Constricted Ears
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Constricted Ears

Cup ears or lop ears happen when the ear's rim is constricted or tightened. As a result, the ear appears to be rolled in a tube or the ear remains in a folded or flattened appearance or with decreased height.  It is a congenital deformity that can be present at birth or develop over time.

When the top helical rim of the ear is folded to a certain degree, it is referred to as constricted or lop ear. It is almost similar to the lidding deformity appearance. In some severe conditions, the scapha and helical rim cartilage form a cup shape or tight roll shape. The condition is almost like prominent or protruding ears when the subordinate lobe is pushed forward. The cupping results in protruding of the ear from the head.

Symptoms of constricted ears

Some of the symptoms of the constricted ear are as follows:

  • Protrusion
  • Lower ear position
  • Folded down and forward or lop deformity
  • Decreased ear size

Constricted ear causes the ear to look small and tight against the head. The condition can be unilateral or bilateral, which means that it can affect one ear or both.

Causes of constricted ears

Developmental/trauma:  In the developing ear, any damage to the cartilage or trauma during birth can lead to constriction of the ear. Most constricted ear deformities happen because of some tissue deficiency such as skin or cartilage leading to the inadequate development of helix or ear rim cartilage. Also, due to the abnormal growth of other parts of the ear, constricted ears can develop.

In many cases, it has been seen that trauma during birth is one of the leading causes of developmental deformities like constricted ears.

If a person is suffering from any kind of viral or bacterial infection, they might experience some swelling in the ear. This can further damage the ear cartilage and have chances lead to constricted ears.

What are the treatment options for constricted ears?

Reconstructive ear surgery: 

Reconstructive ear surgery is a type of plastic surgery that is performed to correct birth defects or deformities of the ear. It can also be performed to treat injuries or to improve the function or appearance of the ear. Various techniques can be used for reconstructive ear surgery, and the type of surgery that is performed will depend on the specific deformity that needs to be corrected. In some cases, the surgeon may need to use a combination of techniques to achieve the desired results. The three main kinds of reconstructive surgery are surgery due to cancer or trauma, otoplasty surgery, and anotia or microtia surgery. Each surgery has its advantages and features.

Osseo integrated implants and prostheses:

Osseo integrated implants and prostheses are devices that are surgically implanted into the bones to provide support for artificial limbs or body parts. They are commonly used in people who have lost limbs due to injury or disease.

Osseo integrated implants and prostheses can be used to correct several different deformities, including constricted ears. In cases where the ear is misshapen due to an injury or birth defect, an implant can be used to support the ear and restore its normal shape. In cases where the entire ear is missing, an artificial ear can be attached to the implant.

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