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Spontaneous Resolution of Ear Lidding in Newborns: A Prospective Observational Cohort Study
Julie Pauwels1, D Y D Lu1,2, Frederick K Kozak1,2
1University of British Columbia.
Insights
Most newborns with ear lidding experience spontaneous resolution within 40 days, suggesting non-surgical cosmetic treatments may not be necessary for mild cases. This finding offers reassurance for parents and physicians regarding the natural progression of this common ear deformity.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal care
- Pediatric dermatology
- Cosmetic surgery
Background:
- Ear lidding is a common cosmetic deformity in newborns.
- While benign, it can cause psychological distress later in life.
- Nonsurgical correction methods are increasingly popular, but data on natural progression is limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the natural progression and resolution of ear lidding in newborns.
- To evaluate the potential for spontaneous resolution without intervention.
Main Methods:
- A case series of 11 newborns with ear lidding was observed.
- Ten newborns were monitored for natural progression.
- One newborn received molding and splinting treatment.
Main Results:
- Complete spontaneous resolution of ear lidding occurred in all 10 observed newborns within an average of 40 days.
- The one newborn who received treatment had parents who self-selected for the intervention.
Conclusions:
- Ear lidding often resolves spontaneously in newborns, potentially negating the need for cosmetic treatment in milder cases.
- Further research with controlled studies is needed to identify infants requiring intervention.
- Findings may reassure families and physicians about the high likelihood of spontaneous resolution.
Abstract:
Ear lidding is a cosmetic outer ear shape deformity commonly observed in newborns. Although lidding is considered a benign condition, psychological concerns such as bullying and depression have been observed in older children supporting correction of the condition. Nonsurgical correction of lidding using molding and splinting techniques has become increasingly popular, achieving successful outcomes in the majority of cases. Spontaneous resolution of the condition has also been reported in the literature however there is minimal prospective data available on the natural progression of ear lidding. In our case series of 11 closely followed newborns, we aimed to characterize the natural progression and resolution of lidding. Ten consecutive newborns participated in the observation plan and all 10 had complete spontaneous resolution of lidding within an average of 40 days. One other newborn's parents self-selected to have molding and splinting treatment. These results suggest that cosmetic treatment for less severe cases of ear lidding may be unnecessary as they have the potential to resolve on their own. Future research in this area could include controlled study designs and more work is needed to identify, which infants will require treatment. Our study may provide helpful reassurance to families and physicians that many newborns may see complete resolution of lidding without intervention.
