Earlobe Repair in Cleveland, OH
Whether caused by years of wearing heavy earrings, a sudden accidental pull, or the use of large-gauge jewelry, a torn or stretched earlobe can be a significant source of self-consciousness. Unlike many other minor skin injuries, a split earlobe will not heal back together on its own; it requires a specialized surgical touch to restore its natural contour and structural integrity.
Dr. Rodney Green performs earlobe repair (lobuloplasty) as a quick, in-office procedure designed to erase signs of trauma and allow you to wear your favorite jewelry with confidence once again. He also reconstructs the tract for the earing at the same time using some of the skin from the cleft. This means that a sterile earing is placed at the time of surgery and no piercing will be needed later.
Common Reasons for Earlobe Repair
Earlobe damage is very common and can happen to anyone. Dr. Green typically treats:
- Full Tears: When an earring is accidentally ripped through the lobe, leaving a complete split.
- Elongated Piercings: When the weight of heavy “statement” earrings gradually stretches a small hole into a long, unsightly slit.
- Gauged Earlobes: Closing and reshaping lobes that have been intentionally stretched with large-diameter plugs or tunnels.
- Aging & Sagging: Thinning or drooping lobes that have lost volume and elasticity over time.
The Procedure: Fast, Simple, and In-Office
Earlobe repair is a minimally invasive procedure that usually takes less than 30 minutes per ear.
- Local Anesthesia: Dr. Green numbs the earlobe with a tiny needle. You will be fully awake and comfortable but won’t feel any pain.
- Refreshing the Edges: To get the ear to heal back together, Dr. Green carefully removes the thin layer of scarred skin within the tear.
- Precision Suturing: Using fine, specialized stitches, he meticulously realigns the edges to reconstruct a smooth, natural-looking curve.
- Skin from the cleft is rolled into a tube to create a new tract for the earing at the original location.
- Immediate Results: You can see the restored shape of your earlobe immediately before you even leave the office.
Recovery: What to Expect
- Downtime: There is no downtime. Most patients drive themselves home and return to work or normal activities the same day.
- Suture Removal: Depending on the technique, Dr. Green will remove your stitches about 7 to 10 days after the procedure.
- Scarring: Because the sutures are so fine and the earlobe heals exceptionally well, the resulting scar is typically a faint, thin line that becomes virtually invisible over time.
- Sleeping: It is recommended to avoid sleeping directly on the repaired ear for the first week to prevent any tension on the stitches.
Important Note on Your Recovery & Results
Every individual’s body is unique, and as such, recovery timelines and final aesthetic results will vary from patient to patient. Factors such as your natural anatomy, skin elasticity, and how closely you follow post-operative instructions will influence your healing journey.
While Dr. Green and our team are here to support you every step of the way, your safety is a partnership. It is vital that you contact our office immediately at 440-449-8880 if you notice any unusual symptoms, such as excessive pain, unexpected swelling, redness, or fever. Early communication ensures we can provide the necessary guidance to keep your recovery on track.
Earlobe Repair FAQs
Can I get my ear re-pierced?
Yes! However, you must wait until the tissue is fully healed and strong again. Dr. Green typically recommends waiting 6 to 12 weeks before re-piercing. It is vital to pierce the ear slightly to the side of the scar, not directly through it, to prevent a new tear.
Is the procedure covered by insurance?
Earlobe repair is usually considered a cosmetic procedure and is not covered by insurance. However, if the tear was the result of a sudden traumatic injury (like a dog bite or accident), coverage may vary.
Will the repair look natural?
Dr. Green’s goal is “invisible” restoration. He focuses on matching the height and curve of the earlobe to your other ear for a symmetrical, balanced appearance.
Can I fix my "droopy" ears without surgery?
For minor sagging or thinning due to aging, Dr. Green can often use dermal fillers (like Juvéderm®) to “plump” the lobe and provide a more youthful foundation for earrings without an incision.
Consultation Checklist: Questions to Ask Dr. Green
- Based on the size of my tear/gauge, will my earlobe be the same size as it was before?
- Will you be using dissolvable or removable stitches?
- How long should I wait before wearing “clip-on” earrings versus getting a new piercing?
- Can you address my stretched piercings and sagging lobes in the same session?
Achieve Your Dream Body With Our Experienced Surgical Team
We understand that your body is unique, and your goals for surgery are too. That’s why we offer a variety of surgical procedures to help you achieve your desired results.
Dr. Rodney Green is dedicated to providing you with the highest quality care and support. We will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that meets your individual needs and expectations.
Call us at 440-449-8880 or email us at drgreen@dr-rodgreen.com to take the first step toward the body of your dreams. to take the first step toward the body of your dreams.