What is ear moulding?

Ear moulding is for children born with mild ear deformities. Ear moulding can potentially correct these deformities and negate the need for future, more extensive surgeries.

How does it work?

When a baby is born, they have high levels of estrogen and progesterone in their body as a result from the circulating maternal hormones. The high estrogen and progesterone in their bodies results in higher levels of hyaluronic acid which makes their cartilage very amendable to moulding of the ear cartileg.

Who is suitable for ear moulding?

Ear moulding can be done for most babies with misshaped ears. However, it is not suitable in some cases where the ear is small (microtia). It can be used to correct helical rim abnormalities, cryptotia, Stahl’s ear deformities and prominent concha bowls.

Some common abnormalities that can be corrected include:

  • Protruding ear: also known as prominent ears 
  • Helical rim abnormalities: mild lidding or depressions along the outer rim of the ear
  • Stahl’s ear: when ears have a pointy shape 
  • Lop ear: when ears are folded on itself

   

What is the best age for this procedure?

This procedure is best done as soon as possible. Preferably before 3-4 weeks of age. Please check with your medical professional for more details.

How long is the process?

The whole process may take 4-6 weeks to complete. It varies from individuals and may depend on the degree of the deformity.

What are some of the most common side effects?

The most common side effect would be skin related complications such as skin sensitivity, rashes and infection. Most of these complications are minor and the skin should heal normally.

   

How should I prepare for the procedure?

The procedure is painless and does not require any anesthesia. Please ensure your baby is well fed before the procedure and bring allow their swaddle and their favorite pacifier
(if they have one).

What should I expect during the procedure?

It typically takes about 10-20 minutes for each ear. We would need to shave a portion of baby’s hair to ensure that the device adheres well to the skin.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I expect from my first ENT specialist visit?

Your ENT doctor will first take a look at your medical history, find out more about the symptoms you’re experiencing and thereafter perform a thorough physical examination. This may include certain procedures such as flexible nasoendoscopy (a look into your nasal passages with a tiny camera). Your issues will be addressed and a suitable treatment plan will be devised for you.

How do I prepare my child for the first visit to the ENT clinic?

Always talk to your child to prepare them for their ENT visit. Find out more about the issues they’re experiencing so that you can assist them in helping the ENT doctor understand their condition. Do bring along a list of their old medications and health booklet.

What modes of payment do you accept?

We accept the following modes of payment:

  • Cash
  • NETS
  • PayNow/PayLah
  • All major credit cards

If you are insured and require more assistance, do approach our clinic staff.

Can I claim my medical bills through my Medisave account?

Yes. All Singaporeans and PR are able to use Medisave for certain consultations, procedures, and medications at our clinic. Please contact us to find out more about the eligible services.

I have insurance. Can I use that to claim for my medical bills?

Selected procedures are deductible if patients have purchased Integrated Shield plans. Please contact us to find out more.

The 6 Approved Integrated Shield Insurers are:

  • NTUC Income’s IncomeShield and Enhanced IncomeShield
  • American International Assurance International Co’s (AIA) HealthShield Gold
  • Great Eastern Life Assurance Co’s SupremeHealth and SupremeHealth Plus
  • Aviva Ltd’s MyShield
  • Prudential Assurance Co’s PRUShield
  • AXA Shield