If you’re one of the 1-2% of people in Europe whose ears stick out more than usual, you might sometimes feel a bit uncomfortable or self-conscious about it. It’s pretty common and for most folks, it’s just a part of who they are. But if it bothers you, there are ways to address it.
Now, having ears that stick out doesn’t affect your hearing or health. It’s purely a cosmetic thing. However, if you feel like it’s affecting how you feel about yourself or how you interact with others, that’s completely valid. The good thing is that there are both non-surgical and surgical options available if you decide you want to change their appearance. Plus, understanding the condition can make a big difference in how you feel about it.
In this blog, Consultant Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeon Anca Breahna covers everything you need to know about overly prominent ears, including the reasons they occur and the full range of treatments available, from simple at-home methods to professional medical procedures.
The formation of protruding ears primarily stems from genetic factors. As you developed in the womb, the cartilage in your ears may not have folded inward as much as it typically does for most people. This lack of folding is what causes the ears to stick out from the sides of the head. It’s a common variation and is not associated with any issues in hearing ability.
For many parents, the prospect of addressing protruding ears in their infants can be approached effectively without the need for surgery. Early intervention plays a key role in this process, particularly through non-surgical methods that are both safe and effective for young children. Here’s a breakdown of the most common non-surgical treatments available:
Ear Moulding Techniques
This is ideally started within the first few weeks after birth. The ear cartilage in new-borns is extremely soft due to higher levels of circulating maternal hormones and responds well to moulding. This technique involves the use of soft braces or splints that gently guide the developing cartilage into a more typical shape. The success rate of this method is quite high, provided it’s initiated early, generally within the first six weeks of life.
Soft Braces
These are custom-designed for the individual infant’s ears and are typically worn continuously for a few weeks. The braces are not painful and are usually well-tolerated by infants. Parents are trained on how to apply and care for these devices to ensure they are effective and comfortable for the baby.
Compression Headbands
If the opportunity for ear moulding has passed, which is usually around the age of six months, compression headbands are an alternative. These headbands apply gentle pressure to the ears, encouraging them to grow closer to the head. While they are less effective than direct moulding, they can still provide noticeable improvements, especially in younger children who are still in the rapid growth phase.
When non-surgical treatments are not suitable or if you desire a more permanent solution to address protruding ears, surgical options such as otoplasty become a viable choice. Otoplasty, commonly referred to as ear pinning, is a surgical procedure that modifies the shape, position, or size of the ears through a variety of techniques. Here’s a detailed look at the techniques involved:
Otoplasty offers a permanent solution for altering the appearance of protruding ears, providing both cosmetic and psychological benefits. If you’re considering this option, it’s important to discuss all aspects of the surgery, including the potential risks and expected outcomes, with Anca who regularly performs ear pinning surgery.
When considering otoplasty, or ear pinning surgery, the timing can significantly impact the effectiveness of the procedure and the comfort of the patient. Generally, it’s advised that children be at least five years old before undergoing this surgery. By this age, the ear cartilage has matured and stabilised enough to undergo correction and maintain its new shape post-surgery.
Waiting until the ear cartilage is stable is essential for achieving lasting results. If performed too early, the ongoing development of the child’s ears can negate the initial benefits of the procedure. Additionally, by the age of five, the ear has typically reached close to its full adult size, making it an ideal time for correction that will align with the child’s natural growth.
Another significant consideration for performing otoplasty around this age is the social and educational context. Starting school can be a challenging time, and children are becoming more aware of their peers and the differences among them. Unfortunately, noticeable physical differences, such as protruding ears, can sometimes lead to teasing or bullying. Addressing ear protrusion before these social challenges arise can help alleviate potential emotional distress. This can make school a more positive experience and promote a happier social interaction during these formative years.
However, otoplasty is not limited to children. Adults who feel that their ear appearance affects their social interactions or personal satisfaction can also opt for this surgery. In adult cases, the procedure is similar, but the approach may vary slightly due to the decreased pliability of adult cartilage compared to children.
This important meeting with Anca is where you will discuss your eligibility for the procedure, realistic expectations, and the surgical techniques that might be used, such as pinning, scoring, or suturing.
During the consultation, expect to:
The actual surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure under local anaesthesia with sedation, taking about two hours. General anaesthesia may be used for children or according to patient preference.
Post-Surgery Care:
Recovery varies but generally involves some discomfort, swelling, and bruising initially. Bandages support the new ear position, followed by lighter dressings and possibly a night-time headband. Most patients resume normal activities within a week, with full healing taking up to six months.
The cost of otoplasty varies but can range from £2500 to £4500 in UK, covering all associated fees. It’s often considered a cosmetic procedure, so insurance may not cover it.