It ranges in severity from a bump of tissue to a partially formed ear. In most cases, only one ear is affected. In that case, it is called Unilateral Microtia. If both ears are affected, it is called Bilateral Microtia. Unilateral Microtia occurs in 1 out of 8,000 births and Bilateral Microtia occurs in 1 out of 25,000 births.
Further research is necessary to determine the exact cause.
The prosthesis is glued to the head. If you choose reconstructive surgery, it is a 3 to 4 step process, usually done two to three months apart. Other operations may be needed to rotate the lobule and possibly to reposition the cartilage framework into it's final position New advances in procedures to treat Microtia are constantly being made. Your child should be treated by a qualified craniofacial medical team at a craniofacial center. This is by no means a comprehensive list of all the craniofacial teams.