Ear Surgery

Advantages of Ear Surgery

Ear and earlobe lobe surgery is a common procedure and is mainly performed under local anaesthesia. These procedures often help those who are frustrated with the shape (bat ears), large earlobes, or holes created for earrings that have torn. It also can repair the large holes in earlobes that are common for both men and women. Cutting a small notch on the torn lobe and then meticulously stitching the lobe back together is generally how this procedure is performed. Those patients wanting to re-pierce the lobe may do so after about 6 months.

The best candidates for ear and earlobe surgery are men and women of all ages who meet one or more of the criteria listed below:

1. Well researched
2. Sensible expectations
3. Feel a change in size and or shape will improve their appearance

The best candidates for earlobe repair surgery are men and women of all ages who meet one or more of the criteria listed below:

1. Split or torn earlobe
2. Stretched earlobe
3. History of earlobe trauma

During your consultation, we will be able to determine if earlobe repair is the best option available for you. Prior to surgery, it is essential for patients to possess good overall physical health and realistic expectations

Ear Surgery Procedure

Process of Ear Lobe Repair

While the simple and effective procedure of an ear lobe repair can be described as cutting a small notch on the ear lobe to then stitch it back together, there is some information pertaining to this surgery that you may want to be aware of.

• Only local anesthesia is required.
• Procedure typically only takes one hour.
• Minimal scar formation.
• Minimal discomfort after earlobe repair, which can be treated with regular Paracetamol.
• Patients can return back to work immediately following the procedure.
• Stitches are removed or dissolved on their own depending on what is used.

Furthermore, the procedure will start with local anesthesia, and in order to rebuild the earlobe, the healed and scarred elements have to be removed, if this applies to the type of ear lobe repair procedure you are receiving. The repair is then performed in a zigzag or straight line and fine threads are used to support the repair and minimise possible scarring.

Potential Risks or Complications With an Ear Lobe Repair

This procedure is extremely simple, but just like all types of cosmetic surgery; it does have potential complications and side effects, although they too are minimal. You could experience excessive scar formation, notching, infection, or recurrence, which is why it is so crucial to seek a trained professional to complete the ear lobe repair.

Ear Surgery Aftercare

Once your treatment is complete you will be transferred to the recovery room where you will rest and eat and drink. Usually, after 10-15 minutes, you will be ready to go home. 30-45 minutes if you have sedation.

On Day 1 and Day 7 we will expect you to return for a wound check. Some sutures will be removed after 7 days and your wound checked. Your surgeon will see you after six weeks for a follow-up assessment and as often as required until you are fully recovered. It is vital that you attend all necessary postoperative appointments.

Following surgery, it is advisable to keep your head elevated whilst sleeping for at least 5 days to reduce swelling. Scars can get wet within 48 hours but do not rub the wounds. Minimal bruising disappears in a couple of weeks but residual swelling may last for months. Your appearance is generally presentable in a week for earlobe surgery and 2 – 4 weeks for bat ear correction however healing continues for up to a year.