Am I a candidate for an earlobe reduction? (Photo)

Question

I have prominent ears, but they don’t bother me as much as my earlobes do. They’re kinda fat and makes my ear curl like a letter C. Is an earlobe reduction possible in my case?

Joe Gryskiewicz, MD, FACS · Answer

If you are bothered by drooping, overly large, or pendulous earlobes, earlobe reduction surgery can be an excellent solution to restore a more balanced and proportional look. The soft tissue of the lower ears is prone to stretching over time, and factors like sun damage and large earrings can further elongate the earlobes. In order to improve large earlobes and improve the ear shape, I  utilize the “wedge” technique, which removes a small triangle of tissue from the lower ear. The earlobe is then brought back together with sutures, providing a virtually immediate improvement. The entire treatment is performed in-office under local anesthesia and takes approximately one hour. Patients can expect little (if any) recovery, and normal activities are resumed immediately. Exercise and other strenuous activities should be avoided for at least two days due to potential swelling.

Hooman Khorasani, MD · Answer

Yes, earlobe reduction is a possible procedure that can address concerns about the size and shape of your earlobes. If you feel that your earlobes are too large or have an undesirable shape, it's worth considering earlobe reduction surgery.
During earlobe reduction surgery, excess tissue from the earlobes is carefully removed and reshaped to achieve a more aesthetically pleasing and natural appearance. The specific technique used may vary depending on the individual's needs and goals. The procedure is typically performed as an outpatient surgery with minimal downtime.

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding being a candidate for an earlobe reduction and for including photos. They are extremely helpful!

From the photos you shared, it does appear that you are a candidate for an earlobe reduction.

To be sure what will work for you, 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 an earlobe reduction.

I hope this helps!

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

George Volpe, MD · Answer

The ear lobe is them bottom part of the ear, that is the area that is typically pierced. Suboptimal aesthetic contours can often be changed. Volume can be added, the length of the ear lobe can be shortened and problems with piercing holes fixed. These are relatively simple procedures that can be performed in most plastic surgeons office is under local anesthesia. The photos supplied show the upper part of the ear. There are relatively simple procedures that can change the shape of the superior helix although this is less common and although scarring tends to be well hidden, may cause some distortion of the typical contour of the ear. Often years with excessive vertical height can be partially corrected by procedures on the upper part of the ear. Your plastic surgeon after careful evaluation regarding your concerns and possible solutions will discuss with you resulting scarring and possible loss of certain contours in the upper part of the ear.

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

You may be a candidate for earlobe reduction surgery to reduce their prominence and modify their shape.

Brian M. Harmych, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and photographs. From the photos, it appears you may have a slight underdevelopment of the entire ear. It is subtle, but the upper pole (superior pole) of your ear and the lower pole of the ear is slightly cupped, causing the earlobe to appear slightly larger. The under-development may be too mild to require a full otoplasty. I have done earlobe reduction procedures to this issue. Although, the approach is modified from the usual earlobe reduction procedure, in which a small section of the earlobe would be removed to make the earlobe smaller. In cases similar to yours, a different approach is used, in which a small ellipse of skin could be removed from behind the earlobe. This would move the position of the earlobe closer to the neck and scalp, causing the earlobe to "appear" smaller, without changing the vertical proportions of your ear.

David M. Kowalczyk, MD, MBA, FACS · Answer

Hi there! An earlobe reduction is possible in your case. This involves incisions to remove typically the lower aspect of the earlobe. A certain, feasible amount is marked and then removed. The incisions heal well if done correctly. It's important not to take too much as it can permanently deform the shape of the ear. I would imagine that the curl would improve with reduction as well. Best of luck!