Lop ear is an inherited trait that results in an ear that sticks out. The condition can effect one or both sides. The abnormal appearance is created by the lack of a fold along the outer edge of the ear (antihelical fold), and/or overdevelopment of the central bowl shaped portion that houses the opening of the ear canal (conchal bowl).
Surgical correction can be performed through an incision made on the back of the ear. Permanent sutures, passed through the deformed cartilage, are used to recreate the fold and to position the ear more closely to the head.
The procedure can be done as an outpatient under a general anesthetic, twilight anesthetic, or local anesthetic, depending on the age of the patient.
Lop ear usually becomes a problem when children enter grade school and are teased because of their appearance. In situations like this, the correction can be performed as early as 5 years of age.