Microtia can be defined as a lack of development of the ear (auricle). This is a congenital deformity where the ear is often underdeveloped. Complete absence of the ear is referred to as anotia. It occurs in about 1-8,000 births. The right is more commonly affected than the left. Increased incidence in babies born from mothers taking Accutane. Hearing testing must be done and CT scans at 5 years of age to evaluate the middle ear. Reconstruction usually occurs at the age of 6 and up to allow for the use of rib cartilage for molding a new auricle.
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