Infant Ear Molding in Cleveland, OH
Up to 30% of children are born with some type of ear deformity. While some parents are told their baby will “grow out of it,” the reality is that most ear shapes stay the same or can even become more prominent over time. In the past, the only solution was to wait until the child was 5 or 6 years old to undergo a surgical Otoplasty.
Dr. Rodney Green is proud to offer Ear Moulding, a breakthrough non-surgical molding system that can correct infant ear deformities in just a few weeks. By starting treatment shortly after birth, we can reshape the ears while the cartilage is still soft and pliable—eliminating the need for future surgery and preventing a lifetime of self-consciousness.
Why Time is of the Essence
The success of theEar Moulding system depends on early intervention.
- The Estrogen Window: Newborns have high levels of maternal estrogen in their systems, which keeps their ear cartilage extremely soft and moldable.
- The Ideal Start Date: Treatment is most effective when started within the first 1 to 3 weeks of life.
- The Window of Opportunity: As maternal estrogen levels drop (usually by 6 weeks of age), the cartilage begins to harden, and the ears become less receptive to non-surgical molding.
What Ear Moulding Can Correct
The Ear Moulding system is remarkably versatile and can successfully treat over 90% of infant ear deformities, including:
- Protruding Ears: Ears that stick out too far from the head.
- Lop Ear: When the top of the ear folds down or over.
- Stahl’s Ear: A “Spock-like” pointed appearance of the ear rim.
- Cup Ear: When the ear is tight and shaped like a bowl or cup.
- Helical Rim Deformities: Kinks, flat spots, or irregularities in the outer rim of the ear.
How the Ear Moulding Process Works
Ear Moulding is a painless, non-invasive procedure performed right in our office. There is no anesthesia, no needles, and no tears.
- Placement: Dr. Green applies a small, lightweight plastic “cradle” around the baby’s ear. It is held in place by a medical-grade adhesive.
- Molding: Soft internal shapers are placed within the cradle to gently guide the ear into its proper, natural shape.
- The Duration: The baby wears the device 24/7 for approximately 4 to 6 weeks. Most babies are completely unaware they are even wearing it.
The Benefits of Ear Moulding vs. Future Surgery
Your surgery is performed on an outpatient basis at Legacy Surgery Center, where Dr. Green serves as the Medical Director, ensuring the highest standards of safety and care.
- Non-Surgical: No incisions, no scarring, and no risks associated with general anesthesia.
- 90% Success Rate: When started early, the results are permanent and natural-looking.
- Cost-Effective: Often significantly less expensive than a surgical Otoplasty later in life.
- Emotional Well-being: By correcting the ears in infancy, you save your child from the potential of childhood bullying or the anxiety of a future surgery.
Important Note on Your Baby's Treatment
Every infant’s ear anatomy and cartilage stiffness are unique, and as such, results can vary from patient to patient. While Ear Moulding is highly effective, the final shape is dependent on starting the treatment as early as possible.
Dr. Green and our team are here to provide the most gentle care for your newborn. If you notice any redness, skin irritation, or if the device becomes loose, please contact our office at 440-449-8880 immediately. Early communication allows us to adjust the device and ensure the best possible outcome for your child.
Ear Molding FAQs
Is the procedure painful for the baby?
Not at all. The device is applied using adhesive, and the molding process uses gentle, constant pressure that does not bother the infant. Most babies sleep right through the application!
Can I still breastfeed or bathe my baby?
Yes. However, you must be careful during bath time to keep the ear area dry so the adhesive remains secure. Dr. Green will provide specific instructions on how to protect the device.
What if my baby is already 2 months old?
While the best results occur in the first few weeks, it is still worth a consultation. In some cases, if the cartilage is still relatively soft, we can attempt a modified molding process, though the success rate is highest in the “estrogen window.”
Will the ears stay in place once the mold is removed?
Yes. Once the cartilage hardens into the corrected shape during the treatment period, the results are permanent.
Consultation Checklist: Questions to Ask Dr. Green
- Based on my baby’s age today, what is the expected success rate?
- How many weeks do you anticipate my baby will need to wear an Ear Mould?
- How do I keep the device dry during baths?
- What happens if the adhesive starts to peel at home?
