What is Earlobe Repair?
Earlobe repair is an in-office procedure that requires minimal downtime and discomfort. People usually seek these procedures as a result of some trauma to the earlobe such as a rip or tear, a worn-out piercing that has stretched, or an unwanted gauged piercing. The procedure consists of numbing with a local anesthetic, making a small incision or trimming the edges, and suturing the lobe. The entire procedure takes about 30 minutes. The sutures will be removed in 7-10 days, but the healing process may take several months. Once the lobe is completely healed, the option of re-piercing can be discussed. The procedure typically leaves a faint, but usually unnoticeable scar where the incision was made.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is an earlobe repair performed?
The procedure is performed in-office under local anesthetic. A simple incision is made to correct the shape or structural integrity and the lobe is then sutured.
How long does an earlobe repair take to perform? What should you expect?
The procedure itself takes about 30 minutes. There are not many restrictions post-procedure, but workouts should be skipped while the sutures are in place for the following week. It is normal for the repaired ear to feel tender or sore, and it is advisable to avoid sleeping on that ear until healed.
What is the earlobe repair recovery?
The sutures will be in place for 7-10 days. During this time, you will want to be mindful of any activities that may put pressure on the ear, such as side sleeping. After the sutures are removed, regular activities can be resumed, but the earlobe will continue to heal for several months.
Can earlobes be re-pierced after they heal?
Typically, yes, but each case is different, and you should consult your surgeon before moving forward with any piercings.
Are there any alternatives to surgical repair?
Yes, depending on your goals, filler injections may be a suitable alternative. While filler will not correct a tear or a gauge, filler can be used to mask the appearance of sagging earlobes that are the result of aging or weight loss. The fillers used are made of hyaluronic acid and are the same fillers used in other areas of the face. To read more about the fillers we offer, please click here.