Torn Earlobe Repair
A torn earlobe can initially be painful, and then become a cosmetic reminder of the injury to your ear. A torn earlobe may be something that keeps you from looking and feeling like the best version of yourself. A split earlobe can be caused by a traumatic incident or simply by wearing heavy earrings. No matter the cause of your torn earlobe, Dr. Michele Green in NYC can perform a quick, easy earlobe repair surgery – with just a few sutures and can restore the appearance of your earlobes and your self-esteem. It is important to be selective when looking for a medical professional to perform your earlobe repair procedure. Consulting a board-certified plastic surgeon or board-certified dermatologist, like Dr. Green, for your earlobe repair will decrease the risk of unwanted side effects such as infection, pain, and scarring. Additionally, earlobe tears can be worsened due to the natural decrease in collagen production that is a part of the aging process. Dr. Green is an expert at suturing tears that occur on the earlobe, repairing any damage, and ensuring that patients who are interested in having their ears re-pierced can do so at her office in as few as six weeks.
In addition to her ability to effectively suture torn earlobes, Dr. Green is an expert in all forms of earlobe rejuvenation. For patients experiencing sagging skin that is preventing them from wearing heavier earrings, Dr. Green offers dermal fillers to boost collagen production and provide additional support to the skin. Scarring, as a result of facelift surgery or ear piercings, can also occur on the earlobe but can be ameliorated in Dr. Green’s office with the help of laser treatments, dermal fillers, or cortisone injections – depending on the type of scar. When you begin your consultation with Dr. Green, she will assess the damage and treatment area to determine the treatment, or series of treatments, that will be best to meet your needs.
Dr. Michele Green is an experienced, board-certified dermatologist who has been expertly treating patients in her Upper East Side, New York City office for more than 25 years. Frequently voted as one of the best dermatologists in New York City, Dr. Green excels at a number of medical and cosmetic treatments, including dermal filler injections, Botox, laser treatments, chemical peels and other means of facial rejuvenation and anti-aging. When you work with Dr. Green, you will have the opportunity to discuss your specific skin concerns and develop a customized treatment plan that meets your needs and aesthetic goals.
Before & After of Earlobe repair – 3 months
What causes a torn earlobe?
There are many potential causes of torn earlobes ranging from accidental damage, to age-related collagen loss, to deliberate stretching of the earlobe. Patients with traditionally pierced ears run the risk of damaging or tearing the earlobe by wearing heavy earrings over time that can stretch the delicate thin skin of the earlobe, making it more vulnerable to trauma. Furthermore, any accidental catching and pulling of an earring – such as having it pulled by a child or an animal or caught on an article of clothing – can tear the piercing hole further or can cause the earlobe to rip all the way through. Having multiple earrings too close together or too close to the bottom of the earlobe over time can also result in torn earlobes. In such cases, repair to the earlobe will require suturing the wound. Other patients simply have sagging or drooping earlobes due to age and the natural loss of collagen over time. By restoring this lost volume in the earlobes through the injection of dermal fillers such as Restylane® and Juvederm®, the earlobe is rejuvenated and makes it easier to sit your earrings properly on the earlobes.
Outside of accidental injury, it has become fashionable over the years to stretch the earlobe to insert larger ear ornaments such as “flesh tunnels” and “flesh plugs” within the earlobe itself. The practice, also known as gauging, causes an increasingly larger sized hole to form over time. At the earlier stages of this process, the hole can be reversed. However, as the hole in the earlobe increases in size, it becomes increasingly difficult to reverse. In these cases, the size of the hole in question will determine how best to repair the torn earlobe.
Can a torn earlobe be repaired?
While ripping the earlobe can be painful and traumatic, the torn earlobe can be repaired by an expert dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green. Dr. Green uses the best cosmetic surgical techniques and dermal fillers to perform your torn earlobe repair and rejuvenate your torn or sagging earlobes. With Dr. Green performing the suture, the repair is clean and the wound generally heals into a small, fine scar. Additionally, six weeks following the treatment, patients can return to Dr. Green’s office to have the earlobe pierced again. Having Dr. Green perform the re-piercing ensures that the new piercing hole is the proper distance away from the repaired rip so as not to cause any further damage to the ear.
Do ripped earlobes heal?
Torn earlobes that commonly occur when an earring is suddenly tugged or pulled too hard most likely will not heal on their own. Similarly, stretched earlobes that occur when the earlobe is stretched from wearing heavy earrings or large gauges over time are unable to heal without surgical intervention. This is because scar tissue forms around the piercing hole during stretching or tearing that prevents the hole from closing naturally, as opposed to raw tissue that would close on its own. This is why it is advised to keep the earrings in at all times during the healing process after ear piercings: the skin will epithelizes around the earring to heal as a hole. Without the earring, the new piercing will heal completely on its own in one to four weeks. If you are struggling with torn or stretched earlobes and want to restore their form and function, seek an experienced dermatologist like Dr. Green who can assist you in feeling confident and being able to wear your favorite earrings again.
How to fix a torn earlobe
The earlobe tear can be repaired through an in-office surgical procedure where the scarred area of the earlobe is removed, and fine sutures are used to stitch up the hole. A tear can occur for a number of reasons and can vary in severity from a small tear as a result of frequently wearing heavy earrings or an acute event such as snagging an earring on clothing and tearing the lobe. While small tears may be able to heal on their own, the potential for thick scar tissue is high if a suture is not done by a healthcare professional. Failing to properly repair the tear may result in an inability to re-pierce the lobe and unsightly scarring. As such, the earlobe repair should be performed by an experienced plastic surgeon or dermatologist, such as Dr. Green.
To repair the torn earlobe, Dr. Green will start by injecting a local anesthetic to minimize any discomfort during the procedure. Then, she will remove the skin or scar tissue that surrounds the rip. This allows for a cleaner edge where Dr. Green can perform the fine stitches. For some more severe cases, there may need to be a redistribution of the earlobe skin in order to properly and neatly repair the rip. Dr. Green will make a determination of which method is necessary for your earlobe repair during your initial consultation appointment.
How do you repair a torn earlobe?
An earlobe split, which occurs when an accident causes the earlobe to tear all the way through, can be repaired by suturing the skin together. This occurs most commonly during an acute incident such as a child pulling on a dangling earring or an earring gets caught in an article of clothing. An earlobe split can also occur as a result of heavy earrings worn repeatedly over time that causes the delicate earlobe to tear.
An earlobe that has completely ripped will be more involved to repair and may take longer. Your earlobe will be numbed with a local anesthetic prior to the earlobe repair. Dr. Green will remove the skin surrounding the rip in order to create clean edges, at which point she will then be able to suture the edges back together. After the stitches are removed, it will likely take approximate six weeks for the wound to heal fully and most patients will be left with a fine scar.
What does the Earlobe Repair Procedure entail?
Torn earlobe repair is a simple in-office procedure performed by a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green. You will begin with a consultation appointment where Dr. Green will carefully assess the damage done to the earlobe and determine if you are a good candidate for earlobe repair procedure. She will attentively listen to your cosmetic goals and create a repair plan that works best for you.
The procedure itself is simple and relatively quick to perform, and does not require sedation or general anesthesia. Rather, Dr. Green will apply a local anesthesia to numb any potential pain. Dr. Green will then repair the torn or ripped earlobe by removing the scar tissue lining the tear, and then suture the wound together. The specific procedure used by Dr. Green to suture the tear will depend on the severity of the rip – whether the ear has been lightly torn or ripped all the way through. For patients with sagging earlobes, Dr. Green may employ the use of hyaluronic acid dermal fillers such as Juvederm or Restylane in order to lift and plump the lobe.
Following the treatment, Dr. Green will review the proper post-op care. Most patients do not require any special prescription pain medication after the treatment. Dr. Green typically recommends easy to access over-the-counter medication such as Advil or Tylenol if patients are experiencing any discomfort after treatment. Two weeks after the procedure, patients should return to the office in order to have the sutures removed. Six weeks after that suture removal, patients may return to have their ears re-pierced by Dr. Green. Re-piercing of the ears by Dr. Green guarantees that the piercings are performed safely, the new piercings are symmetrical, and the new holes are not causing additional unwanted damage to the repaired site.
How long does the torn earlobe repair take to perform?
In general, each torn earlobe repair takes 30 minutes to perform, and both earlobes can be repaired in one visit. The procedure may take longer if there is more than one tear or piercing which need to be repaired. We advise patients to refrain from swimming or saunas for two weeks while the sutures are in place and the earlobe repair is healing. Patients are sent home with written instructions on how to care for the surgical site.
What are my instructions after the torn earlobe repair?
Most patients are able to return to normal daily activities the same day of earlobe repair procedure. Pain medications are not typically necessary, though any discomfort or aches can be alleviated by Tylenol. If there is any discomfort, it typically resolves within 24 hours post-treatment. Dr. Green will instruct you to apply antibiotic ointment, such as Bacitracin ointment, to the earlobe repair surgery site. If the repair was extensive, she may have you take an oral antibiotic as well to prevent infection. You will be advised on how to take care of the area and the use of over-the-counter Steri-Strips. In addition, you should refrain from saunas, swimming, or submerging your head under water for the first week after the stitches are removed to allow the skin to heal from your surgical procedure. Dr. Green will have you return to the office for suture removal two weeks after the earlobe repair procedure. You can then schedule an appointment six weeks after suture removal for Dr. Green to re-pierce the ears. This timeline may be adjusted if sensitivity of the earlobes persist after the repair.
What is the recovery time from a torn earlobe repair?
The recovery is straightforward and the earlobe repair surgery will start to heal with the sutures in place. You should continue your topical wound care and antibiotics until the sutures are removed two weeks later. The two weeks after torn earlobe surgery is the most important in terms of routine topical wound care, and patients must closely follow Dr. Green’s skin care instructions for the two weeks that the sutures are in place. Steri-Strips are generally placed on the site after the stitches are removed until they fall off on their own. The earlobe will continue to heal on its own for several months.
When can I re-pierce my ears after an earlobe repair?
In addition to performing the earlobe repair procedure, Dr. Michele Green will have your return to the office for re-piercing the ear in the correct location, generally six weeks after the cosmetic surgery. One of the advantages of having Dr. Green perform your ear piercing is that she ensures the correct placement of the new piercing. Dr. Green will make sure that it is in the desired location and completely symmetric with the opposite ear, also ensuring no further damage is done to the newly repaired earlobes. Earlobes are re-pierced only after the surgical area has completely healed from the earlobe repair procedure.
Once Dr. Green re-pierces your ears, she will advise you to wear small earrings which have posts, similar to the stud earrings that you used to first pierce your ears. You should also refrain from wearing hanging, wires, hoops, or heavy earrings. The new skin which was repaired will be weaker than normal skin for at least three months as the area heals and new collagen is formed.
How to treat sagging earlobes
To treat drooping or sagging earlobes, Dr. Green often recommends Restylane or Juvederm injections in order to rejuvenate them. Using these hyaluronic acid dermal fillers can help lift sagging earlobes and can provide more durability to take on heavy earrings. Hyaluronic acid fillers are a useful revitalization tool for the earlobes, as they use a naturally-occurring substance in the body – hyaluronic acid – to stimulate collagen production and restore volume and plumpness. This in turn is able to rejuvenate the skin of the earlobes, improving elasticity offering greater strength to this area of tissue.
In most cases, these “earlobe rejuvenation” or “lobe lift” treatments only take a few minutes, and there is no downtime or recovery. Often, these earlobe injections are combined with other facial injections to create a non-surgical or “liquid facelift“. This facial rejuvenation can also be combined with chemical peels, fractionated lasers, and other minimally invasive cosmetic procedures.
How much does it cost to fix a torn earlobe?
The price for a torn earlobe repair depends on the extent of the repair involved. A complicated repair is more expensive than a simple earlobe repair. In addition, if both earlobes are involved, the cost for the surgical procedure increases. If you’re curious how much does it cost to fix a split earlobe, the answer will vary based on the severity of the split. However, for most patients, the cost of earlobe repair varies between $1,000 and $3,000 depending on the expertise of the dermatologist performing the surgery, the complexity of the reconstructive surgery, as well as the geographic location. For example, the costs in New York may differ from costs in San Francisco.
Does insurance cover split earlobe repair?
Though a torn earlobe can be a frustrating experience for many patients, the surgery for split earlobe repair is considered not medically necessary, and therefore is not covered by health insurance. However, in the case of keloid scarring, insurance companies may cover the excision of the scar. If you think you may qualify for insurance coverage for your split earlobe repair, it is best to contact your insurance company directly before proceeding with earlobe repair procedures.
What other plastic surgery procedures involve torn earlobe repair?
Facelifts often involve correcting the earlobe as well. Many patients who are having a full facelift, facial plastic surgery, tummy tuck, or blepharoplasty will choose to have earlobe repair surgery performed at the same time while under general anesthesia. Some patients, it should be noted, are unhappy with the shape of their earlobes after a facelift, as the position of the ear can sometimes be affected. After surgery, there may be notching at the base of the earlobe, without the normal curved arch. These patients may need a more complicated otoplasty or other surgical repair in addition to a face or neck lift.
How do you fix scars behind the ears from a facelift?
Plastic surgery is often an excellent method for facial rejuvenation, but to many patients’ dismay, can leave behind some unsightly scars. Whether an individual has a scar from having an ear surgery or other type of reconstructive surgery, such as a facelift, neck lift, rhinoplasty, eyelid surgery, skin cancer removal, or liposuction, Dr. Green can help. Dr. Green offers numerous non-invasive cosmetic solutions for effectively and safely reducing the appearance of surgical scars. With over 25 years of experience providing the best treatments in cosmetic dermatology, Dr. Green uses the most cutting-edge methods and the latest skin resurfacing laser technology. Fraxel, V-Beam, and eMatrix are among Dr. Green’s favorite laser treatments for diminishing the appearance of surgical scars.
The Fraxel Dual laser is an innovative skin resurfacing laser treatment that is often referred to by Dr. Green as the “magic eraser” for its unique ability to target a wide range of skin concerns. The Fraxel laser treatment is able to effectively reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation, acne scars, fine lines and wrinkles, enlarged pores, and surgical scars. The combination of two different wavelengths, 1927 nm and 1550 nm, allows the Fraxel laser to be useful in treating a myriad of issues, including surgical scars on various areas of the body. The 1927 nm wavelength Thulium laser is catered to diminishing pigmentation, skin discoloration, age spots, and sun damage. This occurs because the specific wavelength of energy targets chromophores or colored elements within skin cells to create a local thermal reaction to diminish pigmented spots. The 1550 nm wavelength Erbium laser is able to improve skin texture, fine lines, wrinkles, and scars by focusing the energy in the deeper areas of the skin to stimulate collagen synthesis. There is minimal downtime associated with having a Fraxel procedure, so scheduling a treatment session can be done with ease.
The eMatrix sublative rejuvenation laser is another excellent treatment option for eliminating surgical scars, as well as minimizing acne scars, stretch marks, and other irregularities of skin texture. The eMatrix treatment uses bi-polar radiofrequency (RF) energy to heat the skin deep within the dermis, while preserving the top layers of the skin. This means that there is no risk of hyperpigmentation that usually surrounds traditional ablative resurfacing, as long as it is performed correctly by an experienced dermatologist like Dr. Green. The application of heat stimulates collagen production, resulting in a smoother, clearer skin surface. Additionally, the eMatrix is safe for use on patients of all skin types and skin tones, making it a safe treatment option for all patients with surgical scars.
Sometimes, the surgical scars appear red in color. For these scars, the VBeam laser is considered to be the gold standard treatment. VBeam is a pulsed dye laser (PDL) that works via selective thermolysis, specifically targeting any red pigment in the skin. This makes it an ideal treatment option for not just surgical scars, but also rosacea, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, stretch marks, broken capillaries, and more. The VBeam treatment does not require any downtime whatsoever, and as an added bonus, contains a patented Dynamic Cooling Device, or DCD. The DCD releases a cool burst before delivering the laser beam to the skin, making the treatment very comfortable for the patient – so much so, that no local anesthetic is required. No matter what your surgical scar looks like, Dr. Green has a non-invasive treatment option for you.
How do I treat keloid scars on my earlobes?
Depending on the size of your keloids, it may require surgery to remove the keloid. Keloids are a hereditary form of raised scar tissue that can develop due to injuries to the skin, such as an ear piercing. Typically, patients with darker skin tones are more prone to developing keloids. These keloids typically grow behind the ears and are a result of ear piercing. Smaller keloid scars may be able to be treated with cortisone injections alone to shrink them. Dr. Green also recommends using Kelo-cote topically for these keloid scars.
If you develop keloid scars due to an ear piercing, intralesional cortisone injections into the earlobe may be right for you. Cortisone injections are able to reduce the scar tissue within the ear, helping to flatten the scar and reduce the overall appearance of the keloid. Additionally, if you experience redness or discoloration due to keloids, Dr. Green may recommend the V-Beam® laser. The V-Beam laser is a gentle skin resurfacing laser that works to reduce redness on the surface of the skin, and is an excellent treatment for patients dealing with keloids, rosacea, prominent veins, acne scars, or facial redness. It’s an excellent way treat the redness of this type of scar without the need for downtime.
Gauge earrings and repair of stretched earlobe
Gauge earrings are a popular trend in which the skin of the earlobe is stretched around a small ring, called a gauge. When you gauge the ears, the earlobe skin is weakened, which can lead to damage of the ears. Though smaller gauges can be removed and the earlobe will be restored to its previous size, larger gauges often lead to permanently stretched earlobes, with holes that are too large to support traditional earrings. Earlobe stretching can also occur through consistent use of heavy earrings, as well as continually sleeping with earrings in well after the piercing is fully established.
In order to reduce the appearance of gauged or stretched earlobes, a much more complicated repair is required that includes earlobe reduction surgery. This earlobe reduction surgery will involve an incision in the crease between the earlobe and cheek, removal of the overstretched tissue of the earlobe, and fine sutures to reconnect the earlobe. In the case of this more complicated surgery, it is vital that you work with an experienced earlobe repair healthcare professional to achieve your desired results.
Can a torn earlobe heal on its own?
Unfortunately, when it comes to torn earlobes, split earlobes, and stretched earlobes, the earlobe is quite unlikely to heal on its own. In some cases, patients may opt to live with a minor tear in the earlobe, provided it isn’t impacting their daily life. However, for many, a torn earlobe can be a very frustrating or uncomfortable experience. Torn earlobe repair is the best solution to promote healing within the skin of the earlobe, and to prevent unwanted scarring or damage to the earlobe.
How long does a torn earlobe take to heal?
Following the earlobe repair treatment, it can take several weeks for the wound to heal properly. Two weeks after the treatment, patients will return to Dr. Green’s office to have the stitches removed. Only once the wound has fully healed, generally six weeks after the earlobe repair procedure, will Dr. Green invite patients back to have their ear re-pierced. It is important to wait until the earlobe is fully healed before re-piercing the ear in order to avoid further injury to the lobe.
How to repair a torn earlobe at home
If you are dealing with a torn earlobe, you should not attempt to repair the earlobe tear at home. For patients who experience a tear in the earlobe due to traumatic incident, injury, or sudden pulling or a rip, it’s best not to apply ice or a cold compress directly to the skin of the wound, as this can restrict circulation and may lead to a delay in the healing process. Instead, it’s better to place gauze over the wound, apply a cool compress, and seek treatment from a healthcare professional in a medical setting. Dr. Green has had success repairing a variety of torn earlobes ,and the safety and satisfaction of her patients is her top priority.
Can you glue a split earlobe?
It is not recommended under any circumstance that a patient glue a split earlobe in an attempt to repair it. The safety and efficacy of any treatment should always be considered, and gluing a split earlobe is not necessarily safe nor effective. Applying glue of any kind to a split earlobe puts patients at high risk of developing an infection and may prevent proper healing. If you are seeking a solution to a torn or split earlobe, it’s best to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green in NYC. Dr. Green is an expert who will be able to carefully and artfully repair your torn earlobe. Working with Dr. Green to restore your earlobes guarantees that you are able to avoid risking infection or other unwanted side effects.
How to fix a torn or split earlobe without surgery
Unfortunately, if your earlobe has split, the tear will need to be repaired with a surgical procedure. The surgery is quick, comfortable, does not require significant downtime, and will not interfere with your normal activities. Although reconstructive surgery may sound somewhat intimidating, it is actually the safest and most effective way to fix a split earlobe. Entrusting an experienced and skilled board-certified plastic surgeon or board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green in NYC, will guarantee you have ideal cosmetic results while avoiding unwanted side effects such as scarring or infection. If your earlobes are not split but have become stretched due to collagen loss, Dr. Green can restore the appearance and strength of your earlobe tissue through the use of dermal filler injections. Hyaluronic acid dermal filler products, such as Restylane and Juvederm, are commonly used to rejuvenate the appearance of a sagging earlobe. Consulting with Dr. Green is the best way to determine which kind of earlobe restoration procedure would be best-suited to you.
Can a ripped earring hole be fixed?
Yes! A ripped earring hole can be an annoyance and may be something that is keeping you from feeling and looking like the best version of yourself. Luckily, a quick in-office surgical procedure can be done to fix the ripped earring hole and restore your self-confidence. Dr. Green in NYC is a board-certified dermatologist with extensive experience repairing torn earlobes, whether the split was caused by a traumatic incident or as a result of wearing heavy earrings or gauges. Usually, patients who undergo earlobe repair surgery have a quick recovery time and don’t need to take any time away from other responsibilities to accommodate downtime. Most patients resume their usual daily activities immediately after completion of the ear lobe repair procedure. Dr. Green will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions following your ear lobe repair to ensure that you get the best cosmetic results from treatment.
How to fix a torn earlobe without surgery in NYC
If a heavy earring or a gauge has caused your earlobe to split, a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon can help you fix it. In New York City, Dr. Michele Green is an authority in the field of cosmetic dermatology. Dr. Green is consistently voted as one of the city’s best physicians by Super Doctors, New York Magazine, The New York Times, and Castle Connolly. She is well known for her precision and practiced hand in many cosmetic dermatological procedures, including ear lobe repair, with over 25 years of experience treating some of the most discerning men and women from around the world. During your consultation with Dr. Green in her private dermatology office in NYC, you will have the opportunity to highlight your specific cosmetic concerns and develop a treatment plan and timeline that work best for you and your goals. If a split earlobe is of concern to you, Dr. Green can fix it.
Who performs the torn earlobe repair?
In her private dermatology office located in the Upper East Side neighborhood of Manhattan, Dr. Michele Green regularly performs torn earlobe repair procedures. It is important to select a skilled and experienced board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon to execute your torn earlobe repair. This will ensure that your earlobe repair surgery is done safely and that your cosmetic results are optimal. Dr. Green has over two decades of experience repairing torn earlobes, and the combination of her artistic background, careful surgical repair, and patient adherence to proper post-procedure skin care produces superlative results and a quick recovery.
How to repair split earlobes without surgery
When an earlobe split occurs, as a result of general wear and tear from heavy earrings, gauges, or an acute traumatic incident, such as pulling on an earring, the best way to repair the rip is via a simple surgical procedure. The procedure is relatively quick to perform – generally only taking about 30 minutes – and it does not require patients to go under anesthesia, rather Dr. Green is apply a topical numbing cream at the treatment area. Split earlobe surgery is an outpatient procedure, meaning that patients can return home immediately after the treatment. With Dr. Green’s practiced hand, earlobe repair sutures are clean, and the whole process – though technically a surgical procedure – is simple to perform. When determining your treatment options, it is best to consult with an expert, board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green.
How do I get started today with repairing my torn earlobe?
If you’re bothered by a partially split earlobe, a complete earlobe tear, or keloid scarring, Dr. Michele Green is here to help. Whether the look of your earlobe has been affected by an injury, wearing gauges, or heavy earrings, Dr. Green can repair your earlobe in a quick and simple outpatient procedure that allows you to resume your normal activities the very same day. Dr. Green is an internationally renowned cosmetic dermatologist with over 25 years of experience providing the best in non-invasive treatments, including earlobe repair. Her expertise and artful skills are supported by exceptional patient reviews and outstanding patient satisfaction. She is consistently voted as one of the best physicians in New York City by Castle Connolly, The New York Times, Super Doctors, and New York Magazine. The safety and satisfaction of her patients is always Dr. Green’s top priority, and she will take the time to develop a treatment plan for you that centers your specific concerns and aesthetic goals. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Green and learn more about earlobe repair, please call our NYC office at 212-535-3088 or contact us online.