I have big earlobes. Is there any way I can make them smaller without surgeries?

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

Colin Pero, MD, FACS · Answer

Unfortunately, the only solution is likely surgical.  That said, the procedure can usually be done in the office under local anesthesia with little to no down time.  If you are anxious about the procedure itself, often mild sedatives and/or IV sedation is also available in the office or the operating room.

Bram Kaufman, MD · Answer

Thanks for the question. Unfortunately, there is no non-operative solution to your problem. Thankfully, the results of ear lobe surgery are quite good and the procedure is an office procedure and well tolerated without much discomfort. Good luck and thanksBRK

George Bitar, MD · Answer

True earlobe reduction can only be achieved with a surgical procedure, though a minor one performed in office under local anesthesia.  There are some older patients whose earlobes appear long because the soft tissue has atrophied giving a deflated appearance to the earlobes.  This can be addressed by filler, revolumizing the empty skin envelope and giving the appearance of a fuller, shorter earlobe.

Franziska Huettner, MD, PhD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. 
There is not method I am aware of besides surgery to decrease the size of earlobes. 
But earlobe reduction surgery can be performed easily in the office under local anesthesia. 
Best wishes,
Franziska Huettner

Michael I. Echavez, MD · Answer

In my opinion, there is not a method other than surgery to reduce large earlobes.  This is normally a fairly simple procedure that can be done in the office.

Susan Buenaventura, MD, FACS · Answer

It does require surgery but is possible to do an earlobe reduction by removing excess earlobe tissue and placing sutures.  It can be done under local anesthesia and ears can be pierced at a later date if needed.  As ears, nose and eyes are the focal points of the face, aesthetic concerns are important for self image.  Earlobe reduction surgery is fairly straightforward.

Richard J. Wassermann, MD, MPH, FACS · Answer

Unfortunately, there is no way to reduce the overall size of your earlobes without surgery. The best thing to do is to make an appointment with you local Board Certified Plastic Surgeon so that you can discuss options and what their cost may be. Costs for this type of procedure can vary as it can be based on how much of a reduction you are looking to achieve. Good Luck!

Mitchell Brown, MD · Answer

It is common for earlobes to enlarge both with age and with the regular use of earrings. Unfortunately there is no way to reduce earlobes without surgery. The procedure is usually pretty straightforward involving well hidden scars. This is often performed in association with some form of lower face lift but may be done as a stand alone procedure

Christine Stanko, MD · Answer

Hello haidie11,
Thank you for your questions. Unfortunately there is no way to reduce the size of your earlobes without a surgical procedure. I suggest you schedule a consultation with a physician in your area. 
Best of Luck!