Pediatric Otoplasty and Auricular Molding

With the advent of widespread use of commercial ear molding products, the literature addressing the indications for and timing of perinatal intervention in auricular deformations and malformations has increased significantly. Although the rationale for perinatal ear molding seems to be hormonally mediated, the common assertion that breastfeeding may prolong the window of effective intervention remains without convincing evidence. The common auricular anomalies as well as indications, timing, and methodology of effective intervention including ear molding or surgical otoplasty are reviewed herein.

Automated summary

With the increasing use of commercial ear molding products, there has been a significant increase in literature addressing the indications and timing of perinatal intervention in auricular deformations and malformations. The reason for perinatal ear molding seems to be hormonally mediated, but the common belief that breastfeeding may lengthen the window of effective intervention lacks convincing evidence. This review discusses the common auricular anomalies, as well as the indications, timing, and methods of effective intervention, including ear molding or surgical otoplasty.