Skip to Main Content

Hemifacial microsomia

hemifacial-microsomia-2x

Overview

Hemifacial microsomia is a condition in which the structures on one side of the face are smaller or underdeveloped relative to the other side. The severity of hemifacial microsomia varies widely from person to person, but the ear and lower jaw are always affected.

When both sides of the face are affected to different degrees, the condition is called bilateral hemifacial microsomia.

The exact cause of hemifacial microsomia is unknown. The condition can occur by itself or as part of a syndrome such as Goldenhar's syndrome — also known as oculoauriculovertebral dysplasia — in which the spine and eyes are affected as well as the face.

Signs & symptoms

The severity of hemifacial microsomia varies widely, but the ear and jaw are always affected. Some of the signs of the condition may include:

  • Asymmetric jaw
  • Deformed or absent ear
  • Fuller cheek tissue on one side of the face
  • Impaired hearing
  • Off-center chin
  • Small or absent ear canal

Diagnosis

Hemifacial microsomia is diagnosed by physical examination at birth. A genetic evaluation helps determine if the hemifacial microsomia is isolated or is part of another syndrome or condition.

Treatment

The goal of treatment is to balance the appearance of the two sides of the face as much as possible. Depending on the particular characteristics of each child's condition, we may recommend surgery, orthodontics or both.

If needed, ear reconstruction begins at about 6 to 7 years of age and involves three to four surgical procedures. Jaw reconstruction includes lengthening the lower jaw, sometimes using bone grafting or a distraction device. To fill out the cheek or other areas of the face, some children may benefit from soft tissue augmentation, which is done when the child has mostly finished growing.

In addition, routine hearing tests are important to detect any hearing loss that may require intervention.

A child with hemifacial microsomia may encounter social and emotional challenges unique to this condition. Support organizations and resources are available for children and their families.

UCSF Benioff Children's Hospitals medical specialists have reviewed this information. It is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of your child's doctor or other health care provider. We encourage you to discuss any questions or concerns you may have with your child's provider.

Where to get care (1)

craniofacial-center-320x320-2x 2

Craniofacial Center

Craniofacial Center

San Francisco / Oakland

Support services

Child Life

Certified child life specialists ease the stress and anxiety of childhood illness through therapeutic play, schooling and family-focused support.

Family Amenities

Family-friendly amenities help you relax and take care of yourself while staying close to your child. We offer lounges, kitchens, showers, breastfeeding rooms and more.

Family Resource Center

We help families cope with the challenges of childhood illness and hospitalization in a relaxing environment where parents can get a much-needed break.

glogau-teddy-bear-rescue-fund-2x

Glogau Teddy Bear Rescue Fund

Families that need additional assistance during their child's hospital stay have access to toys, hotel vouchers and other amenities. Find out more.

interpreters-2x

Interpreter Services & Communication Assistance

Interpreter services in many languages and TDDs are available for families that need help communicating with care teams. Here's how to access them.

social-services-2x

Social Services

Social workers ease the effect of illness, injury and hospitalization on your family with counseling and assistance to help you navigate the challenges.

Awards & recognition

  • Ranked among the nation's best in 10 specialties

Feeling at home

From bedside bingo to therapy dogs, we're here to help kids smile and feel more like themselves.

Visit Child Life services

Share