Health information to help you understand symptoms. It isn't a diagnosis.About OwieClear
Check symptoms

Ear shape differences and ear tags

Also called: Ear tags, preauricular tags, prominent ears, ear shape differences

Small skin bumps in front of the ear, or ears that stick out or are shaped differently, present at birth. Usually harmless; a hearing test is a good idea.

CheckNewborn hearing test
Ear moldingWorks best in the first weeks
SurgeryOptional, later

Overview

Ear tags are sometimes linked to kidney or hearing differences, so doctors may check.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Ear tag or ear shape difference

Less common

  • Small pit near the ear

Look up a symptom: Pulling or tugging at an ear

When to get medical care

Call 911This isn't an emergency by itself. Call 911 for trouble breathing, chest pain, or fainting.
Get care todayRedness or drainage from a pit near the ear.
See a doctor soonHearing concerns.

Causes

Born with it.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.
  • It can run in families. Tell your doctor if a parent, brother, or sister has it.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Family history

Possible complications

Diagnosis

Exam at birth.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • Hearing test:

Treatment

Options.

Self-care

  • Ask about ear molding early
  • Ask about ear molding within the first few weeks
  • Keep newborn hearing test appointments

Removal of tags or ear surgery later.

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

  • None needed

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
  • They may send you to an ENT doctor (ear, nose, and throat doctor).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

  • Children: Surgery for prominent ears is often done after age 5.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
  • Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
  • Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
  • Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Harmless.

Most need no treatment.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

  • Does my baby need a kidney ultrasound?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Ear shape differences and ear tags

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.