Evaluation and treatment of the deformed and malformed auricle

Auricular malformations begin within the first few weeks of intrauterine growth. Less severe deformational abnormalities occur from abnormal fetal positioning. They can be corrected early after birth by simple reshaping and molding. No longer should the pediatrician wait for minor deformities to resolve spontaneously. The protruding ear may not be present at birth but may develop and worsen during the first year. The most severe anomalies require complex multistage reconstructions after other concomitant anomalies are excluded. The pediatrician must be an integral part of this reconstructive team.