What does hemifacial microsomia indicate in terms of ear development?

Hemifacial microsomia is a condition that is characterized by the underdevelopment of one side of the face, which can also affect the ear on that side. In this condition, it is common for the ear on the affected side to be undersized or malformed. This condition typically does not impact the ear on the opposite side, leading to a noticeable difference between the two. Thus, the indication that only one ear is undersized accurately reflects the nature of hemifacial microsomia, as it predominantly affects just one side of the face, including the corresponding ear.