Otoplasty Blogs

There are many abnormalities and imperfections in ear shape that are congenital (present at birth). Ears can be overly protruding or have an unusual shape or both. These conditions can be treated effectively through ear surgery or otoplasty. If detected at birth and treated within the first few weeks of life, many of these conditions can be treated non-surgically with ear molding.

What is ear molding?

Ear molding is a type of non-surgical treatment that is performed right after birth. This treatment decreases the likelihood and sometimes eliminates the need for corrective surgery when the child is older.  

There are many abnormalities and imperfections in ear shape that are congenital (present at birth). Ears can be overly protruding or have an unusual shape or both. These conditions can be treated effectively through ear surgery or otoplasty. If detected at birth and treated within the first few weeks of life, many of these conditions can be treated non-surgically with ear molding.

What is ear molding?

Ear molding is a type of non-surgical treatment that is performed right after birth. This treatment decreases the likelihood and sometimes eliminates the need for corrective surgery when the child is older.  

The earlier the ear molding is applied, the higher the chance that the abnormal shape will be fully and permanently corrected. Remember that when the baby reaches six to seven weeks old, the ear cartilage hardens, thus making this treatment ineffective.

What conditions does ear molding treat?

There are a number of ear conditions that ear molding can help treat. These include:

Cryptotia

Also known as hidden or buried ear, it is a rare congenital ear anomaly where the upper portion of the external ear is hidden under the skin of the side of the head. Occasionally, the hidden cartilage is also shaped abnormally. In some cases, ear molding can correct it. 

Prominent or Protruding Ears

If the ears protrude excessively from the side of your head, they are considered prominent or protruding ears. Ear molding may improve this condition but many patients eventually require surgical correction to make them happy.

Lop Ears

The term lop ears describe ears in which the upper portion of the ear is folded over. Ear molding is often quite effective.

Stahl’s Ear 

A deformity that occurs when there is an extra fold present on the upper portion of the cartilage of the upper ear creating a pointed shape. You can easily identify it even at birth as it appears elf-like. 

What to expect during the treatment?

Before the treatment begins, your plastic surgeon will thoroughly clean the ear before any liquid adhesive is applied. He or she will then use an external shaping tool that will act as a splint to mold the child’s ear into its proper shape.  Steri-strips and the liquid adhesive are used to secure the splint. 

Don’t worry, ear molding is absolutely painless. Your doctor will then conduct regular exams during the treatment to track the progress of the child’s treatment and address any concerns that may arise. 

If you would like to know more about ear molding, you can set an appointment with us here. Dr. Charles Thorne is an otoplasty specialist and can treat children and adults with congenital and post-traumatic ear deformities.