Ear Molding

Some babies are born with deformities or other differences to the outer rim of cartilage (helix) of one or both of their ears. Ear molding is a non-invasive procedure that helps correct these anomalies. The process is most beneficial if it is completed before your baby is 3 months old. The earlier this treatment has begun, the more successful it is likely to be.

How we perform ear molding

The skilled physician assistants inDepartment of Plastic and Oral Surgeryat Boston Children’s Hospital are experienced in the diagnosis and management of infant ear anomalies and perform all ear molding services. You and your baby will need to visit us weekly or bi-weekly for six to eight weeks on average. During these appointments, we will fit a malleable plastic splint under the helix of your baby’s ear, which is held in place with liquid adhesive, tape and molding material. We recommend that you feed your baby during the molding process to make them feel more relaxed.

Your baby will wear the ear molds 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, until the treatment is complete. Treatment time may vary, but usually takes about six to eight weeks. Please keep in mind that ear molding is a cosmetic service that typically isn’t covered by health insurance.

Contact us

Ear molding appointments (both initial consults and follow-up visits), take place at our Boston and Waltham offices:

Boston Children’s Hospital, Plastic and Oral Surgery Clinic
300 Longwood Avenue
Boston, MA 02115
617-355–2733

Boston Children’s Hospital at Waltham, Plastic and Oral Surgery Clinic
9 Hope Avenue
Waltham, MA 02458
781-216-2100

The Boston clinic is located in the Hunnewell building on Floor 1. The Waltham clinic is located on the ground floor in the south wing of Boston Children's at Waltham. Appointments will be in the Plastic & Oral Surgery Clinic. Check-in occurs at the front desk. During check-in, the consult fee is paid. If you decide to move forward with ear molding during the initial visit, the remaining payment will be collected at the end of the appointment.