One of the most common ear deformities are protruding ears. This occurs when there are deformities in the cartilage of the ear that cause the upper rims of the ears to flare outward. Otoplasty, or ear pinning surgery, can be used to provide protruding ear correction. At Eden Plastic Surgery Institute, Dr. Ali Charafeddine offers otoplasty for children and adults at our medical clinic in Miami.
Children and adults with protruding ears will often be teased, even bullied, for the shape of their ears. In addition to the emotional distress of looking different, individuals with ears that stick out have difficulty wearing hats and other accessories. Otoplasty is one of the most common cosmetic surgeries performed on children to reshape their ears early in life to avoid impact to their emotional health and self-confidence.
Protruding Ear Correction Treatments
In some cases, protruding ears can be reshaped right after a child is born. About 30% of children are born with misshapen ears, including protruding ears. Right after birth, the ear cartilage is still flexible due to higher estrogen. Ear molding can change the shape of the cartilage without surgery, but it must be done during the first two months after birth.
For older children or adults, otoplasty is the only option for correcting protruding ears. In children, ear pinning surgery, or otoplasty, can be performed at age 5 or 6, or once the ears are fully formed. This can pull the ears closer to the head and reshape the ears for a more balanced, symmetrical appearance.
Otoplasty, or ear pinning surgery, can make a significant difference in the appearance and self-confidence of those born with protruding or large ears. If you or your child have a protruding ear deformity, contact us at Eden Plastic Surgery Institute. Dr. Ali Charafeddine is an experienced board certified plastic surgeon who can perform natural-appearing protruding ear correction at our medical center in Miami.