The ideal age for repair of congenital ear defects is around 5-6 years old, when the ear has completely matured. Older patients may undergo the surgery any time. Patients who have been a victim of trauma may be able to reattach an avulsed ear immediately if the ear is in excellent shape and conditions are right. If the ear may not be immediately attached, it is often better to let the injured area heal for 6 months so that a new ear may be reconstructed against healthy living tissue.