How quickly can I get my earlobe reduction revision? 3 days post-op. (photos)

Question

I got an earlobe reduction on Friday & Iam not happy my results one earlobe sticks out more than it did prior to surgery.. I went straight back in to see him as soon as I had a good look at my earlobes and he sort of laughed at me and told me that there was fluid in there from the local? I could clearly see they were completely uneven because one earlobe looked great whilst the other looked awful! I want to get this ear redone ASAP, I feel embarrassed to ask my surgeon because he laughed at me!

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Earlobe repair is a common procedure in our plastic surgery office. I employ a technique that involves removing the excess scar tissue and reapproximating the tissue planes in multiple layers to recontour the earlobe after gauges, torn earlobes, or stretched out earlobes. Sometimes, the same procedure is used to restore contour to a pixie ear after facelift surgery or facial surgery. Gauge correction is a popular treatment. Insurance typically does not cover the procedure in California, but it all depends on your insurance policy. Costs are typically between six hundred dollars and one thousand dollars depending on the complexity of the repair. Pixie ear repair involves correction of the facelift flap and is a more complex procedure that requires anesthesia. Aftercare for earlobe repair involves proper wound care, Plato’s Scar Serum at least twice daily, with repiercing of the earlobe if requested, in 6 weeks. It is best to have a plastic surgeon perform the procedure and help with scars in the post-procedure period. Plato’s Scar Serum, wound care, and Neosporin are used.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 surgeon

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 surgeon

Michael I. Echavez, MD · Answer

There would be some expected swelling present 3 days after an earlobe reduction surgery and this swelling will affect the appearance of your ears.  I would really recommend waiting at least 2-4 weeks before deciding if you need a revision or not.  There is a very good chance your ears will look the same as the healing progresses.

Nick Masri, MD, FACS · Answer

First of all, congratulations on your otoplasty!
While I don’t agree with how your doctor just laughed off your question, you do have to wait for a while before you decide to have earlobe surgery revision. It’s just been three days, so whatever you’re seeing is not yet the final results. Your ears are still swelling, and this will subside in three to six months. If afterr six months you’re still not happy with your ears, that’s when you should consider getting a revision.
Always look for a reputable and board-certified surgeon who treats you well and answers all your concerns in a respectful manner.
Best of luck!

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

It is much too early to evaluate the outcome of procedure performed. This is best done several months from now.   From what I can see, based on the photographs, your surgeon has done a nice job for you; I would not be surprised if you are much happier with the outcome of the procedure performed several months from now. Keep in mind, that like any anatomic part, absolute symmetry will not be achieved. Best wishes for an outcome that you will be pleased with long-term.

Jaron McMullin, MD · Answer

I often tell patients that the worst swelling/distortion is seen during the first 2-3 days, then 80% is gone by 2-3 weeks and 90% by 2-3 months. I imagine you have a follow up appointment in a week or two. I would bring up your concern and hopefully you can discuss/see that the lobe is more prominent and come up with a personalized plan. Sometimes surgeons' initial reaction (his laughing) can been (likely accurately) seen as insensitive, but I wouldn't read too much into it -- it's normal to bring it up in the future so try not to be embarrassed.

Cory Torgerson, MD, PhD, FRCSC - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi there, Thank you for your question. It is very common for the ears to be swollen immediately after surgery. 3 days post-op is certainty not a time for any assessment of the results as the ear is still quite impacted by the effects of surgery. Wait about 3 - 6 months before considering a revision. Clear communication with your plastic surgeon is your greatest tool in acquiring the cosmetic goals you're looking to achieve. Hope this helps!

M. Dean Vistnes, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

It has only been 3 days, there is swelling masking your results. You must be patient with your recovery and give your body time to heal. Even though this is something minor, the body reacts the same way it would to any other trauma or injury. There will be swelling distorting the appearance of the earlobes and scar tissue will form for the first 6-8 weeks. Wait at least 6 months before considering any kind of revision or you could end up over correcting and making things worse. Good luck.Dean Vistnes, MD.Vistnes Plastic SurgerySan Francisco Bay Area#realself #drdeanvistnes #earlobereduction

How quickly can I get my earlobe reduction revision? 3 days post-op. (photos)

Answers (7)

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