Do stretched or torn earlobes prevent you from wearing your choice of earrings? There is a relatively simple, outpatient surgical procedure that can correct the problem. After a few weeks of healing, you’ll be able to wear your favorite earrings again with confidence.
Earlobes can stretch over time. Holes from piercings can gradually enlarge and elongate. Collagen loss as we age causes earlobes to become thinner. The earlobes may no longer be able to sustain the weight of heavy earrings. Damage may also occur from a trauma, such as an earring getting caught on clothing or a child pulling on an earring. Some people purposely stretch their lobes over time in a procedure called gauging. An earlobe that is stretched may eventually split or tear.
Can earlobes heal themselves?
A stretched or torn earlobe doesn’t generally heal itself. Each side may heal separately without coming together. Even if some healing occurs, the result may not be aesthetically pleasing.
Can dermal fillers help?
Dermal fillers can add volume to the earlobe and restore shape but will not repair a tear. However, fillers are a great way to provide strength in the earlobe to support earrings if there has not been a tear. Dermal fillers in the earlobes will also help smooth out wrinkles. They typically last for 12-18 months. Surgical repair is required for a partial or complete tear. Dermal fillers may be used in coordination with a surgical repair to provide the most optimal results, especially for patients seeking stronger, younger looking earlobes.
What is an earlobe repair like?
Surgical repair is a short, in-office procedure performed with local anesthesia. An incision is made above the tear or stretched out area. Damaged tissue is removed and excess tissue is trimmed away. The lobe is reshaped to its original size, and the incision is stitched closed. The surgery takes less than 30 minutes per ear, and both earlobes can be done at the same time, if needed. There is little to no downtime, and the patient can resume regular activities.
Once the earlobe is completely healed, it can be pierced again. It’s important to wait for clearance from the surgeon to avoid damage. An earlobe may appear to be healed from the outside, but the inner tissue takes longer to heal completely.
Plastic surgery can help!
There is no need to live with stretched or torn earlobes. If earlobe damage makes it difficult or impossible to wear the earrings you love, contact Boca Raton Plastic Surgery Center. Dr. Cristina Keusch, Board certified plastic surgeon, will assess the damaged or deformed earlobes and recommend the best option for repair. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
