EAR LOBE REPAIR

It is not uncommon for an earlobe piercing to stretch or to tear.  These problems can be fixed in the office at a reasonable cost.

REPAIR OPTIONS

1.) primary closure

The torn edges of the ear lobe are sutured together as a straight line.  This technique usually does not include a new earring hole.  After several weeks of healing, the ear lobe can be pierced again.  The risk of this technique is that there might be a notch at the bottom of the lobe.

2.) Z-plasty closure

A similar repair, but to avoid a straight scar and minimize the risk of notching, a more complex closure is used.  The risk is that the scar may also be more complex.

3.) rotation flap

This repair creates a small flap of skin that is rolled to create a new earring hole at the apex of the tear.  This is a relatively strong repair (in other words, it reduces the risk of the ear lobe tearing again) and studs can usually be worn immediately.  This technique is more costly due to its complexity, but does not require the cost of repiercing.

PROCEDURE

For each of these repair options, the earlobe is numbed with a local anesthetic.  There is little bleeding and no pain associated with any of these repairs.  Each procedure requires about 30 minutes per ear.

RECOVERY

There is usually minimal discomfort or bleeding after the surgery.  Wound care involves gentle cleaning of the site, if any discharge, and application of any antibiotic ointment once a day until the sutures are removed.  The doctor will arrange to remove the sutures in one to two weeks.  One can immediately resume normal activities and bathing.  The type and timing of wearing earrings needs to be discussed with your doctor.

RISKS

infection (not common with recommended wound care)

keloid formation - an large firm raised lump appears due to the body creating excessive scar tissue.  This is more common in dark skinned people.  Please inform your doctor if you have ever had any unusual scar formation, since there are steps that can be taken to minimize this complication.  See delayed treatments of this problem.

EAR LOBE PIERCING

Ear lobe piercing is available in the office for the cost of $50 for both ears.  Bring a set of studs.