Heavy earrings, trauma, or ear gauging can result in torn or elongated earlobes. This can be unattractive or make it impossible to wear earrings. Many patients do not realize that this can be quickly and easily fixed. In Cleveland, Ohio, Dr. Matt Goldschmidt is an expert in cosmetic ear surgery and can correct a torn earlobe in a matter of minutes. Gauged ear surgery is also performed to remove the gauges and tighten the earlobes that resulted from years of wearing plugs. The procedure can be done under local anesthesia (novocaine) or with general anesthesia.
Procedure
Dr. Goldschmidt will listen to your concerns and develop a treatment plan to address your cosmetic goals. The earlobes can be reshaped, made smaller, and of course, repaired if torn. The incisions usually heal well and Dr. Goldschmidt will re-pierce your earlobe if you wish either at the same time as the repair or at a later date.
Recovery
Most patients have very few problems post-operatively. There may be slight discomfort that is easily controlled with pain medication and cold compresses. The scars are inconspicuous, and scar treatments may help fade the scars.
Earlobe repair can also be done at the same time as other procedures, such as a facelift, facial fillers (i.e. JUVÉDERM® or Restylane®), or eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty).
Does earlobe surgery hurt?
Earlobe surgery is performed under local or general anesthesia to ensure a comfortable treatment. Any post-operative discomfort can be remedied with TYLENOL® or cold compresses. Most pain fades in one to two days.
How much is earlobe surgery?
The cost of your earlobe surgery will vary depending on the specifications of your procedure. This cost will factor in the geographical location, anesthesia, facility fees, surgical fees, and post-surgical dressings.
Does insurance cover earlobe surgery?
Earlobe repair is traditionally considered to be an elective procedure, and therefore, is not covered by insurance.
Can earrings easily rip your earlobe?
Large or heavy earrings, especially earrings with hoops or rings, can easily catch on something and tear your earlobe. Patients should practice extra caution when wearing earrings like this (and take them out if you are holding a child who might pull on them). Additionally, wearing heavy earrings can cause your piercings to stretch and become elongated. Stretched piercings or torn earlobes can be repaired easily.
How long does it take for an ear piercing to close?
Ear piercings may eventually close on their own depending on the length of time that the piercing has been present. Initially, the patient’s piercings could heal in a matter of hours; however, the longer you have had a piercing, the longer it will take to heal. For patients who have had piercings or plugs for several years, the piercings will never close on their own.
For more information about Ear Lobe Repair or to schedule your Ear Lobe Repair consultation with Dr. Matt Goldschmidt, please call (216) 264-8100.