Industrial piercing gone wrong(cartilage left deformed) - Can it be fixed?

Question

so i got a industrial bar piercing on my right ear about 2 years ago. it got really infected and i ended up with cauliflower ear. then i drained the pus. You can see the difference of my ears in the photos. Can someone give me an estimate of how much it would cost to make my right ear normal again? i'm only just about to turn 18 so i don't really have that much money.. but i'm willing to work all summer for it.

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

Donn R. Chatham, MD · Answer

When there is a significant injury to the outer ear (auricle), it may involve both the overlying skin and the underlying cartilage. Scar tissue cannot really be removed totally. The goal of surgical reconstruction is to reposition and repair the injured tissues to hopefully heal in a good way and get the most 'normal' looking ear that calls minimal attention to itself later. This varies from injury to injury (for example a burn injury will differ from a laceration which differs from an avulsion <missing tissue>-so each ear will be unique. Both skill and artistry are required from the surgeon.

Robert Mounsey, MD · Answer

It is best to see a surgeon who can evaluate the tissue damage and propose a plan to repair the ear.  Only after a clinical exam can a reasonable estimate of the cost be given.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

I am sorry to hear about the complication you experienced after ear piercing. Reconstruction of the involved ear will not necessarily be simple; in personal evaluation (including careful examination) will be necessary to determine the best course of action. You will need to be patient, select your plastic surgeon carefully, and achieve  realistic expectations (for improvement, not perfect symmetry) prior to proceeding. Best wishes.

Stephen Weber MD, FACS · Answer

This likely can be improved. It is possible that the right ear will never look the way it did before the procedure, however. This is a complex problem and would likely require removing some of the cartilage/ scar tissue and reshaping the remainder. Seek an in person consultation for further information. I hope this information is helpful for you.Stephen Weber MD, FACSDenver Facial Plastic Surgeon

Samir Shureih, MD · Answer

Piercing the cartilage can lead to infection. Infection can deform or lose the cartilage.You seem to have a complex problem and will need to assess the cartilage situation and the scar. May require incision and cartilage graft

Robert L. Kraft, MD, FACS · Answer

This is a complex problem and I would need to see you in consultation as the photos only show one side of the ear and the problem has to be evaluated in person,  It can be improved but not made perfect after this type of defect has resulted.

Industrial piercing gone wrong(cartilage left deformed) - Can it be fixed?

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