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Earlobe repair is a minor surgical procedure that corrects torn, split, or gauge-stretched earlobes. Split earlobes most commonly result from heavy earrings, earring trauma, or ear gauging. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia in the office and takes approximately 30 minutes. After healing, the earlobes can be re-pierced. MetroDerm’s Center for Plastic Surgery performs earlobe repairs with meticulous surgical technique for natural-looking, symmetric results.
Who Needs Earlobe Repair?
- Partially or fully split earlobes from earring trauma or heavy gauge earrings
- Gauge (stretched) earlobes — from ear gauging/stretching practices; various sizes can be corrected
- Elongated piercing holes that are not yet fully split but are unsightly or at risk of tearing
- Keloid formation around prior earlobe piercings (may require additional treatment)
The Earlobe Repair Procedure
After applying topical and local anesthesia to the earlobe, the surgeon freshens the edges of the split or stretched tissue to create clean wound margins, then carefully sutures the earlobe together in multiple layers. For gauge repairs, tissue is rearranged to reconstruct the natural earlobe contour. The procedure is performed in the office with no need for a surgical facility.
Healing and Re-Piercing
Sutures are removed in approximately one week. The repaired earlobe should be kept clean and dry during healing. New piercings can usually be placed 4-6 months after repair, positioned slightly away from the repair site. Patients should avoid wearing heavy earrings after re-piercing to prevent recurrence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does earlobe repair take?
A: Earlobe repair is a quick in-office procedure typically taking 20-40 minutes per earlobe under local anesthesia. Most patients return to normal activity the same day.
Q: Can I re-pierce my ears after earlobe repair?
A: Yes. After the repaired tissue has fully healed, typically 4-6 months, new piercings can be placed in a slightly different location from the repair site. Avoid heavy or dangling earrings after re-piercing to prevent re-tearing.
Q: Will earlobe repair leave a scar?
A: There will be a fine line scar where the split was repaired; however, when placed in natural earlobe creases, this scar typically fades to near-invisibility within 6-12 months. MetroDerm’s plastic surgeons use fine sutures and meticulous technique to minimize visible scarring.
Procedures & Treatments
