Earlobe Surgery
Earlobe Surgery for a reduction or repair
Ears come in all shapes and sizes and may sometimes appear out of proportion with the rest of the face. Also, our earlobes continue to elongate as we age, which can contribute to an older look for some men and women. Heavy jewelry pulls the skin in other cases, creating a drooping or damaged lobe.
Earlobe surgery can repair earlobes that have been stretched or torn or stretched by a piercing known as gauging. Earlobe reduction or repair surgery performed by Cleveland plastic surgeon Dr. Diana Ponsky is not the same as ear pinning (otoplasty), which corrects protruding or misshapen ears. Earlobe surgery, known as lobuloplasty, can make lobes and ears appear smaller, in better proportion, and more symmetrical.
How It Helps
Earlobe surgery can correct genetically large earlobes and various forms of acquired changes. There are numerous ways of reducing large earlobes; the most common involves the removal of a pie-shaped wedge of tissue or the recontouring of the entire lobe. In the case of a stretched or gauged earlobe, we can reduce or repair the lobe and return your ears to a more pleasing, youthful shape.
BEFORE
What to expect before earlobe surgery
Double-board certified Dr. Diana Ponsky will begin your consultation by asking about your goals and expectations and will discuss any pre-existing health conditions or risk factors. After an examination and photographs, you will discuss a recommended course of treatment, outcomes, risks, or potential complications. Especially important is adhering to the post-surgical instructions about earring use to protect the earlobe in the early phase of healing.
DURING
What to expect during earlobe surgery
Earlobe surgery is an outpatient procedure done with local anesthesia. It takes about 45 minutes to one hour, although your time in surgery will depend on the extent of the procedure. The surgeon will freshen the piercing tract, remove excess tissue (if necessary), and suture the lobe together.
AFTER
What to expect after earlobe surgery
Depending on the surgical approach, you may want to stay home from work for about a week or two. Ice should be applied to your forehead and eyes for the first few days to control swelling. Elevate your head to promote healing, including sleeping on your back at a slight elevation. Some bruising and numbness around your eyes and brow are common and will subside over time. Be careful with strain on your body, such as vigorous activity or heavy lifting, for at least two weeks. Suture removal at your first post-surgical visit will be quick and uncomplicated -plan to schedule regular check-ups one year after surgery to monitor results and healing.
