Do you have to be put to sleep for a Ear Lobe Repair?

You can be awake for this procedure. Earlobe repair is a very common procedure. Frequently, we have patients who will have the procedure done the same day as the consultation. Typically, the cost is between $450-850 per earlobe, depending on the severity and the length of the procedure. The length of time the ears have been gauged should have no effect on the procedure. As long as the tissue is no longer irritated or inflamed, there is no reason not to give it a try. Gauged ears are sometimes more difficult than some other earlobe repairs since the tissue is so over stretched, but we are still able to create a natural looking earlobe. You can get your ear re pierced about 6 weeks after and should be included in the pricing.

Earlobe repair is a common procedure in our plastic surgery office. I employ a technique that involves removing the excess scar tissue and reapproximating the tissue planes in multiple layers to recontour the earlobe after gauges, torn earlobes, or stretched out earlobes. Sometimes, the same procedure is used to restore contour to a pixie ear after facelift surgery or facial surgery. Gauge correction is a popular treatment. Insurance typically does not cover the procedure in California, but it all depends on your insurance policy. Costs are typically between six hundred dollars and one thousand dollars depending on the complexity of the repair. Pixie ear repair involves correction of the facelift flap and is a more complex procedure that requires anesthesia. Aftercare for earlobe repair involves proper wound care, Plato’s Scar Serum at least twice daily, with repiercing of the earlobe if requested, in 6 weeks. It is best to have a plastic surgeon perform the procedure and help with scars in the post-procedure period. Plato’s Scar Serum, wound care, and Neosporin are used.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian

Ear Lobe surgery cost varies significantly for a number of good reasons: Prices vary greatly because the surgery itself encompasses a wide range of techniques that can be performed to different extents. My recommendation is to first find the most qualified surgeons where you want the surgery performed that are board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery or Facial Plastic Surgeon you trust, then compare prices between them. See the below link on suggestions on how to find the most qualified plastic surgeon for your procedure. General Factors that influence the price of plastic surgery include:1. Location - Most procedures will be performed in a doctor’s office where costs can be contained. If not will it be performed in a hospital or an independent out- patient facility? Geographical location also has a significant influence. RealSelf has average charges for most areas of the USA.2. Type of Anesthesia – local anesthesia is typical and less costly. If IV sedation or General Anesthesia is used: Will a board certified anesthesiologist, nurse anesthetist, or an RN be used? 3. Experience and training of your surgeon. The best and longest trained is most often a plastic surgeon board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery 4. Length and Complexity of Surgery - how difficult will your surgery be and how long it will take, etc. #earlobesurgery#earloberepair#earloberepaircost

Ear lobe repair can be comfortably and safely performed under local anesthesia.  Once the repair is performed, sutures will remain in place for about a week and discomfort is typically mild and controlled with over the counter pain medications.  

Hi! Thank you for your question.I am Dr. Speron, a proud member of both the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS). I am also certified with the American Board of Plastic Surgery.Earlobe repairs are typically in office procedures, and are done under local anesthesia. I recommend that you schedule a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon for more information.Below are some links for additional information and before and after pictures.If you have any further questions, please feel free to call us at 847.696.9900.Best of luck and have a great day!Regards,Dr. Speron

Earlobe repair is performed under local anesthesia in the office setting.  General anesthesia is uncommonly used.  After the procedure, pain is minimal, and sutures are removed 1 week later. Meet with a board certified plastic surgeon to find out more!

Almost all ear lobe repairs in adults can be done with only local anesthesia.  There is no need to undergo general anesthesia for this procedure.  

It would be rare to perform an earlobe repair under general anesthesia. Typically, local anesthesia without any sedation is totally adequate. You feel some stinging/ burning for the first minute while the local anesthetic is injected and then you should not feel any discomfort during the procedure. I hope this information is helpful.Stephen Weber MD, FACSDenver Facial Plastic Surgeon

Yes, because it is in fact a surgery, you will
need to be placed under anesthesia to ease discomfort and to manage pain during
a torn earlobe repair. The procedure is most often performed alongside the
administration of local anesthesia to numb sensation in the area. Rest assured,
however, that local anesthesia is the mildest for of anesthetic and that you
will remain awake and conscious throughout the entire procedure. 

Earlobe repair is a common office-based minor procedure that is performed under local anesthetic. Once the local has been injected with a fine gauge needle (which stings for a brief period of time), the earlobe becomes insensate. You are awake for the procedure and able to drive immediately afterwards. The freezing wears off within a few hours of the procedure and any discomfort may be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
Best, Stephanie Power MD, FRCSC