Prominent Ears (Bat ears)
Definition
Prominence of the ears is a subjective condition; about 1 - 2% of the United Kingdom
population consider their ears to be excessively prominent. The rim of the ear
(helix) protrudes 1 - 2cm from the scalp in most individuals; those individuals
whose ears are more prominent than this may perceive their ears as being abnormally
prominent.
Incidence/Age/Sex
Prominent ears are a congenital condition (present at birth). Males and females
are equally affected.
Causes/Preventions
The condition is commonly due to lack of folding of the ear cartilage whilst a
baby is developing in the womb. The reason for this lack of folding is not known.A
family trend is often noted.
Signs & Symptoms
Ear prominence may be due to:
- A missing or poorly developed cartilage fold (ante-helix),
- an excessively deep ear-well (concha),
- an increased angle between the back of the ear and the side of the head,
- or any combination of the above.
One or both ears may be affected; one ear may be more affected than the other.
Other deformities of the ear include:
- Constricted ear (cup ear or lop-ear) - where the ear is small, prominent
and cupped.
- Cryptotia - in which the upper part of the ear is abnormally buried in the
skin of the scalp.
- Prominence of the ears makes them appear excessively long and wide; hence
the taunts “Big-ears”, “Dumbo”, “Wing-nut” etc. Teasing is rarely complained
of until children reach the age of 6 - 7 years.
Complications of Disorder
Except in very rare cases the hearing is normal. Psychological problems are
much more common and teasing and bullying may result in loss of self-confidence.
Tests
No special tests are necessary
Treatment
Non-operative
During the first few weeks of life the cartilage of a baby’s ear is soft and
may be moulded by external pressure. If an ear is noted to be prominent, or
abnormally shaped, during this time, it may be possible to reshape the ear by
applying a small splint, held with tapes, to the ear rim. The splint needs to
be worn continually for several weeks; the correction achieved is permanent.
With increasing age the cartilage stiffens and the duration of splintage needs
to be longer. After six months the technique is not effective and an operation
may be required.
Surgical - (Operation)
Operations to correct prominent ears can be grouped into operations that:
- Excise cartilage,
- mould or reposition the cartilage with stitches,
- mould the cartilage with scoring or sculpturing,
- or any combination of the above.
Outcome
Untreated prominent ears remain prominent.
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