Our Services - Earlobe Reconstruction

General overview of the service:

Ear piercing is a well-established cultural and fashion-related practice from ancient times. Most people do not realize the common complications involved, such as keloid formation, infection, tissue loss from trauma, and tearing of the earlobe, most commonly from repeated stress of wearing heavy earrings. Newer trends such as “spacers”, can leave a large deficit in the earlobe, should someone choose to remove or discontinue their use. Torn earlobes are also referred to as cleft or split earlobes. Repair of a torn earlobe is a common procedure encountered in facial plastic surgery and can easily be accomplished by Dr. Friedman.

How the service is done:

Earlobe reconstruction can repair or reconstruct the earlobe and restore it to a more appealing form and functionality. The degree of the earlobe tear or deficit from a spacer or large gauge ear jewelry helps to determine the type of repair needed. Dissolvable stitches are typically used, and due to their color and small size, they are well-camouflaged. Because the procedure is done using local anesthesia, just about anyone who needs an earlobe repair is a candidate.

What methods are used:

Torn or elongated earlobes can be repaired with a simple procedure to not only fix the earlobe, but also to strengthen it. This surgery is called a cross-over earlobe repair and is the most complete way to repair a fully torn earlobe. Only local anesthesia is required. It typically takes less than one hour to complete in the office. When a large deficit is created from gauge piercings or spacers, a more complex technique, referred to as a “star-plasty” is required.

Follow-up treatments or next steps:

There is minimal discomfort after earlobe repair and if necessary, Tylenol is effective for any mild discomfort. Patients can return to work immediately following the procedure. In most cases, dissolvable sutures are placed, so no suture removal is necessary. In addition, no time off work is necessary when undergoing earlobe reconstruction as the healing process is fast and uncomplicated.

Contact our office:

To find out more about our Earlobe Reconstruction service, visit Dr. Friedman’s office locations at 7545 E Angus Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85251 and 903 N. Beeline Highway, Suite A, Payson, Arizona 85541, or book an appointment by calling 480-664-0125 today.