Unlike the rest of the ear, earlobes have soft tissue and lack cartilage. These make them more vulnerable to tears. Heavy earrings, accidental tears, or years of stretching (through ear gauging) can permanently damage your earlobes .
Fortunately, Dr. Diehl offers a simple yet effective earlobe repair surgery to solve this problem.
What is earlobe repair surgery?
Earlobe repair surgery (also called lobuloplasty) is a minor procedure to fix torn, stretched, or damaged earlobes. Whether it’s from an accidental pull or years of gauging, this surgery can restore your earlobes to their natural shape and appearance.
Why do you need to repair your earlobes?
Earlobe damage is common among women and men. Earrings can be a beautiful addition to our facial appearance and wardrobe. But if you regularly wear those ‘heavy duty’ earrings, they can have a detrimental impact on your ear! Earlobe damage can also result from babies pulling on earrings, earrings getting caught on sweaters, repeated microtrauma from wearing earrings while sleeping, and other similar incidents that can cause stretching or complete tearing of the earlobe.
The gradual lengthening and stretching of an earring hole can happen with the passage of time or if you gauge your earlobes. Earlobe gauging is the stretching of an ear piercing to create larger-than-normal ear piercings. Earlobe repair is needed to address stretched or torn earring holes.
Earlobe Repair vs Rejuvenation vs Reduction
When it comes to earlobe concerns, you have options. Here’s a quick comparison:
Which Option Is Right for You?
Your earlobes might seem small, but they can have a big impact on how you feel about yourself. If you have stretched, gauged, or torn earlobes, earlobe repair (lobuloplasty) can help restore their natural look and function.
For those dealing with sagging, thinning, or wrinkles due to aging, earlobe rejuvenation can add volume and smoothness to your ear. And if you feel your earlobes are too large or out of proportion, earlobe reduction can create a more balanced and natural shape.
Whatever the issue, there’s a way to bring back confidence in your appearance. The best way to decide is by talking to a skilled surgeon who can recommend the right option based on your needs and goals.
How Does Earlobe Repair Work?
Here’s what to expect during the process:
1. Consultation and Preparation
Before the procedure, a consultation is conducted to assess your health status and goals and examine your earlobes. This is also the perfect time to ask questions and set realistic expectations. Make sure to discuss with your surgeon any health issues that will affect wound healing (diabetes, smoking, thinning medications). Before the surgery, make sure that your earlobes are clean.
2. The Procedure
The procedure typically lasts for about 30–60 minutes. After numbing the area with local anesthesia, the surgeon trims any damaged excess tissue and stitches your earlobe back together. Depending on the specific case, either absorbable or permanent sutures may be used to close the incision.
3. Aftercare and Recovery
After the surgery, you’ll be given an aftercare recovery instruction. This includes pain management and wound care. This is to ensure proper wound healing and prevent further complications with your earlobes.
Most patients are able to return to their normal routine within a day or two, but full healing usually takes about 4 to 6 weeks. It is advised to avoid stretching and thinning the earlobe again. If you still enjoy wearing heavier earrings, a good way to do this is to alternate between light studs and the larger, hanging earrings. Also, avoid too much sun exposure as it can result in skin pigmentation of the incision lines.
4. Follow-Up and Long-Term Results
Stitches are removed after 7–10 days. Over time, scars fade and blend naturally into the earlobe. If you want to re-pierce your ears, wait until they’re fully healed—typically 2–3 months after surgery.
Who is a good candidate for earlobe repair procedure?
Most patients try earlobe repair if they:
- Have a torn or split earlobe from trauma or heavy earrings worn
- Want to repair stretched or gauged earlobes
- Have fine scar tissue or irregularities from previous injuries
- Are in good overall health with no active infections
A consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon, like Dr. Diehl, can confirm if earlobe repair is right for you.
How much is Earlobe Repair?
On average, the cost of earlobe repair ranges from $500 to $2,000, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. The final cost varies depending on the damage to your ear, procedure, facility fees, and the surgeon’s experience. Since every case is unique, it’s best to schedule a consultation with a qualified surgeon.
Earlobe Repair FAQS
Is the surgery painful?
Not at all! The procedure is done under local anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain. Mild swelling or discomfort during recovery is normal but manageable.
Is earlobe repair covered by insurance?
Earlobe repair is typically classified as a cosmetic procedure by most insurance companies and is not covered. However, coverage may be available in cases where the repair is deemed medically necessary, such as for congenital defects or injuries.
Are the results permanent?
Yes, once fully healed, the results are long-lasting, as long as you avoid heavy earrings or activities that might damage your earlobes again.
Are there risks or side effects of earlobe surgery?
Like any surgical procedure, earlobe surgery carries some risks and potential side effects. These may include infection, scarring, asymmetry, or changes in sensation. However, these are rare, and choosing an experienced surgeon significantly reduces these risks.
How long does it take to recover from earlobe surgery?
Earlobe repair surgery typically takes 6 to 8 weeks to heal, but it can vary depending on your health and how well you follow post-operative care.
Can I wear earrings after earlobe repair?
Yes! You can re-pierce and wear lightweight earrings about 6-8 weeks after surgery, once your earlobes are fully healed.
Will there be scars?
There may be minimal scarring, but it typically fades over time and is barely noticeable.
Ready to Restore Your Earlobes?
If you’re seeking earlobe repair in North Carolina, there’s no better place than Diehl Plastic Surgery Center. Whether you’re dealing with torn, stretched, or gauged earlobes, our expert team is here to help you achieve the results you’ve been looking for.
Schedule your consultation to learn more.
