Earlobes are unique little flaps of tissue, hanging down from our ears and they come in different shapes and sizes. Although they are some of the smaller features of the body, they are often used as a display to make big fashion statements or personal expression through the use of earring or gauges. However, prolonged use of heavy earrings or large gauges can stretch out the earlobe piercing and cause concerns with appearance of the whole earlobe. Fortunately, Earlobe Repair Surgery is a quick and easy procedure that will restore the earlobe to a more natural appearance.
When Should I consider Earlobe Repair?
There are two main reasons to seek Earlobe Repair, and the main and most important reason has to do with the health of the earlobe. Wearing heavy earrings over a long period of time eventually results in the stretching of the pierced hole and may leave minimal tissue between the piercing and the border of the ear lobe. This increases the in the risk of tearing the ear lobe and leaving an unsightly scar. It is best to repair the ear lobe and reduce the risk.
The term “gauging” refers to the piercing and incremental stretching of the earlobe with decorative discs. After a certain threshold of gauge is reached, the earlobe is no longer able to assume its original shape and the earlobe is left with a large, circle-shaped hole. Not only can it become an undesirable look, but the earlobes have a higher risk of ripping due to the extremely stretched and weakened skin. In cases like this, an Surgical Earlobe Repair is the best option to avoid any further damage or complications.
Earlobe Repair Non-Surgical vs Surgical Options
For individuals with only mild stretching of the piercing, surgery can be avoided with the injection of hyaluronic acid filler (Juvederm) which plumps up the surrounding ear lobe. This works especially well in mild cases associated with advancing age and thinning of the soft tissues of the face. The fillers effects may last up to 18-24 months. However, for more severe cases surgical ear lobe repair is the best option.
Prolonged use of heavy earrings or wearing large gauges can irreversibly stretch and damage earlobes. In these cases Surgical Earlobe Repair is the best way to restore the earlobes to a more natural state. The complexity of the repair will ultimately depend on the extent of stretching and deformity. The procedure is performed in the in-office, under local anesthesia, and usually completed in under an hour. Earlobe Repair Surgery itself requires no downtime and sutures are typically removed in about 1 week. Individuals who undergo surgical repair may experience minimal discomfort and bruising. Earlobes may be re-pierced about 8-12 weeks post-procedure.
Dr. David Shamouelian is a highly skilled and talented Facial Plastic Surgeon who performs Earlobe Repair and other surgical and non-surgical procedures. To schedule a complimentary consultation, contact Allure Aesthetic Surgery at (888) 265-2335.
(888) 265-2335
201 South Lasky Dr.
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
