Ear shaping

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Ear shaping is the process of altering the shape of the human ear(s) as a body modification practice, often resulting in a non-human appearance. The medical procedure via which ears are reshaped to give a normal appearance is known as otoplasty. Ear shaping is usually performed by body modification artists.

Contents

There are several ways in which human ears can be given a different appearance including cropping, pointing, and the amputation of various parts of the ear. The various methods may be combined to give specific results.[ citation needed ]

Amputation

In this form of ear shaping, the lobe or other portions of the ear are amputated to give the desired look. This may also be undertaken to remove stretched portions that are no longer wanted. Sutures or cauterizing may be required.[ citation needed ]

Cropping

Ear cropping is commonly performed on animals, for both cosmetic and other reasons, but rarely on humans. In humans, cropping usually involves the removal of part of the upper ear with a scalpel. Suturing or cauterizing may be required.

Pointing

Ear pointing or "elfing" by various methods is undertaken to give them an appearance similar to that of elves or Vulcans. A common method is to remove a small wedge-shaped portion at the top of the ear, and then suture the two edges. The development of this procedure is generally credited to Steve Haworth. [1]

Originally the shape was achieved by folding and trimming the client's helix and sutured together to achieve a pointed look. But a new procedure has been developed by Samppa Von Cyborg, which gives the pointed ears a far more natural look. [2]

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Implant (body modification)

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Cropping (animal)

Cropping is the removal of part or all of the external flaps of an animal's ear. The procedure sometimes involves bracing and taping the remainder of the ears to train them to point upright. Almost exclusively performed on dogs, it is an old practice that was once done for perceived health, practical or cosmetic reasons. Veterinary science states there is no medical or physical advantage to the animal from the procedure, leading to concerns of animal cruelty over performing unnecessary surgery on animals. In modern times, cropping is banned in many nations, but is still legal in a limited number of countries. Where permitted, it is seen only in certain breeds of dog, such as the Pit bull, Doberman Pinscher, Schnauzer, Great Dane, Boxer and Cane Corso.

Overview of discretionary invasive procedures on animals

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References

  1. "Ear Pointing - BMEzine Encyclopedia". Archived from the original on 2012-09-22. Retrieved 2011-11-27.
  2. Larratt, Shannon. "Alternate ear pointing methods".