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Prostheses designed for total or partial replacement of the external part of the ear (i.e., the ear auricle) that is not contained within the head. These prostheses usually consist of a piece of plastic (e.g., polymer) resembling the shape and other characteristics (e.g., texture, color) of the natural ear; a part of the prosthesis is frequently implanted and sometimes secured to the bone. Ear auricle prostheses are used to reconstruct a damaged ear, to restore body image, and/or to improve the patient\'s hearing capabilities.
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