Ear Molding

Conveniently Located to Serve Minneapolis-St. Paul and Washington County

Gentle, Effective Correction for Newborn Ear Shape Concerns

When a baby’s ears look folded, misshapen, or stick out more than usual, it’s natural to wonder whether they’ll grow into a more typical shape or if something should be done. Many ear differences won’t resolve on their own. At Midwest Facial Plastic Surgery, we offer non-surgical infant ear molding to address these concerns early, without anesthesia or incisions. With offices across the Minneapolis–St. Paul and Washington County areas, we help families act early while results are most effective and least invasive.

What Is Infant Ear Molding?

Infant ear molding is a non-invasive treatment that gently guides a baby’s ear cartilage into a more typical shape during the first weeks of life.

The ideal time to begin treatment is within the first three weeks of life. During this period, maternal estrogen keeps the ear cartilage soft and moldable. After six weeks, the cartilage begins to stiffen, and reshaping becomes much harder or no longer possible.

This short window allows cartilage to be reshaped without surgery. A custom-fitted device holds the ear in a corrected position, allowing natural development to occur over a few weeks.

Conditions Treated with Ear Molding

Ear molding is used for infants with ear deformities caused by folding, compression, or abnormal development. It can help correct lidding (where the top folds over), prominent ears, constricted ears, or ears that appear uneven.

It is not used for conditions involving missing ear structures. During your consultation, we examine your child’s ears to determine whether molding is the right approach.

How the Ear Molding Process Works

Your first visit includes an evaluation and a discussion about your baby’s ear shape. If ear molding is appropriate, we gently fit the device in our office without sedation or anesthesia.

The device stays in place continuously and is adjusted during follow-up visits as your baby grows. Treatment typically lasts four to six weeks. We’ll provide clear instructions for home care and help you track your child’s progress.

What to Expect After Treatment

Most infants adapt quickly to wearing the device. It is soft, secure, and designed not to interfere with daily life. Some babies may show mild skin redness or pressure marks, which usually fade on their own.

Once treatment is complete, the ears usually hold their corrected shape permanently. Additional procedures are rarely needed.

Benefits of Infant Ear Molding

This early, non-surgical correction can eliminate the need for surgery later in life. The process is gentle and doesn’t involve pain, anesthesia, or recovery time.

For many families, this approach means avoiding future self-consciousness or emotional stress as their child grows. When started early, ear molding often delivers permanent, natural-looking results.

Cost of Infant Ear Molding in Minneapolis–St. Paul

Treatment cost depends on whether one or both ears are involved and your child’s specific condition. Some insurance plans cover the procedure when it’s considered medically necessary. We’ll help you understand your coverage and financing options before starting treatment so there are no surprises.

Why Choose Midwest Facial Plastic Surgery?

Our board-certified facial plastic surgeons specialize in cosmetic and reconstructive care for patients of all ages. We’ve helped families across Minneapolis–St. Paul and Washington County correct newborn ear shape concerns safely and effectively.

Every child receives a thoughtful, personalized evaluation and care plan. We take the time to answer your questions clearly so you feel supported every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

How soon should we start treatment?

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The best time to begin is within the first two to three weeks after birth. After six weeks, the cartilage becomes firmer and less responsive to molding.

Is the ear molding device safe for newborns?

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Yes. It is made from soft, medical-grade materials designed for newborns. It stays in place gently and doesn’t interfere with feeding, sleep, or daily comfort.

Does ear molding hurt?

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No. The process is non-invasive and pain-free. Most babies adjust within hours and go about their routine without discomfort.

How long will results last?

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When treatment starts early and continues as recommended, results are usually permanent. No further care is typically needed once the cartilage hardens into the new shape.

Will insurance cover the cost?

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Some insurance plans cover the treatment if it is medically necessary. Our team will help you confirm your benefits and assist with documentation.

Schedule an Ear Molding Consultation in Minneapolis–St. Paul

Early action makes a lasting difference if your baby’s ears look different or uneven. Contact Midwest Facial Plastic Surgery to schedule a consultation. We’ll help you understand your options and provide the care your child needs at just the right time.

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Thanks Amie for an amazing hydro facial. Amie pays attention to detail and is always checking in with me to make sure I am doing ok. My face always looks glowing and feels so soft. She is so kind and caring.
Thank you Amie!

I have been going to Midwest Facial for over 20 years. Everyone I have ever met with there has been very professional, friendly and seemed to have my best interest at heart. This is also a fun group of people which makes going there a pleasure. I highly recommend.

DR. GRIFFIN IS THE G.O.A.T. He is knowledgeable, experienced, compassionate and tactful when giving recommendations. Excellent bedside manner. Definitely helped improve my condition and restore my confidence. I am so happy with my results. The staff from the nurse to front desk person were kind, courteous and professional. 10/10 I highly recommend going to this clinic.

Dr. Tolan and the entire staff at Midwest Facial and Plastic Surgery have helped me so much. I am so fortunate to have been treated by him... The entire experience has been so wonderful I don't know why I waited so long?

I have been a client of Midwest Facial Plastic Surgery for around a decade. The staff is so friendly and courteous. My treatments have exceeded my expectations and family/friends are complimenting me on how healthy my skin looks.

Every single person I met during my visit was warm, compassionate, knowledgeable, supportive and helpful. I felt like I was their most important patient of the day even though they had a full schedule. I left my appointment with a full understanding of my options and next steps.

Dr. Farhood made me very comfortable with the procedure from the beginning to the end… He truly cares about us people! He is very confident in his work and that says a lot.

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Before + After Results

View before and after photos of surgeries performed by facial plastic surgeons Dr. Christopher Tolan, Dr. Garrett Griffin, Dr. Zachary Farhood, Dr. Sebastian Sciegienka, and Dr. Anna Bakeman in Minneapolis, MN.

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