Pinna Abnormalities & Low-Set Ears

Also known as: abnormality of the pinna.

What are low set ears and pinna abnormalities in infants?

The pinna is another term for the outer ear. When abnormalities occur with the shape or location of the ears when the baby is still growing in the womb, this may be the sign of certain medical conditions.

It's perfectly normal and natural for babies to have different ear shapes or orientations. However, signs of potential medical conditions may include:

• Low-set ears
• No opening for the ear canal
• No outer ear
• Abnormal folds in the outer ear
• No outer ear or ear canal

Causes of low set ears and pinna abnormalities in infants?

In some cases, pinna abnormalities and low-set ears may not be related to other conditions. However, they are also a sign of conditions such as:

• Down syndrome
• Turner syndrome
• Potter syndrome
• Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome
• Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome
• Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome
• Treacher Collins syndrome
• Trisomy 13
• Trisomy 18

How are low set ears and pinna abnormalities in infants treated?

If your child has pinna abnormalities and/or low-set ears and has already been cleared of any associated medical conditions, then  available treatment is dependent on the type of difference in the pinna and age of the child.

In some cases, no treatment is required. However, surgery or cosmetic surgery may be recommended to enhance the appearance or function of the ears. These options include:

• The removal of skin tags without cartilage, or the surgical removal of skin tags with cartilage.
• The use of tape or Steri-Strips to correct ears that stick out.
• Surgical correction of ears that stick out after the age of five.

More extensive surgery for ears with functional problems or missing parts.

When should you seek medical attention?

If your child has a pinna abnormality, the pediatrician will typically diagnose it during your first well-baby exam and go through the steps ahead with you in detail. It may require several procedures over the coming months and years to correct your baby’s abnormality, but it depends on the nature and severity of the abnormality. Some do not require any treatment.

If you are worried about potential low set ears in your child, schedule an appointment with a pediatrician near you.