Earlobe Repair and Refinement

Women frequently call us regarding a torn or overly stretched earlobe most commonly from trauma or wearing heavy earrings. Catching an earring on a sweater or having a baby grab a hoop earring can easily tear the lobe. Heavy earrings, over time, can stretch the lobe until the hole is very large and very little tissue bridges the bottom. Eventually, the hole will tear through. When that happens, we get the call.

Earlobes are relatively easy to repair. The surgery is done under local anesthesia in our accredited operating room. After the earlobe is numbed, a circular incision is made around the hole to remove the skin from the inside of the hole. Sutures are used to bring the raw edges of tissue together and then the skin is closed. Approximately six weeks after the procedure, the ears can be pierced if the patient desires. We will do it in our office at no additional charge.

The recovery from this procedure is of no consequence for most patients. The discomfort is described frequently as being no more severe than having you ears pierced.

There will be a scar in the area of the repair. However, most patients find it very acceptable and much less obtrusive than the damaged earlobe.

Earlobes can also be refined. Large earlobes can be made smaller. “Pixie” earlobes that are attached directly to the face and not free hanging can be released and reshaped. The procedures vary by problem but are very well tolerated and produce very good results.

Pain medication other than Tylenol is rarely needed for any of these procedures. Time off from work is rarely if ever needed especially if the surgery is done on a Friday and return to work is on Monday.

Call us for more information if earlobe repair or refinement interests you. (916)564-8888