Earlobes sewn to face after facelift/neck surgery. Surgeon states “nothing can be done”. Seeking other opinions. (photo)

One of the most telling signs (or stigmata) after a facelift are elongated earlobes, often called pixie or satyr ears. Unfortunately, this happens all too frequently because most surgeons do not realize or know about recently advanced techniques to avoid this stigmata. The condition can be corrected by a limited procedure, using local anesthesia, but may entail a small imperceptible scar below and posterior to the ear lobe; however, there are other less invasive techniques to bring back the "J-curve" of the earlobe but an in-office examination would need to be performed.  Additionally, in some circumstances, a modified revision mini-lift can be performed that will correct the issue and completely hide the scar, but again an in-office examination is needed to assess the laxity of your skin and underlying tissues.The attached link provides more information.I hope this helps.

Elongated ears also know as "pixie ears" after facelift are due excessive tension on skin and improper suturing of the ear lobe. It can be easily corrected with local anesthesia without the need for general anesthesia. 

Thank you for your question. I understand it’s 14 weeks since your last surgery where you underwent a facelift and a platysmaplasty by a 20-year experienced Board-certified plastic surgeon. You describe your earlobes as now being attached and you’re also concerned about some pulling, pain and numbness involving your ears. I also understand that you’ve had a disagreement with your surgeon over the results of your surgery, and now you’re seeking other opinions.Just a little about my background: I’m a Board-certified cosmetic surgeon, certified by the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, and a Fellowship-trained oculofacial plastic surgeon. I’ve been practicing in Manhattan and Long Island for over 20 years. Surgery of the eyelids, facelifting, and necklifting surgery makes up a big portion of my practice, so I can certainly give you some guidance on this issue.The condition you describe is called a pixie ear deformity, where the previously detached earlobe becomes attached and pulled downwards after a facelift and/or necklift. Sometimes when this happens, there is a lot of tension on the earlobe which causes the skin to pull downwards and the earlobe along with it. This can be interpreted as skin shortage. Pixie ears can be caused by a number of things, but since I don’t know exactly what occurred during your surgery, you can approach this problem in two ways. If the situation is tolerable, you can try to wait about 3-6 months, until the maximum pull has dissipated. After which, if there is enough skin, we will elevate the skin to restore the connection in a way that does not cause any pulling or dragging down, so the earlobes can be reset. Another option, if there isn’t enough skin, is to just detach the earlobe, roll it under to create a detached earlobe look, then close the area underneath, so that the earlobe is nice and defined.To answer your question, yes, this problem can certainly be addressed, it’s just a matter of choosing the right option for you. I suggest giving your original surgeon a second chance and trying to talk to them again, as it would be a shame to let your relationship sour over an issue that can be easily managed. Your original surgeon is also already familiar with your situation, your skin, and if they’re willing to address this issue, it would be better for you to go to them rather than give up after 14 weeks. Admittedly, not all surgeons have the best interpersonal skills. However, if there is still too much friction or animosity, and if your surgeon is still unwilling to acknowledge the issue at hand, then I would recommend meeting with other doctors. I hope that was helpful and I wish you the best of luck!This personalized video answer to your question is posted on RealSelf and on YouTube. To provide you with a personal and expert response, we use the image(s) you submitted on RealSelf in the video, but with respect to your privacy, we only show the body feature in question so you are not personally identifiable. If you prefer not to have your video question visible on YouTube, please contact us.