On average, the outer ear is positioned at an angle of about 20 to 35 degrees from the side of the head. However, if the ear angle is greater than 35 degrees, it is considered to “stick out.”
This condition is often genetic and may run in families, though it is seen with relative frequency as a random occurrence as well. Protruding ears should not affect a person’s hearing, though it often is a source of anxiety or discomfort.
Around five percent of the general population is affected.
There are a number of causes:
Cartilage Overdevelopment:
If the pinna, or the upper edge of the ear, has an abnormal amount of cartilage, it is more likely to be prominent in appearance.
Cartilage Underdevelopment:
Alternatively, if the cartilage at the upper ridge of the ear does not develop fully in childhood, it can lead to the ears sticking outward rather than folding in toward the head.
Injury
Injuries may result in prominent ears.