Is There Any Way to Fix Ueven Ears?

Question

I have uneven ears, it make my face uneven. It seems that my left ear dropped 1 cm. Is there anyway to fix it? (so they will correct in horizontal position) Is it caused by bad jaw?

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

A photo would help. It is the norm to have asymmetry in the size, shape and/or position of your ears. A board certified plastic surgeon experienced in performing otoplasty may be able to reduce this asymmetry, depending on the cause.

Matthew Richardson, MD · Answer

Most people have some degree of facial asymmetry. This may be reflected in asymmetric brow position, orbital shape, cheek shape, ear position, jaw shape, and other areas. When it comes to the ears in particular, it is important to realize that people do not generally recognize small asymmetries between the two ears because it is very difficult to see both ears simultaneously and assess them in detail. Usually most people are only able to see one ear at a time as they look at someone else.
That being said, if there is an asymmetry between the position of the ears on the head, there is no easy way to fix this. The ear canal position cannot be changed as it is a bony and cartilaginous canal that extends into the skull. Asymmetric ear position such as an overly prominent ear lobe or overly protuberant ear on one side could be corrected, but the position of the ear as a whole cannot be changed (at least not in an aesthetically-pleasing and still functional manner).
All the best,

Richard J. Bruneteau, MD · Answer

Facial asymmetry is an extremely
common phenomena and is present in almost everyone to some degree.  In most cases, it’s barely noticeable,
but occasionally it’s severe and treatment may be necessary.

Asymmetry of the ears can occur for
a variety of reasons and is often associated with facial asymmetry.  This asymmetry may be related to the
size, shape, position and location of the ear. Depending upon the
characteristics of the asymmetry, treatment may or may not be possible.

When ear asymmetry is associated
with facial asymmetry it’s not unusual for one side of the face to have a
depressed orbital rim, flattened cheekbone and an ear that’s lower and further
back then the opposite side.  When
this situation arises, it’s possible in some cases to disguise the
asymmetry.  Unfortunately, when the
entire ear is malpositioned it’s impossible to correct the deformity entirely
because the position of the ear canal can’t be changed.

It’s important to realize that every
patient with facial asymmetry needs a careful analysis.  Treatment will vary from patient to
patient and will depend on their underlying facial anatomy.  Without a physical examination, it’s
impossible to make a definitive diagnosis and formulate a treatment plan.  If you’re considering treatment, it’s
important that you meet with a board certified plastic surgeon who can help you
with this decision.

Otto Joseph Placik, MD · Answer

There may be a variety of reasons for the uneven horizontal orientation of your ears (dystopia). These can be due to soft tissue or boney asymmetry. You should meet with plastic surgeon for an evaluation and recommendation of treatment options.

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

I'm not sure what you're describing. It's unusual for an adult ear to undergo a significant change in position.

	Otoplasty Surgery is commonly performed for ears that are too prominent and stick out too far. Surgery can be performed on one side if only one protrudes.

	You should consult a board-certified Otoplasty surgeon to discuss your options, and see if you're a candidate for this type of surgery.

	I hope this is helpful for you.

Robert O. Ruder, MD · Answer

Therrtherr
There are several procedures to correct asymmetrical ears
We need to review photos to identify the problem(s).
Are your ears at different positions 
Are they different sizes
Are the “anatomical subunits” different
photographs will be helpful to identify the problems

Ryan Chastant, MD · Answer

I appreciate your question and understand your concern. Understand that no face is perfect symmetrical and most asymmetries go unnoticed to those around you. However, if the different positions of your ears is obvious, there are some options that can make the asymmetry less obtrusive. For example, ear pinning positions the ears closer to the sides of the head so they are not as noticeable overall. If the difference is due to something minor like different sizes in the lobes, this can also be corrected with surgery. However, there is no way to actually move one ear up or down in position. My advice is to meet with a surgeon that has ample experience in both plastic surgery and otolaryngology to achieve the best cosmetic result without sacrificing any of the function of the ear. Good luck!

Mark Domanski, MD · Answer

Every person has differences between each side of the body.  For the ears, this can be caused by underlying differences in skeletal development or the soft tissue.
Depending on the cause, various options may by available to either address the root cause, or camouflage the difference.
Each person is different, so for specific advice please seek an in-person consultation.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

There is no real reason to correct the height elevation of the ears. It is really impossible since the ear canal is connected into the center of the skull.

	The ears can be pinned back by re-sculpting, shaping, and suturing the ear cartilage and creating a new anti-helical fold.

Marcus L. Peterson, MD · Answer

Most of the time when you have uneven ears it is because your ear canal are uneven.  The ear canals are part of the skull and there is no reason to consider revising the skull for this problem.

	You can always have a plastic surgeon look at it but there are no standard techniques for elevating an ear vertically.

	Best Wishes.

Is There Any Way to Fix Ueven Ears?

Answers (10)

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