It is common for people who wear earrings to experience torn earlobes. Many times the earlobe split is completely while other times the earlobe is torn but does not split completely. Furthermore, after years of wearing earrings, some women experience stretched earlobes that are not aesthetically pleasing. Fortunately, these types of ear lobe injuries are simple to repair. 

Who is a good Candidate for Simple Ear Lobe repair

In general, good candidates for ear lobe repair include: 

• Healthy individuals who do not have a life-threatening illness or medical conditions that can impair healing

• Individuals with a positive outlook and specific goals in mind

About the Procedure

To perform a simple ear lobe repair surgery you will be given a local anesthetic. A small incision is made under the earlobe. There will be three layers of stitches to repair this type of injury to the lobe. The sutures on the inside of the earlobe and the sutures on the outside are dissolvable. The third layer of sutures on the outside of the ear are non-dissolvable and will need to be removed within 7-10 days. Please see the 2 step diagram below. 

How long will the procedure take?

A simple split earlobe repair takes approximately 15 minutes to complete. 

Recovery

During your simple ear lobe repair recovery, lubricating ointment on the incision and cold compresses may be applied. 

You will be given specific instructions that may include how to care for your incisions, specific concerns to look for at the surgical site or in your overall health, and when to follow-up with Dr. Jaggi. Avoid significant sun exposure. Swimming is not recommended for two weeks. 

Initial healing may include some swelling, bruising, and discomfort that can be controlled with medication and cold compresses. Irritation at the incision sites is also possible. 

You will be able to return to work right away. 

Preparing For Your Surgery

Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, and herbal supplements as they can increase bleeding. Please arrange for a responsible adult to take you and pick you up from your surgery and stay with you for the first 24 hours after surgery.