Earlobe Repair
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Earlobes often need repair either to correct tears from an earring, or to close the enlarged holes that can develop from placing a gauge or other piercing in the earlobe.
Our Approach
Almost all earlobe injuries, tears, or enlarged holes can be repaired in the office under local anesthesia.
When there is an enlarged earring hole, it may be possible to simply remove the skin that has formed in the elongated hole, and close the hole altogether. If an earring hole is still desired, Dr. Nachbar will re-pierce the ear after about six weeks from the repair.
The procedure is somewhat more complex when the earring has pulled all the way through the earlobe. When this happens, there is a risk that a "notch" will form if it is simply closed. Therefore, Dr. Nachbar makes a small flap of skin to bridge the gap where the notch would have formed.
The procedure is even more complex when a gauge hole is being closed, because the remaining earlobe tissue is elongated. There are several designs of repair that Dr. Nachbar uses to close the gauge hole, depending on the location and amount of the remaining tissue.
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More Information
Any earring, but especially heavy ones, can pull on the hole created by piercing the ear, and cause it to stretch and lengthen, or even to pull all the way through, leaving a "split" where the earring hole was.
Often, a hoop earring may have become caught on something (or may have been grabbed by a child), resulting in an earlobe tear.
Earlobe "gauging" is also gaining in popularity. However, it is not uncommon for a patient, having placed an earlobe gauge when younger, to now find that the enlarged hole in the earlobe is interfering with social and job prospects.
Photos
Scottsdale Repair of Severely Stretched Earlobes from Gauges
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About UsContact Us
When you come in for your complimentary consultation, Dr. Nachbar will evaluate the problem with the earlobe or earlobes, and discuss your options. We look forward to meeting you!
Earlobe Repair FAQs
How noticeable will the repaired earlobe be after the procedure?
After the procedure, your earlobe will likely have some minor swelling and redness that gradually fades over the following weeks. While the initial sutures are visible, these will be removed as your earlobe heals, and any scarring tends to be minimal and well-hidden over time. Once healing is complete, most people find the repaired earlobe looks natural and are pleased with how subtle the results appear.
Will I need any follow-up visits after earlobe repair?
Yes, a follow-up appointment is usually scheduled to monitor your healing progress and remove any stitches, if applicable. This follow-up, typically around one to two weeks after the repair, allows your provider to assess the repair and give any additional care instructions. The follow-up is a great time to ask questions about your healing to ensure everything is on track.
Can I sleep on the side of my repaired earlobe after the procedure?
It's best to avoid putting pressure on your repaired earlobe while it's healing. If you're a side sleeper, you may need to adjust your sleeping position to avoid placing pressure on the healing tissue. Using a soft neck pillow can help you feel comfortable sleeping on your back if that’s not your usual position. Generally, within a few weeks, most patients feel fine returning to their normal sleeping habits.