Infant ear deformity, which affects a significant number of babies worldwide, can be remedied with two separate modalities. While surgical correction is an option, it comes with risks and potential complications. Thankfully, Wellspring Pediatric Plastics offers a less invasive alternative: infant ear molding. Not only is it effective, but it’s also a safer and less risky option than delayed surgical treatment. Let’s explore why more and more parents are turning to ear molding as the preferred method for treating their little ones.
Infant ear molding can be a great option to improve and maintain a desired shape for babies born with congenital ear deformities. In many cases, it can reduce the need for surgery all together or make future surgeries less invasive. It can also improve ear function in the setting of being able to wear glasses (or masks). It can also help prevent lifelong psychosocial stressors and self-consciousness.
Though risks are relatively low, any medical intervention isn’t without some risk. The biggest risk for ear molding is skin breakdown. This is usually a very small ulceration and typically heals overnight once ear molding is removed. Occasionally, a baby can have mild skin irritation or allergy to the adhesive. Other uncommon risks include infection, bleeding, or bruising. When started before 2 weeks of age there is a >90% chance of successful outcome, though there’s always a small risk of incomplete correction. Another downside we always want parents to be aware of it that we do have to shave a rim of hair around the baby’s ear to allow the adhesive to stick directly to the skin.
All in all, infant ear molding is a very safe and low risk process. By the time your baby is 8 weeks old treatment is typically complete; so when it comes to treating infant ear deformities, the benefits of ear molding over surgical correction are crystal clear. With minimal risks and a high success rate, it’s no wonder why more and more parents are opting for this method to ensure their baby’s ears develop properly. Not only is it less traumatic for the child, but in most cases, it also saves parents the worry and stress of a surgical procedure. So if you’re a parent whose child is experiencing ear deformities, consider ear molding as a safe and effective option for your little one by contacting our office at pediatics@thewsps.com.
