Newborn parents
Noticed something about your baby’s ear?
You are not overreacting. Many newborns have ears that look folded, pointed or uneven in the first days of life. Some change on their own and some do not. A short evaluation will tell you which is likely for your baby and what your options are.
What to do now
- Take a few clear photos. Photograph both ears from the side in good light, and again a few days later. Photos help you describe what you see, but they do not replace an exam.
- Mention it to your pediatrician. Your baby’s doctor can look at the ears during a newborn visit and refer you if needed. You can also call us directly.
- Call us for an evaluation. Tell our team your baby’s date of birth and what you have noticed. We will help you choose the nearest office and the soonest suitable time.
- Bring your questions. At the visit, a clinician examines both ears and explains whether molding may help, what treatment involves, and what it may cost.
Why we suggest calling soon
A newborn’s ear cartilage is usually at its softest in the first weeks after birth. Molding works with that softness, so earlier evaluation gives your baby the most options. That does not mean it is ever too late to ask. If your baby is already several weeks old, our clinicians will look at your baby’s ears and tell you honestly what molding can and cannot do. Read more about timing.
Ear shapes parents often notice
- The top of the ear folds down or forward (lidding)
- A pointed upper edge or extra fold (Stahl’s ear)
- An ear that stands out from the head (prominent ear)
- A rim that looks tight, curled or flattened (constricted ear, helical rim)
- The upper ear seems tucked into the scalp (cryptotia)
What we will ask when you call
- Your baby’s name and date of birth, and whether your baby was born early
- Which ear or ears you are concerned about
- Your pediatrician’s name, if you have one
- Your insurance plan, so our coordinator can check benefits
Please do not email photos or medical details through general email or social media messages. Our team will explain the secure way to share information if it is needed.
Guides for the first weeks
Your first visit
What to bring, what happens, and what comes next.
Baby born with a folded ear
What a “folded ear” may mean, and what to do next.
Will newborn ears correct themselves?
What is known about natural change, and how to decide what to do.
Understanding your newborn’s ear shape
The parts of the ear, normal variation, and what causes shape differences.
Aftercare at home during ear molding
Bathing, sleeping and skin checks while your baby wears the device.
Ear molding cost and insurance
What affects cost, what is included, and how to get an estimate.
Questions from newborn parents
What should I do first if my baby’s ear looks unusual?
Take clear photos of both ears, mention it to your pediatrician, and call 214-540-1428 to request an evaluation. You do not need to wait to see whether it changes before asking.
How soon should my baby be seen?
As soon as you can comfortably arrange it. Ear cartilage is generally easier to shape in the first weeks, so earlier evaluation keeps more options open. Our team will help you find a suitable time.
What happens at the first visit?
A clinician examines both ears, asks about your baby’s birth and health, and explains whether molding may help. If treatment is recommended, the team discusses the plan and costs with you. Prepare for your first visit.
My baby is a few weeks old. Is it too late?
Not necessarily. Our clinicians assess older babies individually and will explain what molding is likely to achieve at your baby’s age. Please call 214-540-1428 rather than ruling it out yourself.
Will my insurance cover the visit?
Many plans cover evaluation and treatment, but coverage depends on your plan. Our insurance coordinator can check your benefits. Learn about insurance.
Talk with our team today
Call 214-540-1428 or request an evaluation. We will help you choose the nearest office in Dallas, Southlake or McKinney.