gogogadget

My son Cody is 8 years old and he has very prominent ears. I was going to get him otoplasty surgery when he was 6 but I just crossed my fingers and hoped he'd grow out of it but that doesn't look it will happen. Does anyone know if insurance will still cover it? I know they cover it for kids when they're age 6 and under for psych reasons (because Cody gets poked fun at) but I don't think they cover it later on. Has anyone had a child that had ear pinning surgery covered by insurance after the age of 6? Any input would be greatly appreciated!

la_angel

My brother had it done when he was a toddler. I hear it's best to get it done as early as possible for kids. And yes you're right insurance only covers it up to a certain age but I don't know exactly what that age is I'm sure its different depeneding on the company.

desperatehousewife

The sooner the better, ask your doctor but I think age 5 to 6 is the best

versace

Another reason to do it younger is if it truly is severe, you don't want your child to suffer the ridicule from his fellow students. I remember being called Dumbo in grade school and I've never had the procedure, so if you can prevent your kid from that kind of torment, by all means do it.

mrsdoolittle

I had my daughters done but I dont recall the exact age I believe it was 5. Insurance did pay for it at the time but now it seems like insurance won't pay for anything so who knows.

poundpuppy

I had my son Toby's ears pinned when he was 7. I thought they looked fine but it was at the advice of his doctor and out of all people, his GRANDMA!

desperatehousewife

Late is better than never. I chatted with my pediatrician friend today and asked her the best age. She said they usually recommend waiting until a child is 5 or 6 years old and ready to go to school before doing ear pinning surgery. By this time the child better understands why it's being done and is more cooperative. She said that's the age that the appearance of ears becomes more of an issue so that's why your child is more likely to not rebel about it. Now if you don't get it at the age of 5 or 6 nothing to fret about she said you can do otoplasty at any age up until 50!

funky

in my opinion it is best toddler age.don't waste time .

gatie946

The earlier the better.

DEV

I think 5 to 6 is the best age for the best results have the correction done as soon as your child's ears reach full size.