Is there any way to fix a thin part of my earlobe? I have both of my earlobes stretched to 7/16 of an inch. (photos)

Question

i have both of my earlobes stretched to 7/16 of an inch. my left one is even and pretty normal but my right one is getting thin on the bottom. my goal was to go to half an inch or maybe a little more but i’m scared that my ear is gonna end up splitting. the messed up gauge is the only piercing i have done by a gun. everything else, including the left gauge, was done by me with hollow piercing needles and sterilized jewelry

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

Michael I. Echavez, MD · Answer

It would really not be possible to do surgery to make the thin part of your gauged earlobe thicker and still have you wear gauges, as it would put too much stress on the tissue and cause it to tear again.  It would be possible to close the holes, but you would not be able to re-gauge them again.

Matthew C. Camp, MD · Answer

Repairing the earlobe is fairly straightforward, and can be done in office under local. I would encourage you to reconsider dilating the earlobes, as it will test the tissues and can result in additional surgery being required to restore the natural shape of you ear. 
Matthew C. Camp M.D.

Thomas J. Lee, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  To answer your question directly, it would be difficult to create bulk to the thinned out portion of your earlobe and still allow you to wear gauge type jewelry.  As a plastic surgeon I can perform surgery to create a more natural appearing earlobe, however you would be left with small scars on it.  Redoing gauge jewelry is not recommended since your reconstructed earlobe will not be as strong as your original one.

Rachel A. Ruotolo, MD, FACS · Answer

Yes. Your earlobes can be repaired in the office under a local anesthetic.  Your lobes may end up being smaller than they were originally, but you should be able to obtain a restored nature shape to your lobes. I do not recommend placing gauges again, following repair, however.  Seek consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon who has experience with ear reconstructive surgery. Good luck!

Is there any way to fix a thin part of my earlobe? I have both of my earlobes stretched to 7/16 of an inch. (photos)

Answers (5)

More Earlobe Repair Questions

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS

Answers (5)

More Earlobe Repair Questions

I had my gauged ears closed up, should I put Vaseline on the sutures? (Photo)

Can a stretched ear lobe be fixed by just cutting off part of the earlobe?

I have a keloid in my left ear that is 5 years old and was pierced incorrectly. is it possible to get another piercing? (Photos)

I had ear lobe surgery a week ago and have a pointy like appearance, advice? (photo)

My ear split from earrings, how much does it cost to get fixed?

Can my earlobe be repierced in same area after repair? (Photo)

WE SEND PRETTY EMAILS

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS