Conditions
Prominent Ears
Prominent ears is a name used to describe the appearance of ears that ‘stick out’. This condition can be experienced by anyone of any age, although in most cases, the condition was present at birth. Occasionally it can be caused by an injury or by wearing tight face masks. Those who are affected by prominent ears often feel the concern has impacted their self-confidence, with children especially finding the appearance of their ears gets commented on by their peers. Rarely people with prominent ears can also experience difficulty with hearing, headaches or ringing in the ears.
The main cause of prominent ears is an abnormality in the shape of the ear cartilage. This can occur in one of two ways: when the antihelical fold (the inner c-shaped rim) has not developed properly, or the conchal bowl (the dip in the middle of the outer ear) is too deep. This can happen in either ear, however in most cases, it affects both ears.
Treating prominent ears often requires a surgical procedure known as ‘pinnaplasty’ or “otoplasty”. Bilateral pinnaplasty is performed on both ears, however, the treatment plan will consider each ear individually. The procedure is relatively short, and works to change the shape or structure of the cartilage to help ‘pin back’ the ears. Flatter looking ears can greatly impact a person’s well-being, restoring their self-confidence.
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Related Procedures
Procedure
Pinnaplasty
Prominent ears are most often than not a condition from birth, although occasionally can be caused by an injury.
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Procedure
Pinnaplasty
Prominent ears are most often than not a condition from birth, although occasionally can be caused by an injury.
View Procedure
Ms Anca Breahna, PhD, MSc, FEBOPRAS, FRCS (Plast) is a highly regarded Consultant Plastic Surgeon specialising in the field of Aesthetic and Reconstructive Plastic Surgery. Anca performs a range of 
