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Ear Pinning - (Otoplasty)
Prominent or protruding ears are usually a congenital condition where the individual is born with the outer helix of the ear extending too far from the side of the head. It is not associated with any other medical or developmental abnormalities. It is felt by many to be the result of the way one is positioned in the womb and interference with the normal folding of the ear cartilage.
The anatomical cause of prominent ears is the underdevelopment of a cartilage fold in the ear (the superior crus of the antihelical fold), or from an overly prominent bowl of cartilage opposite the external ear canal, or the combination of the two. Otoplasty, or ear pinning, surgery involves the creation of the underdeveloped cartilage fold, reduction of an enlarged cartilaginous bowl, and securing the outer ear to the scalp. This procedure is performed as an outpatient, and several weeks of ear protection, primarily when sleeping, are required to allow for proper healing and final positioning of the outer ear. The overall changes are frequently dramatic, and the change can greatly influence ones self-confidence.