Do our ears continue to grow as we age?

Do our ears continue to grow as we age

When we’re younger, we grow at an exponential rate. For example, by the time most children are two-years old, their heads have grown to a point that’s 90% of their adult size. That’s a lot of growing, but around the time we reach the age of 20, we stop. The growth plates between our bones close, and for the most part, our skeletons are fully formed.

But, you may have heard or noticed that your appendages with soft tissue and cartilage—like your ears and nose—seem to never stop growing. Why? Is there any truth to this suggestion, or is the growth you’re seeing just an optical illusion? In order to get to the bottom of this, one must understand the operative qualities of cartilage and its basic yet important role in the human anatomy.

Cartilage is a feature in the human body that many people have heard about but very few understand. For the most part, cartilage is a very versatile tissue that can be found all over the body: between the bones and vertebrae, at the ends of ribs, and even in the bronchial tubes. The ears and nose, however, are almost totally made up of cartilage.

Our ears come in many shapes and sizes, but their functions are the same despite this difference. The pinna—which is the outer ear—is the part that is made up of cartilage, and no matter what your ear looks like, it gathers sounds from your environment and circulates them to your ear canal. This makes hearing easier and the sounds clearer. But do our ears grow as time moves on?

The cartilage in our ears does not grow but as time passes, it does change. Over the course of our life, we experience weight changes, injuries, and other body-altering events that weaken connective tissues and cartilage. These events lead to changes that come in the form of sagging skin and softer cartilage, leading to the appearance of larger ears and noses in older men and women.

There are other cases where the rest of your face changes in a way that accentuates areas like your ears or nose. For example, a loosened jawline might draw attention to your earlobes in a way that makes them look longer than normal. 

These changes—much like any other changes associated with the word sagging—are unenviable yet inevitable. There are very few ways to prevent these changes, but if you do not like the way your ears look, consult your plastic surgeon to determine an empowering yet healthy option forward.

In the end, the myth that our ears grow as we age is exactly that: a myth; and while change is not growth, you can still say it is. As we get older, we get wiser. Take the change as a sign of growth in knowledge and in wisdom and as a physical representation of the lessons you have learned all along the way. 

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Additional Services from Big Sky Audiology

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Hearing Tests

Comprehensive hearing assessments to identify and address your unique needs.

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Hearing Aids

Personalized fittings and adjustments for optimal hearing aid performance.

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Hearing Aid Repair

Expert hearing aid repair services to restore clarity and enhance device longevity.

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Hearing Implants

Advanced hearing implant solutions to improve sound clarity and hearing experience.

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Ear Cleaning

Gentle and thorough ear cleaning services to remove buildup and improve hearing.

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Ongoing Care

Continuous support and follow-up to ensure your long-term hearing health.

Expert and friendly care! Clear explanation of test and best options.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful feedback! We're happy to hear that our staff was able to assist you! Your recommendation means a lot to us. We look forward to serving you in the future!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your 5 star review, Darlene! We are thrilled to hear that you had a great experience with us. We look forward to seeing you again soon!
We are always greeted and get taken care of.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words Belinda! We appreciate you and look forward to helping you!
I purchased new hearing aids and they work great. I was tested, fitted and have been in for an adjustment. All was super. Brandy and the rest of the people are great.
Response from the owner:Robert, we are so happy your new hearing aids are working great! Our patients happiness is our #1 priority! We look forward to serving you!
Great service and friendly staff! Highly recommend.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! It is always great to see you both! We look forward to helping you in the future!
This John Lyons
This a great place to get hearing aids! All the people are very nice!
Response from the owner:Thank you for the review John! We are thrilled to hear you had a great experience with us! Our team is dedicated to making sure every visit is a positive one, and we are happy to know you feel this way! We are thankful you are a part of our Big Sky Family and we look forward to seeing you!
Very friendly staff. Everyone was also very knowledgeable and did their best to get my new hearing aids fast. They called my insurance so I knew for sure what was covered. I highly recommend them!
Response from the owner:Patricia ,we are so happy that you had a great experience with us! We love hearing this and can't wait to work with you moving forward!
Very professional and pleasant to work with!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your feedback Leonard! We are so happy you had a pleasant experience at our office! Our patients are our #1 priority and we look forward to seeing you again!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your awesome review, Phil! It is always great to see you! We look forward to seeing you in the future!
…can’t say enough good things about Big Sky Audiology!…Dr Hayden & her team have done an amazing job assisting my husband thru all the adjustments that come with a hearing loss. Their Expertise…& kindness… along with a good dose of humor has made all the difference! If you or your loved one is struggling to hear…don’t hesitate to check these folks out…
Response from the owner:Vicki, thank you so much for your kind words! It is always a fun time when you guys come in and visit us! We are so grateful to be on this journey with Eric, changing his life with better hearing! We look forward seeing you soon!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your 5 star review Chelsea! We look forward to seeing you again!
Very pleasant & efficient staff.
Response from the owner:Thank you Vicki! We appreciate you and look forward to seeing you again soon!
Response from the owner:Jody, thank you for your 5-star rating! We appreciate you and your support! We look forward to serving you again soon!
This is Nancy Wester that recently went here to get a hearing test. Was a great experience and Brandy was awesome. The kindness and patience was appreciated. I have some time to make my mind up and have questions. Thanks again Nancy Wester
Response from the owner:thank you for your kind words, Nancy. We are excited to hear that you had a great experience with us. We think Brandy is pretty awesome too! Your kind words about our team and service are appreciated! We look forward to seeing you again soon!
Friendly staff and doctors. Great help in addressing any issues i had with my hearing aids.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your great review Scott! We're happy to hear that our team has provided you with excellent service and support. Your kind words motivate us to keep delivering the best care for our patients. We look forward to continuing to serve you!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your 5 star review Lynette! We always look forward to seeing you!
Tracey Hayden is thorough, smart and kind, in providing care.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words, Barry! We're thrilled to hear you had a pleasant visit and found Dr. Hayden's advice helpful. Your satisfaction is our priority, and we look forward to serving you again!
Had an amazing experience. The staff was so professional and caring. Super knowledgeable of their products. Great over all experience.
Response from the owner:Thank you Allen for your review! We appreciate you and we look forward to seeing you again.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your 5 star review Lynne! We look forward to seeing you again!
As a patient of Big Sky Audiology for over two years, I can't speak highly enough of their exceptional service. Dr. Tracy Hayden's expert hearing evaluations are thorough and informative, ensuring that I am getting the best care possible. The staff are always warm and welcoming, creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. Additionally, they use the most up-to-date technology, which gives me confidence in their care. I highly recommend Big Sky Audiology for anyone seeking top-notch, compassionate hearing care.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words, Brian! We are thrilled to hear that you had a positive experience at Big Sky Audiology. We strive to provide exceptional professionalism and care to all of our patients. Tina and Dr. Tracy Hayden are dedicated to ensuring that each patient feels valued and receives personalized care. We appreciate your recommendation and look forward to serving you and others in the future.
Brandy was very efficient and knowledgeable. The adjustments and everything she did to my hearing aides made a 100% improvement on my hearing now. This has changed my life considerably for the better. I'm very grateful I found Brandy as my audiologist after having disappointing outcomes with three other audiologists. Her knowledge and understanding of my condition was phenomenal. Thank you very much Brandy. Sincerely, Jim Wise
Response from the owner:Jim, thank you so much for the kind words! Our provider Brandy is a rock star and we are delighted that she was able to improve your hearing aids! Your happiness is our #1 goal! We look forward to seeing you in the future!
The folks at Big Sky Audiology are the best. Always helpful and knowledgeable. They follow through with everything they say they're going to do. Top notch!!!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your fantastic review, Matthew! We're thrilled to hear that our team at Big Sky Audiology has provided you with excellent service and support. Your kind words motivate us to keep delivering the best for our patients. We look forward to continuing to serve you!
This is Brian Roat--(Mr. Sharon)--I am the client of Big Sky Audiology. A necessary visit to another provider resulted in my hearing aids being seriously out of adjustment. Tracy put everything back correctly--thank you! I've known Tracy since she was with Rehder--she impressed me then and continues to do so--I don't believe there is anyone better with hearing issues. The staff is friendly and very helpful as well.
Response from the owner:Thank you, Brian & Sharon, for your positive review! We are glad to hear that Tracy was able to fix the issues with your hearing aids and that you have had a great experience with her. It's also wonderful to know that the staff at Big Sky Audiology is friendly and helpful. We appreciate your continued trust in Tracy and our team for your hearing needs.
Feeling unsteady, dizzy and lightheaded was not fun. Kelsi Prosser Au.D. has really helped lessen these symptoms for me with vestibular treatments. She and the Staff are helpful and friendly.
Thank you
Response from the owner:Thank you for the review, Deb! We are delighted that Dr. Prosser was able to help you with your symptoms of unsteadiness and dizziness. Helping amazing patients like you is our favorite thing to do!
Thank you Tina fo making it r work.
Response from the owner:Thank you Erik for the review! We are happy to hear that Tina was able to help you! We look forward to seeing you again!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful 5-star rating! We're thrilled to know you had a great experience. Your support means a lot to us, and we look forward to serving you again soon.
Dr. Hayden and staff are awesome to work with. They have been taking care of all of my hearing loss needs for over 6 years.
I have used other hearing aid facilities in Billings but have not measured up Big Sky Audiology. They are prompt, courteous and professional.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words, David! We appreciate your business and look forward to taking care of you for years to come!
Pleasant visit and good advice on choice of hearing aids.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words, Janice! We're thrilled to hear you had a pleasant visit and found our advice helpful. Your satisfaction is our priority, and we look forward to serving you again!
Great staff and expertise. Had a minor problem with my hearing aid and was fixed in no time. Highly recommend this business for hearing aids
Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful feedback, Cindy! We're delighted to hear that our staff was able to assist you promptly with your hearing aid issue. Your recommendation means a lot to us. We look forward to serving you again in the future.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your 5-star rating! We appreciate your support! We look forward to seeing you again!
My visit was due to Vertigo.I was able to get an appointment within two days after the doctor's referral. The appointment was timely, cordial, thorough and took care of the Vertigo. I would recommend Big Sky Audiology and will go back as needed.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your positive feedback, Betty! We're glad to hear that you were able to get an appointment quickly and that our team provided you with the care you needed for your Vertigo. Your recommendation means a lot to us, and we look forward to assisting you again in the future.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your perfect rating! We're thrilled to hear that you had a great experience with us. We look forward to seeing you again soon!
Everyone treats you so nice, am greeted by name when I arrive
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words, Karen! We're thrilled to hear that you feel welcomed and appreciated. We look forward to your next visit!
It was excellent. Treated kindly. Everything explained clearly. Professional
Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful review, Ken! We're thrilled to hear that you had an excellent experience with us. Your kind words about our team and service are greatly appreciated!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your excellent rating, Dena! Your satisfaction means a lot to us!
Dr Prosser was great. Enjoyed her expertise as well as some visiting.. I’m much better but still a little dizzy so may be back. Referring my best friend who has tinnitus, Sally Martin. Thanks
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words, Dorothy! We're delighted to hear that you enjoyed your experience with Dr. Prosser. We appreciate your referral to Sally and look forward to assisting both of you further. Wishing you a smooth recovery!
Response from the owner:Thank you for the 5-star rating, Kenneth! We're glad to know you had a great experience with us. Your support means a lot to our team.
Top notch. Very professional and caring. They truly want to help you get the best quality and hearing device that fits your lifestyle and hearing demands.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your fantastic feedback, Dana! We're so glad to know that you found our team professional and attentive to your needs. Delivering the best quality service and products is our mission, and your satisfaction means the world to us. We look forward to assisting you again in the future!
Good people. Great place:)
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words, Alex! We're glad to hear you had a great experience with us. Your support means a lot!
First I want to say your new facility is amazing. I have had my hearing aids for about four and a half years. I'm not always the best at keeping them super clean. I work alone most of the time outside. I use ear plugs to save what I have of my hearing so I don't wear then during the day. Brandi did my evaluation of my hearing. I have also not been good about annual check ups. She did the hearing test and went through and showed me my changes from my last appointment in 2023. Thank goodness things were very similar. She explained to clean the tiny port holes at the top of my hearing aids. Wow, what a difference after she cleaned them. From the little gal at the front desk to anyone that assists me in my appointment everyone is knowledgeable, friendly, helpful and making sure we are satisfied with our hearing aids.
Thank you from my wife, ha ha ha she only has to repeat herself now because I'm used to saying "what"
Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful review, Dan! We're thrilled to hear that you had a positive experience at our new facility and that Brandy was able to assist you effectively. It's great to know that your hearing aids are working well for you now. We appreciate your kind words about our team, and we look forward to continuing to support you and your hearing needs!
Big Sky Audiology has treated both my elderly parents. The staff is very knowledgeable and personable. I would highly recommend Big Sky Audiology!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words, Daq! We're delighted to hear that your parents received great care from our knowledgeable staff. Your recommendation means a lot to us! We look forward to helping them in the future!
By far the best Audiologists and Staff in Billings. I had damage to my hearing and the care that was taken, as well as the explanation of the situation was not only caring and professional but positive & encouraging. They are absolutely AMAZING!! (And the hearing aids were well worth it).
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words, Steve! We are thrilled to hear that you had such a positive experience with our team. Your satisfaction is our top priority, and we’re glad we could assist you in your hearing journey. It's great to know that the hearing aids have met your expectations!
Brandi always is very patient takes her time to make sure I'm getting all I can out of my hearing aids
Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful feedback, Larry! We're glad to hear that Brandy's patience and dedication have made such a positive impact on your experience. Your satisfaction is our top priority, and we appreciate your kind words!
Great, friendly service. I love my hearing aids.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words, Paul! We're thrilled to hear that you're enjoying your hearing aids and that you had a great experience with our team. Your satisfaction is our priority!
Response from the owner:Thank you for the 5-star rating, Tom! We appreciate your support and are glad to know you had a positive experience with us.
Office full of wonderful and helpful people. They make your visit smooth and pleasant. Very knowledgeable and willing to help with any questions you may have.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words, John! We're thrilled to hear that you had a pleasant experience with our team. Your satisfaction is our priority, and we appreciate your feedback!
Great customer service.
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for the review, Skip! We will keep providing quality service for you and all of our patients.
Excellent service and they genuinely care about they patients.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words, Gabe! We're delighted to hear that you had a positive experience with our service. Your feedback motivates us to continue providing the best care for our patients. We appreciate you!
A pleasant appointment with Brande, who was very knowledgeable and professional with her advice and assistance to decide upon new hearing aids.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful review, Raymond! We're delighted to hear that Brandy provided you with knowledgeable and professional advice. We look forward to serving you again in the future!
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