Otoplasty for Protruding Ears, Cryptotia, or Stahl’s Ear

If the neonate with protruding ears, mildly constricted ears, a Stahl’s ear, or even cryptotia is seen by the plastic surgeon during the child’s first days of life, the timing is auspicious. By initiating immediate steps to mold the ear with tapes and splints, complete correction of the problem without surgery is a realistic expectation. The urgency and the effectiveness of early nonsurgical treatment of such ears is not yet widely appreciated by those responsible for primary medical care of neonates. It is the plastic surgeon’s task to heighten awareness of such treatment.