Considering Torn Earlobe Repair
When earrings get snagged in clothing, pulled accidentally, or even yanked by a small child, the result can be a torn earlobe. Earlobes can also become stretched from the wear and tear of heavy jewelry, or earring holes can become gradually enlarged over time. If you’re not satisfied with the appearance of your earlobes, or you have damage that makes it difficult to wear the jewelry corrective surgery of the earlobe will be required.
The Torn Earlobe Repair Procedure
Depending on your individual circumstances, torn earlobe repair can be performed immediately following an injury, or delayed until the wound is healed, and tissue is no longer inflamed. The specific method of repair will depend on how much tissue was lost, and the nature of your injury. A variety of different techniques can be performed to close the wound, redistribute tissue, and reshape the ear to match your natural ear shape. Torn ear lobe repair is usually performed as an outpatient procedure in Dr. Lille’s office using a local anesthetic.
Getting back to normal after Torn Earlobe Repair
After the earlobe repair procedure, most patients don’t need pain medication, although Dr. Lille will recommend an over-the-counter medication, if necessary.
Two days after the torn earlobe repair, it is fine to get the ears wet while showering or washing the face. This will not risk infections for the reconstructed earlobe. Avoid swimming in a pool, lake, or hot tub.
Patients will want to avoid sleeping on their side for one week. Enough pillows should be arranged when sleeping to prevent any pressure on the repaired earlobe. If the patient tends to move a lot when sleeping, it is highly recommended to sleep on a recliner chair. This will also keep the head elevated and reduce swelling during recovery.
In most cases, the only dressing needed is a thin layer of antibiotic ointment, and stitches are usually removed in about two weeks. Sutures at the front of the ear will be removed in the first week after the earlobe repair. The sutures at the back of the ear will be removed in the second week after the procedure.
Schedule your exercise or any strenuous activity for at least 2 to 3 weeks after the procedure. Contact sports should be avoided in the meantime to prevent any ear injury.
Can I Wear Earrings After Torn Earlobe Repair?
It will take some time before the newly repaired earlobe can be pierced. Ear piercing can be done once the earlobe is fully healed in 1 to 2 months.
Avoid getting an ear piercing in the same area where earlobe repair was done. The scar tissue may cause complications. Consult with Dr. Lille before considering a new ear piercing in the newly repaired earlobe.
Contact Us to Learn More
For more information on torn earlobe repair in Scottsdale, contact Scottsdale Plastic Surgeon at (480) 661-6197 and schedule a consultation. Dr. Sean Lille will perform a comfortable procedure and safely restore the appearance of your earlobe.
