The wearing of accessories to enhance our appearance is part of our culture and has been throughout history. This is especially popular in the category of ear jewelry. While various parts of the ear can be pierced, the earlobe is the most common site. Unfortunately, the earlobe has no structural support because it contains no cartilage unlike the rest of the ear. As a result, the weight of large earrings or trauma can pull them through the earlobe, leaving a tear or elongated hole. The split earlobe not only causes a noticeable cosmetic defect but also makes it difficult to continue to wear any ear jewelry.

In reality, an earlobe repair is a quite simple office procedure that is done under local anesthesia. The split edges are opened and a linear line of closure is done of either a partial or complete earlobe tear. Sutures are placed on both the front and backside of the earlobe. There are no other dressings. There is no downtime and you can resume your normal activities immediately.  There may be some mild swelling of the earlobe and the fine sutures are slightly visible. Sutures are removed in 7 to 10 days. A fine line scar will be left from the new/old hole down to the rim of the earlobe but this will be obscured by new earrings. Typically once the earlobe is repaired; it can be re-pierced again six to eight weeks later. As a courtesy to their patients, Dr. Munavalli or Dr. Goslen will re-pierce the repaired earlobes after they have healed.

Repair of torn earlobes is a simple, uncomplicated and very effective procedure.  If you are struggling with split earlobes, call us to schedule your consultation today!