Ear Shape Deformity

Ear Shape Deformities and Non-Surgical Treatment

Non-invasive ear molding is a treatment option for some infants with ear shape deformities.

The molding involves the use of a customized piece of dental putty, surgical glue and adhesive tape to reshape the ear. The dressing is placed over the ear to hold the putty in place and is changed weekly.

Ear molding therapy is performed in our outpatient clinic and is very well tolerated.

Treatment ideally starts as early as two weeks of age when the ear cartilage remains soft and is more likely to respond to molding therapy. Duration of treatment is typically four to eight weeks. Treatment usually is not as effective once the child reaches 12 to 14 weeks of age.

Examples of ear deformities that may be treated without surgery include:

• Protruding ear: ears that protrude from the head.
• Constricted ear: flattened or rolled outer ears.
• Stahl's ear: a pointed outer ear.

Ear Deformities Helped by Surgery

• Skin tags
• Ear pits
• Preauricular sinus
• Complex ear reconstruction for microtia or anotia