There are two types of anomalies that occur during the embryonic period in the auricle: malformations and deformities.
Deformities are characterized by a normal chondrocutaneous auricle, without excess or deficiency of skin or cartilage, but with an abnormal structure caused by external forces such as poor positioning in the womb or during childbirth. The helix and antihelix are often affected, followed by the concha.
Malformations are characterized by a partial absence of skin or cartilage resulting from constriction or underdevelopment during the embryonic period.
In the literature, there is increasing interest in auricle anomalies. Numerous studies describe auricle anomalies, observe their prevalence in newborns, and note their spontaneous or increasingly innovative corrective techniques.
It is difficult to draw conclusions and to project the need to correct these anomalies depending on whether they are minor or affect half the ears of newborn children.