Ear & Earlobe Reconstruction (Bifid and Gauged Earlobes)
Many factors can cause an unsightly appearance of the ear and earlobe such as aging, dog-bite, heavy earrings, and gauged earrings. When this happens, patients feel like their ears become the primary when meeting other people. Furthermore, institutions such as the military may require some people to have their earlobes repaired prior to entering service.
How Long Does Ear or Earlobe Repair Procedure Take?
The procedure takes approximately 30 to 90 minutes depending on the complexity of the repair. For example, a repair of a bifid (torn) earlobe may be performed in the office under local anesthetic, whereas, a complex reconstruction of the ear due to cancer may take 90 minutes and is optimally performed in the operating room.
How Much Discomfort Is There During the Procedure?
Many times, these procedures may be done in the office using topical and/or local anesthesia. Some swelling and redness is normal, and typically disappears within a matter of days.
What Is the Post Op Care?
It is important to keep the incision site dry for 48 hours after the procedure. Depending on the size of the repair, postoperative compression may be advised for a short time. Typically, simple wound care may be done by the patient. Typically, glasses may be worn post-operatively, and additional padding may be recommended as indicated. Sutures are typically removed 5 to 7 days after the procedure. Then, it is important to avoid excessive sun exposure for a least one year to avoid hyperpigmentation.
Can I Pierce My Ear Again After Reconstruction?
The answer is yes. Depending on the procedure, we ask that our patients avoid wearing earrings for 6-12 weeks to allow for optimal healing. We will discuss the best method in which to re-pierce the ear and the timing in which do so. It is important to realize that there will be normal scar tissue as a result of the defect and its repair; for this reason, many patients ask us to perform the re-piercing.
For more information on Ear and Earlobe Reconstruction (Bifid and Gauged Earlobes), or to schedule a consultation, call Peak Rejuvenation at (970) 259-5990 or Request a Consultation.