My earlobe got split and I want to ask if there is a possibility for it to close up

Question

I got a split ear lobe yesterday and I don't want undergo surgery... Can it heal itself?

Hooman Khorasani, MD · Answer

Unfortunately, a torn earlobe does not repair itself. If it does heal on its own, it will not be symmetric or even, and will not resemble your natural earlobe shape prior to the injury. If you do allow your earlobe to heal on its own, you will still require cosmetic surgery to repair the unsightly defect to restore your ear to its original state.
The procedure is conducted under local anesthesia. During the initial consultation, the tear is evaluated and detailed pre-op instructions are reviewed with the patient. On the day of the procedure, your ear is numbed with topical and then injectable lidocaine, ensuring a painless experience during the remainder of the visit. Once the scar tissue is removed, your earlobe is approximated and sewn back together. Dr. Khorasani utilizes several suturing techniques in order to reduce the formation of irregularities on the ear lobe rim. The entire procedure takes approximately 15 minutes per earlobe.

Jeffrey J. Roth, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question and photo. Typically these lacerations don't just fix themselves. Usually some intervention is needed for a proper, will aligned earlobe and scar. We typically do this procedure in our office under local anesthesia. We usually close the incision in layers to take the tension off of the incision. This usually leads to a nicer incision line. Please call the office for more details and the current costs. Costs will typically depend on the complexity, and how much time, the procedure will take. Costs will vary from city to city. We usually have our patients wait 3 months before re-piercing the earlobe, and re-pierce it 3 mm from the repair. Best to see a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon or Otolaryngologist (ENT). They will help you make a plan to achieve your goals.

Jeffrey J. Roth, M.D., F.A.C.S.

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Las Vegas Plastic Surgery

Jeffrey J. Roth, M.D., F.A.C.S.

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Las Vegas Plastic Surgery

Stanley Okoro, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. It is difficult to answer completely without seeing photos or examining you myself. It is unlikely your ear lobe will heal itself without surgical intervention. 3 months from the split, you may want to consult a plastic surgeon. Good luck

Irena Karanetz, MD · Answer

Hi,
Thank you for the question.
It is difficult to answer your question without seeing the photo, but typically torn/split earlobe can be easily repaired at the office under local anesthesia. The procedure usually takes less than 1 hour and there is minimal discomfort afterwards.
I suggest that you seek an in person consultation with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon to further discuss your options, specific techniques, concerns and expectations. 
I hope this helps.Best regards, Dr. Karanetz
Dr. Irena KaranetzBreast Fellowship-TrainedBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon

Julia Spears, MD · Answer

Hello. Unfortunately this will not heal if left alone. You can have your earlobes repaired. Most surgeons do this procedure in the office. The cost is approximately $500 to $100 per ear. This procedure can fix a split lobe or stretched and enlarged piercing holes. After you are fully healed from the procedure you can have your earlobes re-pierced. 
Best of luck! 
Dr. Julia Spears MD

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

Phillip Chang, MD · Answer

Hi Utulu anita

Torn earlobe repair is most commonly performed in the office under local anesthesia.  The procedure will take about 15 to 20 minutes per ear (if there are two). The tear most commonly appears as as cleft in the earlobe. For more information about this procedure, please visit our website.

Jacob Sedgh, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. The tear in your earlobe will not repair itself naturally. It will need to be repaired surgically, which is a very easy procedure that can be done in the office in under an hour. Please see an experienced practitioner! We wish you the best!

Michael I. Echavez, MD · Answer

A split earlobe will need to be repaired surgically.  This is a fairly common and minor procedure that can be done in the office.

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Unfortunately, split earlobes do not normally close. For this reason, surgery is recommended. The procedure is fairly straightforward for surgeons experienced in cosmetic ear surgery.

My earlobe got split and I want to ask if there is a possibility for it to close up

Answers (14)

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