of development of the middle ear. Microtia is usually isolated, but may occur in conjunction with hemifacial microsomia, Goldenhar Syndrome or Treacher-Collins Syndrome. It is also occasionally associated with kidney abnormalities (rarely life-threatening), and jaw problems, and more rarely, heart defects and vertebral deformities. Notable cases Paul Stanley, vocalist and rhythm guitarist of Kiss, was born with grade III microtia of his right ear. References Further reading Thorne, Charles (2013) " Ear Reconstruction: Microtia". Grabb & Smith's Plastic Surgery, 7th ed. Pages 283-294. External links Diseases of the ear and mastoid process Congenital disorders of ears