Otoplasty Blogs

Have you ever seen a person with pointed or elf-like ears? That person may have Stahl’s ear, a congenital imperfection of the ear. These ears are also sometimes called Spock’s ears, after the character in Star Trek. Many types of congenital ear deformities can be corrected through ear surgery (otoplasty). 

One of these conditions is known as Stahl’s Ear. It is a malformation of the cartilage in the upper external ear that is recognizable by the elf shape with flat and pointed upper helix.

What are the causes of Stahl’s Ear?

The upper third of the ear normally has two folds that create the triangular depression known as the triangular fossa.  In Stahl’s ear, there is frequently a third fold that terminates in a pointed area at the junction of the upper and middle thirds of the external ear.

Have you ever seen a person with pointed or elf-like ears? That person may have Stahl’s ear, a congenital imperfection of the ear. These ears are also sometimes called Spock’s ears, after the character in Star Trek. Many types of congenital ear deformities can be corrected through ear surgery (otoplasty). 

One of these conditions is known as Stahl’s Ear. It is a malformation of the cartilage in the upper external ear that is recognizable by the elf shape with flat and pointed upper helix.

What are the causes of Stahl’s Ear?

The upper third of the ear normally has two folds that create the triangular depression known as the triangular fossa.  In Stahl’s ear, there is frequently a third fold that terminates in a pointed area at the junction of the upper and middle thirds of the external ear.

The exact cause of this malformation is still unclear.  Stahl’s ear is more common in individuals with certain ethnic backgrounds but can be found in all races and ethnic groups.

How can it be treated?

If detected at birth, Stahl’s ear can be treated effectively in the first few weeks of life with ear molding. This is a non-surgical technique that uses a splint-like tool to permanently mold the shape of the ear. 

If not recognized at birth, the deformity is treated surgically with good results. Dr. Thorne varies the surgical technique depending on the severity of the anomaly but frequently makes a surgical incision just inside the helical rim to reshape the pointed portion of the ear and remove the extra fold.

What can you expect during recovery?

After the surgery, your doctor will loosely wrap padded bandages around your head to protect your ears and absorb any bloody oozing from the incisions. Dr. Thorne may ask you to wear a loose headband during the night.   

Adults can return to work within a week after the surgery and children can generally go back to school after a similar recovery period.

Find out more about Stahl’s ear and other congenital deformities like prominent ears, macrotia, cryptotia, and microtia. Set an appointment with us, Dr. Thorne is a plastic surgery specialist with more than 30 years of experience. He performs both reconstructive and cosmetic procedures for the ear.