One of the most popular procedures in the United States today is earlobe repair. People have often waited years before seeking help for earlobe repair surgery. The problem is that the soft tissue has shrunk after removing heavy earrings or gauges, but a significant hole remains.
Split earlobes or elongated earlobe holes have several causes:
Dr. Vanek will take a medical history and perform a physical exam. Health issues that can affect the healing of wounds (history of smoking, diabetes) or extended bleeding (medicines, some herbal preparations) are discussed.
Dr. Vanek will discuss your goals and then examine the hole or earlobe split to determine the condition and size of the hole itself. Examination of the surrounding tissue and anatomy of the ear will also be done.
Split earlobe repair will need closure, but some will require a complex tissue rotation. Most of the time, both earlobes can be done at the same visit.
Earlobe repair is an outpatient office procedure under local anesthesia, and most patients can drive home by themselves.
After the earlobe is cleaned and a local anesthetic is applied, the excess skin is removed. Depending on your anatomy, your tissue may be rotated. The wound is then closed in layers so that the outer part of the incision does not have too much tension. Usually, a fine scar remains after healing.
The recovery process after ear lobe repair surgery is generally quick and painless.
You may experience some swelling and bruising for a few days, but these side effects should subside within a week.
Most people can return to work and their normal activities within a few days after the procedure.
Following the post-operative instructions provided by Dr. Vanek will ensure proper healing, minimize the risk of infection, and help with successful recovery.
This may include:
Usually, Dr. Vanek asks patients to wait at least three months before re-piercing their ears. He also asks that any new piercings be at least three millimeters from the old piercing site.
After the earlobe is healed, many patients say they should have “done this years ago.” This type of outpatient office procedure makes a big difference in a patient’s daily life.
For more information, please see Dr. Vanek, a board-certified plastic surgeon, to discuss your case. Dr. Vanek will be able to answer your questions and perform the repair.
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Dr. Vanek will listen to you and “hold your hand” through your entire process, and he has taught his entire staff to do the same. He understands and respects your privacy and sensitivity. His professional but familial approach will quickly help you become very comfortable with him and with how he will help change your life.
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