Can my ripped/tear ear lobe be fixed? (photos)

Question

My ear lobe has been ripped for years now, mainly from wearing earrings, or getting them caught in my hair, etc. It is almost ripped completely to the end (see pics included). Is it possible to fix this and if so, how ?

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

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

Peter Lee, MD, FACS · Answer

In answer to your question, torn ear lobes are a relatively common occurrence, all the more so in recent years as larger earrings have come back into vogue. The good news is that this repair can usually be performed under local anesthesia, without need of an operating room.  The edges of the split earlobe are freshened, and then the two segments are reapproximated with sutures to recreate the natural curved contour of the ear lobe.  The resultant scar is usually quite inconspicuous after it is given adequate time to heal.  The ear lobe can usually be repierced  six to eight weeks after it has been repaired.

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question about ear lobe surgery.Yes, ear lobe repair can be performed in the office under local anesthetic...aka "numbing medicine." The procedure usually takes about 10 minutes per side.

To be sure, see two or more experienced,
board-certified Plastic Surgeons in your area for a complete evaluation to make
sure you are a good candidate and that it is safe for you to have ear lobe repair.

I hope this helps.

Jeffrey D. Wagner, MD · Answer

This is a simple fix in the office. The rip is cut out and repaired precisely.  It will probably require about 30 minutes of minor surgery under local anesthesia.

Joshua Cooper, MD, FACS · Answer

A split ear lobe piercing may be repaired by a plastic surgeon using a local anesthetic. The procedure is quick, almost painless, and after 6 weeks you may have your earlobe re-pierced. Definitely meet with a board certified plastic surgeon to have this repaired. Thanks for sharing!

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and for sharing your photograph.  Torn earlobes can be repaired and involves a local anesthesia procedure in the office.  The normal appearing skin on either side of the tear is removed and sewn together with stitches.  The stitches are removed at approximately a week's time and the lobe can be re-pierced 6 weeks after repair.  Hope this helps.

Samuel Lin, MD, FACS · Answer

Agreed, it is a procedure that may be performed in the office with numbing medication and the procedure lasts about 20-30 minutes usually.

Jessica Lattman, MD · Answer

Yes!  This is a very simple procedure that is done in the office.  Local anesthetic is applied to the ear lobe and the torn area is repaired.  You will have stitches in the ear lobe for one week.  Then the ear can be re-pierced 6 weeks later.