Will 3/4 inch ear gauge holes heal on their own?

Question

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Earlobe surgery is composed of several techniques that can either repair torn earlobes (split earlobes) or correct overly redundant earlobe tissue from piercings or genetics or stretching. Our HIDEF earlobe repair includes a recontouring of the earlobe contour using multilayered sutures to reapproximate the curvature of the earlobe; while simultaneously restoring contour to the ear. In patients with pixie ears after facelift surgery, an alternate technique is used to reduce the dependance of the earlobe on the facelift flap. Facelift surgery can reshape the earlobe and this requires restoration. Sutures are usually taken out within 10 days and the wound is repierced in 4-6 weeks thereafter. Keloid scars must be addressed in patients with known history for scarring.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Elliot M. Heller, MD · Answer

Earlobe repair is a very common procedure. Frequently, we have patients who will have the procedure done the same day as the consultation. Typically, the cost is between $450-850 per earlobe, depending on the severity and the length of the procedure.You may be able to find a doctor who will do this under insurance but i am not aware of any.The length of time the ears have been gauged should have no effect on the procedure. As long as the tissue is no longer irritated or inflamed, there is no reason not to give it a try. Gauged ears are sometimes more difficult than some other earlobe repairs since the tissue is so over stretched, but we are still able to create a natural looking earlobe. You can get your ear re pierced about 6 weeks after and should be included in the pricing. Shop around in your area and see if you can find a plastic surgeon in your budget

Sachin Chitte, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Unfortunately, gauge holes in the earlobe don't heal on their own.  With time, they may decrease a small amount in size, but don't close.  Closure of these holes can be done quite well under local anesthetic in a 20 minute procedure.  I would suggest discussing the procedure with a board certified plastic surgeon near you.Best of luck!Regards,

Joshua Cooper, MD, FACS · Answer

Your stretched earlobe holes will shrink considerably over several weeks.However, they will not close completely.Definitely meet with a board certified plastic surgeon who has experience closing stretched earlobes.The procedure is performed under a local anesthetic and results are excellent.

Otto Joseph Placik, MD · Answer

3/4 inch gauge holes are skin  that have been stretched over a period of time. The skin will shrink in some but usually the earlobe skin will be left with some drooping. This extra akin usually has to be excised and sutured. Sometimes it does necessitate a flap closure. It is best to meet with a board credentialed plastic surgeon and discuss the options that will work best for you. Good luck .

Michael I. Echavez, MD · Answer

If you have had the gauged ear holes for some time, they would not close on their own.  They can be surgically closed however.

Parker A. Velargo, MD, FACS · Answer

Highly unlikely. Ear gauge holes require a skilled closure and often require small ear lobe flaps to make your ear look normal again. Consult with a facial plastic surgeon or plastic surgeon to review your options. Good Luck!

Sunny Park, MD, MPH · Answer

Most likely they will not heal completely on their own.  If you give it some time, they may become smaller. For a complete closure, you will need surgery which can be done in the office setting using local anesthesia.

Kouros Azar, MD · Answer

Hello jmdprime,Thank you so much for your question. In regards to your gauges healing on their own, typically it would not be the best idea being that the skin has been stretched outside the "normal" size of the lobe. If you are considering wearing earrings again, this may cause the earring to pull the lobe downward or even puncture through. I would advise that you find a board certified plastic surgeon for further information regarding this matter. Typically the repair of the lobe can be done under a local anesthetic and healing is about 2-3 weeks which entail sutures and post operative swelling. Caring for the lobes afterwards is rather easy and only requires antibiotic ointment daily. Consult with a physician for further information. I hope this is helpful, good luck.Kindly,Kouros Azar

Chien C. Kat, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.Your ear gauge holes may shrink a little over time but it won't completely heal on their own.To have them repaired is a very straightforward procedure which you can have under a local anaesthetic.