Can Torn Earlobes Be Repaired?

Earlobe repair is a fairly common procedure that is both straightforward and relatively inexpensive. So, if you’ve had an earring tear through the lobe or simply don’t enjoy your gauges anymore, here are the facts about torn earlobe repair.

Earlobe Repair is an Outpatient Procedure

Earlobe Repair surgery is a simple procedure for a certified plastic surgeon. At Gabbay Plastic Surgery in Beverly Hills, you can typically expect the entire process wraps up in twenty minutes to an hour. You can even drive yourself home afterward.

General Anesthesia is Not Required for Ear Lobe Repair

This procedure focuses on the soft cartilage of the ear. That means limited blood-flow and minimal risk. As a result, you do not require general anesthetic for this procedure. Instead, your surgeon will use a local anesthetic to numb the tissue that needs to be removed and stitched back together.

The Post-Surgery Process is Fairly Short

You may experience some discomfort after surgery. Most patients say their ear(s) only feel sore afterward, so patients generally don’t need any pain medication after surgery. You may choose to take something over the counter, but make sure your surgeon approves it first.

For the first week, you will need to avoid putting any pressure on the affected ear(s). That includes not sleeping on them, so you should sleep with your torso partially elevated to avoid rolling over during the night. Unless your surgeon uses dissolving sutures, they will need to be removed about a week after surgery.

For the first month or so, follow all of your surgeon’s post-operative instructions to ensure proper healing and minimize scarring. In most cases, your surgeon will tell you how to keep the wound clean and instruct you to keep it moisturized by using something like petroleum jelly or an anti-scarring cream.

Scars Can Usually Be Hidden

If you have a history of large scars or keloids, tell your surgeon ahead of time. Knowing that your body is likely to scar differently will allow them to plan their sutures with that in mind. In most cases, a board-certified plastic surgeon will be able to hide your scars away from wandering eyes, but there is the chance of some visibility. In these cases, talk to your surgeon about post-op scar care.

You Can Choose to Re-Pierce Your Ears

Some surgeons will offer to leave a small opening for patients who wish to continue wearing earrings once their ears are completely healed, but you can also choose to re-pierce your ears at a later date. However, you should wait at least two months before re-piercing your ears or wearing earrings. The waiting period will ensure that the ear has fully healed.

Additionally, discuss your decision with your surgeon, as they will be able to advise you as to where you can safely place the new piercing without complications. Take their guidelines to an industry professional at a reputable shop to ensure positive results.

Torn Earlobe Repair Doesn’t Cost As Much As You Think

Ear lobe repairs range from about $400 to $1000 per ear. A $600 difference seems pretty steep, but as with all plastic surgery, you get what you pay for. During your initial consultations, make sure you understand the breakdown of costs and don’t shy away if experience is a part of that calculation.

Carefully peruse the before and after photographs of their previous patients. If the work is flawless, then it is worth paying the higher price point. Your ears are highly visible, even more so if you plan on wearing flashy earrings afterward, so you want them to look like they’ve never seen a scalpel before.