an open line of communication with his office and everything is explained thoroughly every step of the way. My son’s surgery was completed just over one month ago and we are more than satisfied with the results so far and the overall experience.
If I could, I would give this rating 10 stars!
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Our 7-year-old son, Marcel, had surgery. All communication with Dr. Y. Tahiri and his team was very easy and responsive. The staff on site were very caring. Dr. Y. Tahiri skillfully and tactfully guided our son through the operating room, filling it with laughter and joy. Our son still remembers it fondly. The post-operative follow-up was always very responsive. Explanations were simple and clear. A huge THANK YOU to Dr. Y. Tahiri and his team!
Sorry for my english. I speak french.
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We had such a wonderful experience with my son’s surgery. From the moment we arrived, Dr. Tahiri and his the entire staff was kind, knowledgeable, and professional. They took the time to answer all of our questions and made us feel comfortable and confident throughout the entire process. The care and compassion they showed meant so much to our family. The surgical team did an amazing job, and we are incredibly grateful for the excellent care my son received. Thank you to everyone who helped make what could have been a stressful experience such a positive one. We highly recommend this team!
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After researching the best options for our 13-year-old son’s ear reconstruction, we found Dr. Tahiri, and we are so happy we waited! His work was truly remarkable, and he was such a pleasure to work with. Our son looked forward to every visit just so he could talk sports with the doctor.
The office staff was incredible. They worked tirelessly to get the surgery approved by our insurance, even spending an entire day dealing with the insurance company to ensure the procedure happened as scheduled. They communicated transparently with us the whole time, leaving us completely confident that we were in good hands. Hands down, don’t hesitate to trust Dr. Tahiri with your microtia surgery!
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Dr. Tahiri is truly an artist. Beyond being an exceptional surgeon, his compassion and empathy never go unnoticed. His entire team is professional, kind, and incredibly supportive.
We are beyond grateful for the outstanding care and such a wonderful experience. Thank you all!
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Dr. Tahiri performed microtia ear reconstruction surgery on my 13-year-old son and we could not be happier with our experience from start to finish. I’m convinced Dr. Tahiri is the best in the world at this unique and complex procedure and we are thrilled with the results. Absolutely incredible work!
Outside of the amazing result, I also appreciated how kind, gentle, and friendly Dr. Tahiri was throughout the whole process. His staff, facility, and communication were also top notch throughout the entire process. HIGHLY recommend!
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A very professional team, everything was well-organized and smooth, and we received answers to all our questions at any time. Dr. Tahiri is very competent and compassionate, always attentive, and provides parents with thorough explanations. He operated on our son (external ear reconstruction), and the result is perfect. We are very satisfied and grateful to him for his kindness, compassion, and exceptional care.
Thank you so much for everything!
Best of luck!
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There are truly not enough words to express how grateful our family is to Dr. Tahiri and his entire team. After years of researching options for our 8 year old son, who was born with bilateral microtia, we knew this was one of the biggest decisions we would ever make as parents. From our very first consultation, Dr. Tahiri took the time to answer every question, explain the entire process, and gave us complete confidence that our son was in the best hands. We traveled from Kansas to California for surgery, and despite unexpected flight delays that caused us to arrive much later than planned for our post-op appointments, Dr. Tahiri and his team graciously accommodated us without hesitation.
We are so grateful that this was only the beginning of our son’s journey. We look forward to returning for his second reconstruction procedure, hopefully before the end of this year. We know he will continue to be in the best hands with Dr. Tahiri and his team.
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From the very first consultation through my daughter’s ear reconstruction surgery and follow-up care, Dr. Tahiri and his entire team exceeded every expectation. They are truly exceptional.
Dr. Tahiri is not only an incredibly talented surgeon but also compassionate, patient, and reassuring. He took the time to answer every question, explain the entire process, and made our family feel confident and cared for every step of the way. The results of my daughter’s surgery are beyond what we could have imagined, and we are so grateful for his expertise. My daughter keeps “I can’t believe I have two big ears”.
His staff deserves just as much recognition. Every member of the team was kind, professional, responsive, and genuinely invested in our daughter’s well-being. They made what could have been a stressful experience feel smooth, organized, and comforting.
Choosing Dr. Tahiri was one of the best decisions we have ever made for our daughter. We will be forever grateful for the incredible care, dedication, and life-changing work he and his team provided. If you are considering ear reconstruction, I cannot recommend Dr. Tahiri and his team highly enough. They are simply the best.
Your Journey
What Actually Happens
Let’s be honest, the idea of surgery can be scary. Here’s exactly what you can expect when you work with Dr. Tahiri.
- 01 First Consultation
- 02 Treatment Planning
- 03 The Surgery
- 04 Recovery & Follow-up
- 05 Insurance Coverage
First Consultation
Dr. Tahiri will spend real time with you, examining you or your child, explaining the condition, and discussing options. Bring your questions—all of them. He’s heard everything before, and there’s no such thing as a silly question when it comes to you or your child’s health.
Treatment Planning
Every patient is different, so every treatment plan is different. Dr. Tahiri will work with you to develop an approach that makes sense for your family’s situation, timeline, and goals.
The Surgery
All procedures happen at top-tier, fully accredited facilities. Dr. Tahiri uses the most advanced techniques available, and the anesthesia teams specialize in pediatric care. Most families are surprised by how smooth the process actually is.
Recovery & Follow-up
Dr. Tahiri doesn’t disappear after surgery. He’ll see you the next day, then regularly throughout the healing process. His team is always available if you have concerns or questions.
Insurance Coverage
Here’s some good news: Dr. Tahiri works with virtually all PPO insurance plans. His staff will help you understand your coverage and handle the paperwork.
Your Questions Answered
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the surgery?
Most ear reconstructions take about 5 hours of operative time. Before we begin, there’s a 60–90 minute preparation phase for anesthesia, hair braiding (if needed), and surgical planning/markings—so please plan for a full day at the center. In most cases, this is an outpatient procedure.
Is the surgery painful?
Although it is a long surgery and it could seem painful, it is actually not. Patients tolerate it very well. It is done as an outpatient procedure, and often, patients require only some minimal pain medications for the first 2 days after surgery.
The surgery mostly involves skin and soft tissues. It does not involve muscle or bone, and thus, the pain is relatively minimal.
What is the post-operative care?
You’ll have your first checkup on day 2–3 after surgery. At this visit, the team removes the absorbent dressing and will drain any fluid under the scalp if needed. The silicone ear splint stays on for two weeks—keep the head dry and avoid sleeping on the operated side to prevent pressure. (For young children, a parent should sleep nearby to help them stay off that side.)
At two weeks, the splint is removed in the office and the ear/scalp are gently washed. You’ll learn how to wash the ear daily with your fingers and apply a light layer of ointment for one week. A new silicone ear mold is then worn nightly for four months to protect the ear and maintain projection.
A third visit around week 3 ensures healing is on track. At that point, cleansing with a soft gauze helps the dissolving sutures come off. You’ll also be shown how to make replacement ear molds to continue nightly wear over the four-month period.
A fourth visit around week 4 ensures healing is on track as well. At that point, all sutures are removed. You’ll again be shown how to make replacement ear molds to continue nightly wear over the four-month period.
What is the recovery period?
Most patients feel “back to themselves” by day 2–3 after surgery. Light, low-risk activities are fine—as long as the head stays dry while the silicone mold/splint is in place and your child avoids contact sports or rough play.
Many families who travel to Los Angeles comfortably enjoy gentle outings (beach walks, zoo, museums) within the first week.
Expect swelling to improve over the first few weeks. Your care team will guide return to school, bathing, and sports at follow-ups; the nighttime silicone mold is typically worn for four months to protect the ear and maintain its projection.
Contact Dr. Tahiri
Get in Touch
Choosing a surgeon for you or your child is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make. You want someone with the right training, the right experience, and the right approach.
Dr. Tahiri checks all those boxes. But more than that, he understands what this journey means for your family. He knows that behind every medical case is a child with dreams and parents who want the very best for them.
You don’t have to figure this out alone. We’re here to help, and we’re ready when you are.
Call the Office (310) 255-4476“Amazing experience with Dr Tahiri and his team. Everyone made us feel so comfortable and safe and eased all my fears of having my 5 year old go through surgery… “
Contact Dr. Tahiri today by filling out the form above or calling the office at (310) 255-4476. For families outside the Los Angeles area: We’re happy to start with a virtual consultation to discuss your or your child’s condition and determine if an in-person visit makes sense.
Dr. Tahiri accepts most PPO insurance plans. Our team will guide you through every step of the process, from initial consultation to complete recovery.