Is it true that if you gauge your ear above a 1/2 inch that it won't shrink back to normal size? (photo)

Question

I have 1/2 inch gauges. I read an article several months ago from a surgeon that states as long as your gauges are a 1/2 inch or smaller, the ear lobe will shrink back to a normal size. I will be getting a career in conservation biology at one point, and I need to know if my earlobe will ever be normal enough for that job.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our office specializes in earlobe gauge repair in Los Angeles. Most earlobe gauges will require repair to close the piercing hole, whether or not they have retracted. This will allow you to wear normal earrings later. Raffy Karamanoukian MD FACSLos Angeles

Joshua Cooper, MD, FACS · Answer

I can tell you that if you are looking for a career in conservation biology in Seattle, your earlobes are "normal enough" currently for that position!  But, the "norms" in Seattle may be a little different than in other regions of the country!Your 1/2 inch gauged ear lobes will shrink down some after you've finished wearing your ear lobe jewelry.  After 6 weeks, the shrinkage will be complete, and you'll see what you are left with.  Your gauged piercings will still be larger than a regular earring post, and you may wish to have your ear lobes piercings closed at that point. I'd recommend meeting with a board certified plastic surgeon to find out what the procedure entails.  It's straightforward, not very painful, and can be performed using a local anesthetic in the office setting.

James Nachbar, MD · Answer

Sorry, but the short answer is that there is no way to know exactly how much the earlobe hole will shrink once the gauges are removed.  It is possible that they will shrink enough, but also possible that they will not.I have seen many patients who needed correction of earlobe piercings and gauge holes in order to enlist in the military, and in my experience, after surgery, they have been able to enlist.  Of course, there is scarring from that, and the earlobes are never completely normal.Probably the best way to see how much the holes will shrink is to leave your gauges out for three or four months.  Some shrinking even beyond that time period might occur, but you will have a much better idea as to how much shrinking you will get.Good luck!

Gregory J. Vipond, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Although it is true that the holes will tend to shrink in size once the gauges are removed, the amount of shrinking can vary. The larger the gauge size and the longer the gauge has been in place both decrease the amount of shrinking that will happen. Unfortunately, it is very likely that the hole will not completely shrink to the size of a normal piercing. However, repairing a smaller hole is certainly a smaller procedure with a better result than a larger hole. Even though different careers have different amounts of tolerance for appearance, a large gauge piercing can still be detrimental in a competitive field. I commonly repair stretched ear lobe holes for patients who don't want to be judged negatively based on their physical appearance. I certainly would suggest at least talking to a qualified surgeon for his/her opinion.

Stephen Weber MD, FACS · Answer

There is no rule regarding how large you can stretch an earlobe. The less you stretch your lobe the more likely it will return to its normal size. However, the piercing will never completely close. In the vast majority of cases a stretched earlobe will never return to its normal size, shape and contour without a surgical revision. I hope this information is helpful for you.Stephen Weber MD, FACSDenver Facial Plastic Surgeon

Michael M. Kim, MD · Answer

Hello Alyssa,It can be different in different patients, but 1/2" is pushing the envelope with regards to the hole getting to an unnoticeable level after gauge jewelry removal. I have repaired patient's ears at the 00 size (10.4mm) which is smaller that 1/2" (12.7mm). The only real way to tell is to take the jewelry out for an extended period of time to see where you are. You may end up having a pretty deep divot or slit appearance, but at least not a lot of excess hanging skin and the ability to see light through the hole. If at that time you think that your ears' appearance is holding you back professionally, seek repair by a qualified surgeon.Take care,Michael M. Kim, MD

Michael Elam, MD (retired) · Answer

Dear Alyssa, The question you ask is "Will your earlobe ever be normal enough for a job in conservation biology with your current gauges?" I think this just depends on where you attain your job and what their personal employment policies are. As far the possibility of the shrinking back to a normal size this is dependent on each patients personal anatomy and skin laxity etc. Typically, I tend to have to repair these surgically to minimize the size. Congratulations on your studies and good luck in the workplace protecting our environment. Best regards, Michael V. Elam, M.D.

Is it true that if you gauge your ear above a 1/2 inch that it won't shrink back to normal size? (photo)

Answers (7)

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