Ear Lobe Repair
From stretched earring holes to accidental tears, damaged earlobes are more common than you might think. Whether it's the result of years of wearing heavy earrings, an accidental tug, or a retired gauged piercing, earlobe repair offers a simple, in-office solution to help restore a natural, balanced appearance.
What is Earlobe Repair?
Earlobe repair is a minor surgical procedure that corrects stretched, torn, or misshapen earlobes. It is performed under local anesthesia in our comfortable office setting and usually takes less than an hour.
During the procedure, your provider carefully removes any damaged tissue and reshapes the lobe using both internal absorbable sutures and fine surface stitches to ensure optimal healing and the best possible appearance.
Common Reasons for Ear Lobe Repair
Patients seek earlobe repair for a variety of reasons, including:
- Torn earlobes from earrings being pulled or snagged
- Stretched piercings from years of wearing heavy earrings
- Split earlobes that can no longer support earrings
- Gauged ears that no longer return to their original shape
- Cosmetic asymmetry or earlobe shape changes with age
What to Expect During the Procedure
Earlobe repair is quick, safe, and performed right in the office at Cascade Eye & Skin Centers. Here’s what you can generally expect:
- Local anesthesia is used to numb the area so you’re comfortable throughout the procedure
- Damaged tissue is removed, and the lobe is reshaped using precise suturing techniques
- Absorbable sutures are placed internally, while external stitches help guide the shape as it heals
- There is minimal downtime, and most patients can return to regular activities within a day
Your provider will guide you through the aftercare steps to ensure a smooth recovery and the best cosmetic outcome.
Can I Re-Pierce My Ears Afterward?
Yes, but we recommend waiting about 6 to 8 weeks after the repair to allow the tissue to fully heal. In most cases, we suggest piercing outside the scar line to avoid weakening the repaired area and ensure a more secure hold for earrings in the future.
A Non-surgical Alternative for Drooping Earrings
If your earlobes haven’t torn but have thinned or stretched with age, dermal fillers can be a great non-surgical option. A small amount of filler can:
- Add volume back to the earlobe
- Provide better support for earrings
- Improve the appearance of drooping or sagging lobes
This treatment is quick, low-maintenance, and can make a noticeable difference in how your earrings sit.
Contact Cascade Eye & Skin Centers to schedule a consultation and learn if earlobe repair or dermal fillers are right for you.
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