Surgery on the earlobes has become increasingly popular in recent years, particularly with patients who have gauged their ears at some point. Earlobes can be injured, torn, or stretched due to an injury or deliberate gauging of the earlobes during body modification. Once an earlobe is stretched, it may not return to its normal shape, size, or contours, having a noticeable impact on your appearance. Thankfully, earlobe repair surgery, also known as earlobe reconstruction, is a safe and effective way to restore harmony and balance to your ears.
Common Reasons for Earlobe Injuries
- Trauma: Traumatic events like getting earrings pulled or caught on clothing, jewelry, or accessories can cause tears or stretch the earlobe. Sports-related injuries or accidents can also lead to earlobe injuries.
- Heavy Earrings: Prolonged use of heavy earrings, particularly gauges or large hoops, can stretch the earlobe over time, causing it to elongate or tear.
- Gauge Earrings: While some individuals deliberately stretch their earlobes for fashion purposes, they may later want to revert to a more natural appearance, necessitating earlobe repair.
- Keloids or Hypertrophic Scarring: In some cases, ear piercings may develop keloids or hypertrophic scars, causing aesthetic concerns and discomfort.
The Earlobe Repair Procedure
Earlobe repair surgery is a straightforward outpatient procedure Dr. Gilbert can perform in our office under local anesthesia or IV sedation. At an initial consultation, Dr. Gilbert examines the earlobe and discusses your expectations and goals for the procedure. If you experience surgical anxiety, we may also administer oral or IV sedation before surgery for your comfort.
Dr. Gilbert administers the appropriate anesthesia on the day of surgery, then carefully makes an
incision along the natural creases and contours of the earlobe to minimize visible scarring. This incision allows the removal of any excess tissue and efficient reshaping of the earlobe.
Once the desired shape and size are achieved, the surgeon meticulously sutures the incision to ensure proper healing and minimize scarring. Following the procedure, you are given specific aftercare instructions. It’s essential to keep the incision clean and avoid any unnecessary pressure or tension on the earlobe during the healing process.
What to Expect After Earlobe Repair Surgery
- Minimal Downtime: Most patients can return to regular activities within a day or two after the procedure.
- Swelling and Bruising: Some swelling and bruising may occur initially, but these symptoms typically subside within a week. Avoid sleeping on your ears for the first several days to minimize swelling and aid the healing process.
- Scar Management: Scarring is minimal and discreet. You can further reduce the appearance of scars through proper scar management techniques, such as silicone gel or sheets. Dr. Gilbert can provide recommendations for scar management.
- Re-Piercing Options: Many patients can have their ears re-pierced once the earlobe has fully healed. Dr. Gilbert will provide guidance on when it’s safe to do so. We do not advise re-gauging the ears after earlobe repair surgery.
Earlobe repair surgery is a relatively simple and effective procedure that can restore the natural beauty and symmetry of your ears. Whether your earlobe injury is due to trauma, stretching, or keloid scarring, Dr. Gilbert can help you regain your confidence and restore a natural, healthy appearance to your ears.
If you’re considering earlobe repair surgery, a consultation with Dr. Gilbert is essential to discuss our options and possible outcomes. Call the Inland Institute at Inland Institute - Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Office Phone Number 909-982-8888 to schedule your appointment to learn more about earlobe repair surgery.