My Baby Was Born with an Extra Piece of Skin on the Helix?

Our office repairs earlobes after a traumatic tear of earrings, gauge piercings, or after a facelift in which the earlobes are stretched. Earlobe surgery is composed of several techniques that can either repair torn earlobes (split earlobes) or correct overly redundant earlobe tissue from piercings or genetics or stretching. Our HIDEF earlobe repair includes a recontouring of the earlobe contour using multi-layered sutures to reapproximate the curvature of the earlobe; while simultaneously restoring contour to the ear. In patients with pixie ears after facelift surgery, an alternate technique is used to reduce the dependance of the earlobe on the facelift flap. Facelift surgery can reshape the earlobe and this requires restoration. Sutures are usually taken out within 10 days and the wound is repierced in 4-6 weeks thereafter. Keloid scars must be addressed in patients with known history for scarring.

Keloids are another major reason to undergo earlobe repair if there is a keloid scar nodule that has developed in the earlobe or ear cartilage rim. We use a combination of lasers, injections, and keloid surgery.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

This small skin tag can be easily removed with local anesthesia but I would wait until the child is old enough to put up with that type of procedure.

This might resolve with time. It could be a variant of a "Darwinian tubercle" which is very common. If it is noticeable and causes your child distress it can be removed by a plastic surgeon at 5-6 years old or later. The incision can be hidden in the fold of the ear where it is not noticeable. Congratulations! I hope this information is helpful.

Stephen Weber MD, FACS

Lone Tree Facial Plastic Surgeon

While it is possible that surgery could be done on your baby's ear, I would not recommend that you have the procedure done at this time.  As your baby grows, it's very possible that the issue will take care of itself.  I would wait at least until age 5 before even considering any cosmetic surgery on your baby's ear.  

This is called Darwin's Tubercle and is nothing to be concerned about.  Just wait till your daughter is a little older and then have it excised if it bothers her.  

Regards

Stephen Salerno

 

This is a Darwin's tubercle.  Removal is a very simple procedure but requires general anesthesia.  For this reason, it is frequently delayed until the child is older.  In general, most pediatricians will not clear a baby for surgery until he or she is over 20 pounds/one year old and I typically wait until age 4-5 when the child is able to comprehend what is happening.  It could improve or resolve spontaneously so waiting is appropriate.

This is likely a Darwin's or Darwinian Tubercle.  It can be removed surgically but it would be best to wait until your child is older.  Please consult with a board certified specialist who can assist you when that time comes.

 Dear Mom2six: I agree with the other surgeon that you should not consider surgery for your child at this point. Small irregularities of the ear are not uncommon in newborns and I always advise parents to wait several years before making any decisions. Five years of age is a good time for re-evaluation. 

Most often these irregularities resolve completely on their own. Im sure you have a wonderful baby girl, enjoy every minute of her!

Best, Dr S