Earlobe
repair/ Reduction
Candidates for Earlobe Repair/reduction
Earlobe repair is a simple in-office procedure designed to correct torn, stretched, or split earlobes caused by trauma, normal aging, heavy earrings, or gauging. Ideal candidates are individuals who are unhappy with the appearance of one or both earlobes due to injury or gradual stretching and wish to restore a natural contour. Earlobe repair can typically be performed under local anesthesia with minimal downtime. Once healed, the ear can usually be re-pierced if desired. It is important to keep in mind that continuing to wear heavy earrings after ear lobe repair can cause the stretching to recur.
The goal of earlobe repair is to restore a natural, symmetrical shape to torn or stretched earlobes. Whether caused by trauma, heavy earrings, or gauging, the procedure aims to close the defect, smooth irregular edges, and improve overall appearance—allowing patients to wear earrings again if desired.
Goals for Earlobe repair/reduction
The Earlobe Repair/Reduction Procedure
Torn/Stretched earlobe repair
Dr. Ramachandra repairs torn or stretched earlobes during a brief procedure in the office under local anesthesia. To repair a tear or overstretched hole, part of the skin around the tear or hole is cut away. Then, the "freshened" edges of the tear or hole are stitched together with both dissolving sutures (in the inner tissue) and regular sutures (on the surface skin).
Earlobe repair does not require prescription pain medication, and over-the-counter pain relievers are usually sufficient. Afterwards, the incision should be cleaned gently with a q-tip 2 times a day for a week. Skin sutures are removed 1 week after the procedure. If desired, Dr. Ramachandra will re-pierce the ear 4 to 6 weeks after repair. In order to prevent stretching or tearing after repair, heavy earrings will need to be avoided.
Earlobe Reduction
Patients may be interested in decreasing the overall size of the earlobe. Ear lobe reduction requires cutting out the redundant ear lobe tissue and re-suturing the lobe to maintain a natural appearance. Consultation before this type of appointment is usually required as the technique will vary depending upon a patient's goals, skin thickness and prior procedures.
Recovery from Earlobe Repair/Reduction
Recovery after earlobe repair is typically quick and straightforward. Most patients return to normal activities the same day. Mild swelling, redness, or tenderness may occur but usually resolves within a few days. Sutures are removed in about one week, and you’ll be given instructions on how to keep the area clean and promote healing. Re-piercing can usually be done after 6–8 weeks, once the tissue has fully healed.
Risks of Earlobe Repair/Reduction
Anytime skin is cut in a surgical procedure, there are certain risks, which include:
Bleeding
Swelling
Infection
Pain
Scarring
Depression or “notch” in skin
Tearing in the future