A Stahl’s deformity occurs when the upper ear has an extra fold of cartilage, resulting in a pointed appearance. Children and parents are often unaware of this deformity until they get closer to school age.
When Stahl's ear deformity is diagnosed in the first days of life, it may be improved non-surgically by ear molding techniques. In order for molding to be successful, it must be implemented in the first 2 weeks of life. When molding therapy is not an option, surgical correction may be required. Stahl's abnormalities are often surgically treated when the child is 4-5 years-of-age. Correction often involves removal of cartilage to eliminate the pointed portion of the ear and suturing techniques to help the ear hold its new shape. Surgery is typically done as a day surgery procedure.