At a Glance
Earlobe repair is a safe and effective way to correct ears that have been stretched, split or torn by tribal piercings or other earrings. This commonly happens when an ear piercing, sometimes referred to as flesh tunnels, has gradually had its diameter increased.
This is a suitable procedure for both men and women who have stretched earlobes.
There are some people who are not happy with the size of their earlobes because they feel that they are too large. In these cases, an earlobe reduction can be performed by removing excess earlobe tissue. When choosing earlobe repair, it is important that you consult with a qualified surgeon who has experience in these kinds of repairs.
About
Should I have my earlobes repaired?
Large earrings and plugs will create a hole in the earlobe, which becomes bigger as the diameter of the earring is increased. After a certain size, the earlobe will never contract to its original size and shape. The altered shape of the earlobe is often difficult to hide, particularly for those who have shorter hair.
Sometimes the stretched or split earlobe will negatively impact your appearance and in some instances your work or career. In these cases, earlobe repair surgery is an appropriate option.
Dangers of ear stretching
- Can cause an ‘ear blow-out’, which happens when the skin inside of the earlobe is forced out through the back of the piercing
- Earlobe repair is the only option for stretched ears to go back to normal
- Can cause physical pain
Candidates
Earlobe repair is a suitable procedure for any person who has had large jewellery or sustained an injury which has caused their earlobes to become damaged. Those who have naturally large earlobes or whose earlobes have enlarged with age may also wish to undertake this procedure.
This procedure is suitable for those who are over 18 years old.
Procedure
Centre for Surgery is one of the most highly regarded providers of earlobe repair.
Earlobe repair is performed under a local anaesthetic, so you will still be awake but unable to feel any pain. The surgery involves removing any excess tissue, with surgeons applying fine internal and external stitches to the earlobe. This will create a normal earlobe shape.
Earlobe repair is performed as a day case, so you will be able to return home on the same day.
Recovery
Once the earlobe repair surgery has been completed, you will have a noticeable scar on the ear. This will appear red right after the procedure, however, with time this scar will reduce in colour and be less noticeable. It will take between four to six months for the earlobe to have a normal appearance again. At this point, there will be no sign of the previous piercing. If you are wanting to re-pierce your ears, you will have to wait until two months after the surgery.
Want to wear earrings earlier?
During your consultation, it is best to discuss with your surgeon if you are wanting to wear earrings earlier. Centre for Surgery will be able to perform the rotational flap technique, which will allow you to wear earrings sooner. This procedure will take around 50-60 minutes on each earlobe.
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Before Earlobe repair 1 After
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Before Earlobe repair 2 After
FAQs
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When should I have earlobe repair surgery?You need an earlobe repair surgery if you feel that stretched or split earlobes are affecting your appearance impacting your work and career, the earlobe repair surgical team at Centre for Surgery can provide a full range of surgical treatment options.
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How is earlobe repair surgery performed?The procedure involves removing the excess tissue and using fine internal and external stitches in the earlobe to create a normal shape.
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What anaesthetic is used?Earlobe repair is performed under a local anaesthetic. This means you will be awake during the procedure but unable to feel any discomfort in the treatment area.
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How long is the procedure going to take?Earlobe repair surgery takes approximately 30-40 minutes.
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What is the recovery period like?The procedure has zero downtime which means the recovery period is fast with minimal discomfort and the patient can take painkillers if needed.
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Are there any risks associated with earlobe repair surgery?The complications linked to the procedure are minimal. Most common risks usually are infection, excessive scar formation, and notching, but these can be minimised with maximum safety optimisation.
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Will I be left with scars?There will be small scars on the ears which will look red after the surgery, but will eventually fade to a pale silvery colour. The earlobe should look almost completely normal with no obvious signs of the previous piercing after 4-6 months.
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Will I be able to wear earrings again?Yes, ears can be re-pierced 2 months after the operation has taken place.
What To Expect
Find the right time
Our friendly and knowledgeable patient coordinators will speak with you to learn about your requirements, it’s all confidential and your information will be used to assess whether a procedure is right for you. If the procedure is right for you, we’ll organise a convenient date and time for you to visit to come and visit Marianne, our patient relationship manager at our bespoke central London clinic.
3D Crisalix imaging
Marianne will take time to listen to your needs and requirements and you you will receive a complementary 3D crisalix scan to enhance your experience. Marianne will give you a rough idea of guide prices at this stage. You can then be booked in to to see a surgeon of your choice based on their individual field of expertise.
Personalised quote
At the surgical consultation, you will meet directly with the plastic surgeon. The surgeon will thoroughly assess you to determine your suitability and advise of the best options for you. Your surgeon will then explain how the procedure will work including our innovative ClearSleep™ anaesthesia technique for those who chose to be asleep for their procedure. You will receive your personalised quote the next working day from your patient coordinator.