Accessory Auricle Removal
Accessory auricles, also known as preauricular skin tags, ear tags or accessory tragi, are common benign congenital differences. They are usually noticed at birth as small skin tags, often in front of the ear or along the cheek line. Some are purely soft tissue, while others contain a small central core of cartilage.
These tags are not dangerous, but many parents choose to have them removed for cosmetic reasons, to avoid later teasing, or to prevent the child from becoming self-conscious as they grow older.
There is often an early window in infancy — usually up to around 3 months of age — when accessory auricles can be removed safely and simply under local anaesthetic. If this window is missed, the child may need to wait until they are older and have the procedure under general anaesthetic. Early referral gives parents the widest range of options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are accessory auricles?
Accessory auricles, also known as preauricular skin tags, ear tags or accessory tragi, are common benign congenital differences usually noticed at birth as small tags of skin, often in front of the ear or along the cheek line. Some are purely soft tissue, while others contain a small central core of cartilage.
Are accessory auricles dangerous?
No. Accessory auricles are benign, and there is usually no medical urgency to remove them. However, many parents choose to have them removed for cosmetic reasons, to avoid later teasing, or to prevent the child from becoming self-conscious as they grow older.
When is the best time to remove accessory auricles?
The best time to consider removal under local anaesthetic is usually from the newborn period up to approximately 3 months of age. During this early stage, babies can often be fed, swaddled and settled comfortably enough for a short procedure to be carried out safely. In selected cases, removal may still be possible slightly beyond this, particularly if the tag is small, narrow-based and the baby is calm — but this becomes much less predictable from around 4 to 6 months, when babies are more alert, stronger and more mobile.
Can accessory auricles be removed under local anaesthetic?
Yes, within this early window. Removal under local anaesthetic is most predictable before 3 months of age. The procedure involves carefully removing the tag, along with the base and any cartilage, to reduce the risk of leaving a residual lump.
What happens if the early window for local anaesthetic is missed?
If the early local anaesthetic window has passed, or if the accessory auricle is broad-based, multiple, contains a significant cartilage core, or the child cannot safely remain still, removal is usually deferred until it can be performed under general anaesthetic. For a purely elective cosmetic procedure, this is commonly considered from around age 1, although exact timing depends on the child, the anaesthetic team, the hospital setting and family preference.
What does general anaesthetic involve for this procedure?
General anaesthesia is very commonly used in paediatric surgical practice, but it still involves fasting, admission to hospital, recovery time and specialist anaesthetic care. Where appropriate, early removal under local anaesthetic can simplify the treatment journey and avoid the need for a later general anaesthetic.
Are there any risks associated with accessory auricle removal?
These procedures are generally low risk. As with any surgical procedure, potential risks include:
- Poor wound healing
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Scarring
- A residual lump, if the full base and any cartilage are not removed
If performed under general anaesthetic, there is also a small risk of an anaesthetic reaction. During your consultation, Mr Juling Ong will explain all potential risks and discuss your treatment options in full.
When should my child be assessed for accessory auricle removal?
Accessory auricles should ideally be assessed within the first few weeks of life if removal is being considered — the earlier the referral, the better. Clear information at the newborn check, postnatal review or GP appointment can make a significant difference, allowing parents to consider a simple local anaesthetic procedure during the early months rather than discovering later that this opportunity has passed.
During your consultation, Mr Juling Ong will explain all potential risks and discuss your treatment options in full. Please call us on 020 7927 6528 or email us at info@julingong.com to arrange an appointment.
