Glossary of ear correction terms
Plain-language definitions for the anatomy, procedures, and products you will encounter when researching non-surgical ear correction.
A
Antihelical fold
The curved ridge of cartilage inside the outer ear that gives the ear its shape. When this fold is underdeveloped, the ear tends to protrude or stick out more prominently.
Auricle
The visible, external part of the ear - also called the pinna. It collects sound waves and funnels them toward the ear canal. In cosmetic contexts, 'auricle' often refers to the ear's shape and position.
C
Concha
The bowl-shaped cavity in the center of the ear. An overdeveloped concha can push the entire ear outward, causing it to protrude from the side of the head.
Conchal bowl
Another name for the concha - the hollow, shell-like center of the ear. Its depth and angle influence how far the ear sits from the skull.
D
Dermatologically tested
A product that has been evaluated by skin specialists for safety and compatibility with human skin. Earswrap is dermatologically tested to minimise irritation and allergic reactions.
E
Ear adhesive
A cosmetic adhesive designed specifically for use on or around the ear. Unlike generic glues or tapes, a proper ear adhesive is formulated for skin contact, flexibility, and discreet repositioning of the ear.
Ear corrector
Any product or device used to adjust the position or appearance of the ear without surgery. Correctors include adhesive liquids, silicone stickers, rigid clips, and infant moulding splints.
Ear folding
A minor surgical procedure in which a small implant is inserted under the skin to fold the ear cartilage into a flatter position. Less invasive than full otoplasty but still requires a clinical setting.
Ear molding
A non-surgical technique using soft splints to reshape a newborn's ear cartilage while it is still pliable. Most effective in the first 4 to 6 weeks of life.
Ear pinning
The common term for otoplasty surgery, where a surgeon repositions the ear closer to the head by reshaping cartilage and sometimes removing tissue. It is permanent and requires recovery time.
Ear splint
A soft or rigid device applied to an infant's ear to reshape cartilage during the early weeks of life. Also called an ear mold or molding splint.
EarWell
A clinical infant ear-molding system used by paediatric specialists to correct ear deformities in newborns. It is not a consumer product and must be fitted by a healthcare professional.
Ear Buddies
A brand of soft splints designed for overnight wear in young children. They aim to permanently reshape ear cartilage over months of use, typically starting before 6 months of age.
H
Hypoallergenic
A formulation designed to reduce the likelihood of allergic reactions. Earswrap uses a hypoallergenic adhesive suitable for daily skin contact.
N
Non-surgical ear correction
Any method of adjusting ear position or appearance without surgery. Options include adhesive correctors, silicone stickers, infant splints, and rigid clips.
O
Otostick
A silicone sticker placed behind the ear to pull it closer to the head. It is a single-use adhesive patch that can be visible from certain angles and may lose adhesion with sweat.
Otoplasty
Surgical ear pinning performed by a plastic surgeon. The procedure reshapes cartilage to bring protruding ears closer to the head. It is permanent, costs thousands of euros, and requires weeks of recovery.
P
Pinna
The visible, external ear - the same as the auricle. The word comes from Latin for 'feather' or 'wing,' describing the ear's shape.
Prominent ears
Ears that protrude more than 2 centimetres from the side of the head, the clinical threshold used by surgeons. Also called protruding ears, bat ears, or sticking-out ears. The condition is largely genetic and affects roughly 5 percent of people.
Protruding ears
Another term for prominent ears - ears that stick out noticeably from the head. The two terms are used interchangeably in cosmetic and medical literature.
S
Solo-adhesive
Earswrap's patented technology - a liquid adhesive that bonds the back of the ear to itself, creating a skin-to-skin hold without any sticker, clip, or visible device between the ear and the head.
Spirit gum
A theatrical adhesive used to attach prosthetics, wigs, and costume pieces. It is not formulated for ear repositioning, can leave shiny residue, and often requires solvents for removal.
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