Earlobe Repair
The pliable skin of the earlobes can easily become damaged. Therefore, earlobe repair is a very common procedure. Sometimes, accidents cause splits, rips, or tears. Over time, they can grow droopy and stretched out. Some people don’t like the size of their earlobes and wish to improve their ears’ appearance.
Dr. Gallacher can surgically repair torn or stretched earlobes under local anesthesia right in the office.
Some of the Causes For Earlobe Damage
Heavy earrings can weigh on the delicate skin of the earlobe. As we age, the body’s skin stretches, including the earlobe. A piercing placed close to the bottom of the earlobe will droop faster.
Some people stretch their earlobes with increasingly large gauges, and may later regret the decision.
Snagging an earring on clothing, having it pulled by a curious child can cause rips, an altercation or sports accident can all result in damage. Sudden earlobe trauma can result in a rip through the bottom of the earlobe, splitting it into two.
Surgical Earlobe Repair
Dr. Gallacher repairs earlobes in our comfortable office in an outpatient procedure. Surgery begins with administration of local anesthesia to numb the area. If only a partial tear, the repair may involve a few stitches. A total lobe tear or severe stretching may also involve removing affected skin. Since the result may have less flesh, earlobes may appear shorter than before the surgery. However, Dr. Gallacher creates a natural-looking result.
An earlobe repair procedure takes between fifteen minutes to an hour. Most patients drive themselves home afterward.
Surgical Aftercare
After the procedure, the treated area will be bandaged to prevent infection. The bandaging also minimizes swelling and helps maintain the desired shape. This will need to remain in place for several days after the surgery.
There may be some bruising and minor pain. Otherwise, normal activities can be resumed after the procedure. Over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be taken to manage discomfort.
In 6 to 8 weeks, the earlobe(s) will be fully healed. Earlobes will appear natural and symmetrical with normal coloration and contouring. If there is any scarring, it will be minimal and mostly hidden.
After 2 to 3 months, ears can be re-pierced if desired. Dr. Gallacher recommends small earrings. Heavy or large earrings should not be worn since the repaired skin is weaker after the repair.
The end result will be repaired and more pleasing looking earlobes.