Macrotia

Macrotia refers to an ear that is larger than would be expected. The normal auricular axis length is among females and among males. The average width of an adult ear, specifically the distance between the helix root and the posterior auricle, is between.

Treatment

Macrotia is an external ear malformation and is not known to cause any hearing impairment on its own, although it may occasionally occur simultaneously with other developmental disorders that do affect hearing. Treatment is typically not necessary, although patients may seek cosmetic treatment. In some cases, surgery is performed to reduce the ear size. While generally considered a cosmetic procedure, otoplasty for macrotia can improve overall quality of life, especially for young patients who may be able to avoid reduced self-esteem and social avoidance behavior due to large ears. Otoplasty for macrotia typically focuses on reducing the size of the scapha, which is the concave region of the ear between the helix and antihelix ridge, while preserving ear shape and contour.