Pixie Ear Revision? (photo)

Pixie ear deformity usually occurs because of excess tension on the incision and possibly excess skin removal.  If you are happy with your facelift result, then having a simple advancement of the earlobe upward with closing of the skin under it is all that is needed.  Recovery may have some swelling and bruising isolated to that area but shouldn't require time off.If you are unhappy with your facelift, then habit it revised a year later and having the pixie ear fixed at the same time would be a better option.  Of course, your recovery would be similar to your precious facelift.

Thank you for your question. The "pixie" ear deformity can be recognized by its "stuck on" or "pulled" appearance, which is caused by the tension involving the facelift cheek and jawline skin flaps at the earlobe attachment point. In many cases, this deformity may be improved in the office using local anesthesia. In more severe cases, a revision facelift may be advisable. If only one ear is affected, then a procedure may be limited to that ear without affecting the other ear. For the in-office procedure, an incision and sutures are placed near the lower portion of the earlobe. This may be concealed with your hairstyle. Scarring is typically minimal. One may return to work the following day. Consult with an experienced facial plastic surgeon to better understand the options available in your particular case.

This can be repaired in the office or operating room depending on what your goals are and what kind of scars you are willing to accept. Some times a simple office procedure as explained by Dr. Hughes is the way to go first. If you are not happy with this result you can always do a more invasive procedure. Good Luck!