Earlobe Repair

Earlobe Repair (Torn Earlobe Repair)

Torn earlobes, which can occur due to wearing earrings over time, can be corrected through a simple surgical procedure with excellent results.

What Causes Torn Earlobes?

• Wearing heavy earrings.
• Trauma or injury to the ear.
• Stretching of ear piercings.
• Accidental pulling or snagging of earrings.

Types of Earlobe Tears:

• Small tears or elongated piercing holes.
• Complete splits of the earlobe.
• Stretched or gauged earlobes.

The Earlobe Repair Procedure:

The repair procedure is typically performed in-office under local anesthesia. The surgeon will remove the damaged or stretched skin and then carefully stitch the edges of the earlobe back together. The goal is to restore the natural shape and contour of the earlobe.

Depending on the extent of the tear, different techniques can be used:

• For small tears or elongated holes: The edges of the tear are freshened and sutured together.
• For complete splits: A more complex reconstruction may be necessary to recreate the natural curve of the earlobe. Techniques may also be used to repair the free edge of the earlobe to avoid a pointed appearance.
• For stretched or gauged earlobes: A more extensive procedure is required to remove excess tissue and reshape the earlobe.

Recovery and Aftercare:

• Stitches are usually removed within 10-14 days.
• Some swelling, bruising, or discomfort is normal after the procedure and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
• It's important to keep the area clean and dry to prevent infection.
• New piercing can usually be done after the earlobe has fully healed (several weeks or months), in a different location to prevent re-tearing.

Non-Surgical Options (For Minor Cases):

In very minor cases of elongated piercing holes, dermal fillers (hyaluronic acid or fat injections) *may* be an option to camouflage the tear. However, surgery is generally the most effective and permanent solution for torn earlobes.

Cost:

(Cost can vary significantly depending on the extent of the repair and the surgeon's fees. It's best to consult with a surgeon for a personalized quote.)