What is microtia? Microtia is a congenital abnormality in which the external part of a child's ear is underdeveloped and usually malformed. The defect can affect one (unilateral) or both (bilateral) ears. In about 90 percent of cases, it occurs unilaterally.

Does microtia affect hearing?

Hearing loss.

Beyond the apparent visual deformity of the ear, children with microtia often experience some hearing loss due to the closure or absence of the external ear canal. This hearing loss can affect how the child's speech will develop.

Is microtia a birth defect?

Anotia and microtia are birth defects of a baby's ear. Anotia happens when the external ear (the part of the ear that can be seen) is missing completely. Microtia happens when the external ear is small and not formed properly. Anotia/microtia usually happens during the first few weeks of pregnancy.