Ear malformations

Ear malformations may present singly or as a component of a syndrome.

The most common are:

• positional malformation of the external ear (protruding ear)
• constricted growth of parts of the external ear (cryptotia and cup ear)
• partial absence of external ear (microtia)
• complete absence of external ear (anotia)

The most common of these malformations is protruding ear, where the external ear is correctly situated. Cup ear is a malformation where the top of the external ear is constricted into a cup shape. In microtia, the upper part of the external ear is absent or consists only of tiny bumps of cartilage; the lower part and earlobe may be normal. Microtia and anotia often present as part of a broader syndrome (e.g. hemifacial microsomia). These syndromes involve malformations in face and jaw growth, and bite problems.

We treat ear malformations as a team effort between specialist disciplines. The shape of a malformed ear can be surgically corrected. We can build a replacement external ear using the ear’s own tissue. A prosthetic replacement is also possible. Hearing can be improved through surgery for hearing loss or with various hearing aids.

Surgical procedures are performed at the New Children’s Hospital for children under 16 and at Park Hospital for others.