EAR SPLINTING
ABOUT
EAR SPLINTING
Ear Splinting is a non-surgical method of treating abnormally shaped ears. This is most effective if it’s done during the early part of a child’s life. A soft wire frame is used to mold the ear into a more normal shape and this is secured with tape.
By maintaining the ear in this new shape for a few weeks to months, we will be able to reshape the ear, and hence avoid a need for surgery in the future.
Why Does This Happen?
The shape of the helix of the ear is a complicated shape and babies are commonly born with mildly abnormal ears. Some of the ears stick out, fold over, whilst others may be bent too far forward or there may be abnormal creases.
The outer ear begins to develop during the first 3 months of pregnancy and continues to grow with the child. There are many factors that can affect the shape of the ear, including uterine position, genetics and exposure of the child in-utero to medications.
Treatment for Abnormal Shape Ears
Ear splinting is a non-surgical method of treating abnormally shaped ears. This is most effective if it’s done during the early part of a child’s life.
A soft wire frame is used to mold the ear into a more normal shape and this is secured with tape. By maintaining the ear in this new shape for a few weeks to months, we will be able to reshape the ear, and hence avoid a need for surgery in the future.
Ear Splinting
Ear splinting is a non-surgical method of treating abnormally shaped ears. This is most effective if it’s done during the early part of a child’s life.
A soft wire frame is used to mold the ear into a more normal shape and this is secured with tape. By maintaining the ear in this new shape for a few weeks to months, we will be able to reshape the ear, and hence avoid a need for surgery in the future.
Benefits
- Pain-free procedure — comfortable and well-tolerated by infants.
- Quick application — typically takes only 10–20 minutes to complete.
- Cost-effective — offers early correction without the need for surgery.
- Permanent results once the ear shape is corrected.
- Helps prevent future psychological impact related to prominent ears.
- No surgery or anaesthesia required, eliminating surgical risks and recovery time.
🩺 Ear splinting allows gentle correction during early infancy, before the ear cartilage hardens.
PROCEDURES
How Do We Start?
Getting Started
- Ear splinting can begin as early as the first week after birth.
- The earlier the treatment starts, the shorter the duration required for correction.
- During your initial visit, our team will:
-
- Assess your baby’s ear condition.
- Custom-make a splint suited to your child’s needs.
- Show you how to apply and care for the splint at home.
Treatment Duration
- Splints are worn 24 hours a day, and removed briefly each week for cleaning.
- Treatment typically lasts from a few weeks to a few months, depending on progress and age.
- Parents are scheduled for weekly reviews to monitor healing and ensure the skin stays healthy.
INDICATIONS
Ideal candidate for Double Eyelid Creation
If you have a single eyelid or you have a double eyelid but would like it more prominent, you are a good candidate to consider double eyelid creation.
You will need to be assessed by a plastic surgeon. Your desired outcome will be discussed with you and an appropriate treatment plan can be made.
SAFETY
Risks & Considerations
Ear splinting is a safe, non-surgical treatment, but some minor issues may occur during the process.
- Adhesive tapes used in splinting may occasionally irritate the skin.
- The splint is removed every 3–4 days to clean the skin and reduce discomfort.
- Keep the splints and tapes dry, and maintain a cool environment to prevent rashes or irritation.
- As there is no surgery involved, the main risk is that the splint may not fully correct the ear shape.
🩺 Your surgeon will discuss these risks and measures taken to minimise them during consultation.
AFTERCARE
Recovery & Follow Up
The splints are removed for cleaning periodically during the week. It usually takes a few weeks to months to correct the deformity.
We will review the child every week to ensure that skin is kept healthy and to follow-up on the splintage, until no more splinting is needed.
HOW TO START
Arrange a Consultation
If you are considering the treatment with our experienced surgeons, you may book a consultation to discuss suitability, options, and the treatment process based on your medical history and goals.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the treatment for abnormal shape ears?
Depending on the severity of the deformity, different treatments can be suggested at different ages. Many parents are unware that early splinting of the ears can help to correct mild deformities which can avoid the need for surgery at a later age. Many surgeons recommend waiting until the child is at least 5 years old before surgery is done. This is only applicable for more severe deformities that cannot be treated with splinting. Speak to our team at AZATACA today to find out more about what can be done for your child.
Incisional blepharoplasty would be recommended so that the excess skin could be removed at the same time.
🩺 A full evaluation with an MOH-accredited doctor is required to determine suitability for the procedure.
*Disclaimer: Results vary according to individual.
GET IN TOUCH
Book Your Consultation
