My Ear is Detaching After Facelift is This Common?

Question

Following a facelift my ear became detached for about a quarter of an inch at the bottom at day 12. I went back to the surgeon who said to leave it alone and it did right itself but how common is that?

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

One of the ways to create a natural curvature the earlobe is to leave the bottom in sutured to the cheek skin. When this heals over a week or so a normal lobe forms.

Ryan Neinstein, MD, FRCSC · Answer

In a recent study 65% of patients had some ear related issue after facelift surgery but almost all resolve in time, so its very common

Nima Shemirani, MD · Answer

Dear Blueashworth,

	
		I agree with the other surgeons and this will heal well
	
		If there are any issues, it is very easy to correct in the office
	
		There is nothing that should be done now other than local care for the wound


	Best,

	Nima Shemirani

Ronald Schuster, MD · Answer

No it's not common but it will heal fine on its own. Not to worry. If left alone it might take a week or two for it to heal.

Evan Ransom, MD, FACS · Answer

This is fairly common and generally not a problem.  Many surgeons, including myself, will not suture the earlobes really tightly to avoid a "pixie ear" deformity.

My Ear is Detaching After Facelift is This Common?

Answers (5)