How long does it usually take for the ear lobes to be completely healed entirely, after having surgery to close them?

Question

I have gauge holes, they have shrunk a bit, but not much. The guages have been out for 7 months. They were close to 2 1/2" (I think, they were pretty big, I could stick my finger through them.) I am asking because I want to become a Marine, and the ear holes need to be completely healed before I can go to MEPS.

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

Sutures would need to be in for about one week after repairing the earlobes and then they will continue to heal for several months afterwards.  I would recommend waiting about 6-8 weeks after the procedure before going to MEPS.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question.  In general incisions are fully healed at 6 weeks after repair, but your scars will continue to fade, soften, and mature for up to a year after surgery.  Hope this helps.

Joshua Cooper, MD, FACS · Answer

At the time of surgical closure of stretched or gauged earlobes I close the incisions with dissolving sutures that usually are gone by one week.  You can expect some swelling and sometimes bruising after the procedure.By one week the earlobes are completely healed, and over the course of several months, up to one year, the scars will continue to mature and fade quite a bit. Definitely meet with a board certified plastic surgeon (ASPS) to find out more.

M. Dean Vistnes, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Seek a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon as pricing varies from surgeon to surgeon. Price can range from $400-$800. You will be able to re-pierce your ears 2 months after you have the earlobe repair done. Good luck, Dean Vistnes. 
Vistnes Plastic Surgery
San Francisco Bay Area
#realself #drdeanvistnes #earloberepair

Joseph M. Pober, MD, FACS - Account Suspended · Answer

Your 2 1/2 inch gauge earlobe holes have not contracted down much per your report. Photos would help determine the surgery you need to have for a natural looking reconstruction. 
However, independent of the extent of surgery, "complete" healing time (or maximal wound strength time) is about the same
  In most cases, sutures are removed in 5-7 days and the earlobe looks relatively normal by that time.  
However, the strength of the wound closure increases to about 80% of normal by six weeks, and even after complete maturation at about a year, the wound strength regains minimal further strength, staying at about 80% of its normal strength. 
So after you have your surgery to close the earlobe holes , go for your MEPS after six weeks, if the healing progresses within usual limits. Therefore, best to go to an  experienced board certified plastic surgeon to get on the right track.

How long does it usually take for the ear lobes to be completely healed entirely, after having surgery to close them?

Answers (6)

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