Overview of ear shapes

We cannot say for certain whether there are types of ears that can be considered standard. However, the type of ears referred to as flared ears are considered a minority in the population and the most distinctive compared to other types. 

Protruding ears, commonly referred to as flared ears, are an aesthetic problem that affects many people. The problem consists of the size and excessive protrusion of the ears in a disproportionate manner to the physiognomy of the face. Protruding ears are considered a  hereditary anatomical feature and are more likely to be found among members of the same family. Keep in mind that although the protrusion may be considered by some an aesthetic defect, it does not alter a person’s hearing ability. People with this ear shape often resort to an ear surgery, or otoplasty, to improve the shape, position and proportion of the ear.

Attached ears is the ear type where the earlobe is attached to the skin of the head. The degree of separation of the earlobe from the head is a trait that depends on genetics. Having an ear with an attached lobe does not affect a persona’s hearing ability and is simply an aesthetic concern. To find out which hearing aid best fits this type of ear, visit your nearest Amplifon centre. 

An ear is defined as big or oversized when its auricular axis, which usually has a vertical dimension between 5.5 cm and 6.5 cm, exceeds its standard length. Also known as macrotia ears, their size isn’t proportional to the person’s head. To find out which hearing aid best fits this type of ear, visit to your nearest Amplifon center.

An ear is defined as small when the auricular axis is less than 2 inches in size. Also known as microtia, this congenital deformity of the outer ear occurs when the ear does not fully develop during the first trimester of pregnancy.  To find out which hearing aid best fits this type of ear, visit to your nearest Amplifon center. 

Pointed, also known as elf ears, is a characteristic feature where a person’s earcup is somewhat pointed upwards.  Although this type of ear shape may be considered an aesthetic abnormality, it does not compromise a person’s hearing ability. To find out which is the best hearing aid for you, visit to your nearest Amplifon center. 

Folded ears are a type of ear especially common in newborns. In this type of ear, the pinna of the ear is slightly bent inward. However, there is no need to worry, the ears will straighten out on their own as the person grows. Should this not be the case, an EarFold is a fairly common procedure undergone by people with this type of ear.

Soft or hard ears refer to the type of cartilage that characterizes an auricle that is somewhat fragile.  A soft cartilage is more common in infants as it is not yet fully developed. A hard ear, on the other hand, is often present in wrestlers or boxers, as a result of the constant blows received to the head which tend to thicken the cartilage of the pinna. To find out whether you have soft or hard ears and which is the best hearing aid for, visit your nearest Amplifon center. 

There is no such thing as beautiful or ugly ears. Any judgment on the matter is entirely subjective. The most important thing to consider with regards to your ear type is that you feel good with its shape and size.