Bat & Prominent Ears

Prominent ears can also be called ‘bat ears’ or ‘protruding ears’. The physical appearance of this common concern sees the ears sticking out from the head, to a degree that many affected people consider to be more than the norm. This concern can be caused by genetics or may occur randomly. In most cases, prominent ears are often experienced from childhood with approximately 1 – 2% of the population being affected.

The anatomy of the ear is quite complex, with delicate skin that covers over tough cartilage. During early development the ears can be affected by a lack of cartilage as well as malformation. When the growth of the cartilage has been disrupted this can be what leads to prominent looking ears. As well as genetics, this condition can form as a result of a health condition or through injury, and may form on one (unilateral) or both (bilateral) of the ears.

Possessing prominent / bat ears does not usually affect the normal functioning of the ear, but it can cause psychological difficulties, many of which will sadly have arisen from childhood. Aesthetically, prominent ears can be noticeable to others, especially if a person prefers to keep their hair short. The appearance of ears that ‘stick out’ can often draw people to them, which can cause a person to feel self-conscious about their appearance.

The decision to correct this condition will often go a long way to making a person feel better about the way they look. At Reshape & Restore, a pinnaplasty procedure can be performed, which remodels the cartilage so that the ears can be pulled in to sit closer to the head. The results can produce a more natural look to the positioning of the ear.