See also: Ear Surgery & Earlobe Repair
Ear deformities come in many forms. The most simple involve the growth of extra tissue, such as a "skin tag" just in front of the ear. These lesions can be treated with simple excision.
More complex ear deformities include:
- prominent ears
- lop ear or cup ear
- Stahl's ear (pointed ears)
- cryptotia (outside top of ears tucked into the scalp)
Many of these conditions can be treated with non-surgical ear molding if treatment is started within the first weeks of life. If the deformity continues into childhood, repair is generally delayed until approximately age 5 or later.
Decisions about whether to have surgery, the age at which surgery is performed, and the techniques used to correct the deformity are all done with each child's specific needs in mind.
We encourage parents to seek consultation at the first sign of an ear deformity. Dr. Hancey, Dr. John Clayton, and Dr. David Clayton will help create a treatment plan that meets the individual needs of your child.