Stretched, torn or “gauged” earlobes can easily be fixed with a short outpatient procedure known as earlobe repair. Dr. Stephen Weber, a double board certified Facial Plastic Surgeon, regularly performs earlobe repairs at his Denver, CO office.
What type of anesthesia is used? How is it administered?
Dr. Weber uses a local anesthetic to perform earlobe repair. Dr. Weber carefully administers the anesthetic via injection. Patients rarely experience pain or discomfort from the tiny needle prick that is made. After the anesthetic is administered, the patient’s ear becomes numb. It usually takes about two minutes for this to occur.
Is there a risk of developing an ear infection?
There are risks associated with all surgical procedures. Dr. Weber reduces risks by using sterile techniques and equipment. He also gives his patients specific information regarding how to take care of their incision after surgery. The chance of developing an ear infection after Dr. Weber performs your procedure is very small.
Will I have a noticeable scar after my surgery?
All surgical incisions form scars. Because Dr. Weber uses special sutures and delicate suturing techniques, the scars that form from his surgical incisions are very tiny and not noticeable. Patients who undergo an earlobe repair will notice their incision after their procedure; however, its visibility will quickly fade and blend with the natural texture and coloring of the skin.
Will my ear be wrapped in a dressing?
Your ear will not be wrapped in a dressing after your surgery. You can go out in public. People will only be able to see your incision if they look closely at your ear.
Is an earlobe repair the same thing as an otoplasty?
Earlobe repair and otoplasty are two different surgical procedures. Earlobe repair is used to correct stretched, torn or gauged earlobes. Otoplasty is used to correct overly large, protruding or asymmetric ears. If you are interested in an otoplasty procedure, you can learn more about it by visiting Dr. Weber’s otoplasty page or contacting his office.
Will my hearing be affected by my procedure?
Absolutely not. Repairing your earlobe will have no effect on your hearing. Your hearing will remain the same after your procedure.
Is there anything I can do after my procedure to maximize my results?
Dr. Weber will give you very specific instructions regarding how to clean and take care of your incision. If you follow Dr. Weber’s instructions, your results will be maximized. You will look and feel great after your incision heals perfectly.
Will I really be able to pierce my ears after my procedure?
You will be able to pierce your ears six weeks after your procedure. Your ears should only be pierced by Dr. Weber or one of his staff members. Dr. Weber will discuss this process in detail with you at your initial consultation.
Can I enlist in the military after my procedure?
The military has restricted men with gauged earlobes from enlisting. Men who undergo an earlobe repair with Dr. Weber and are otherwise good candidates may enlist and pursue a career in the military. Dr. Weber has successfully performed earlobe repairs on countless men who are now enlisted in the military.
Can I see before and after photos of some of Dr. Weber’s patients who have undergone earlobe repair?
Dr. Weber would be happy to show you before and after pictures of his patients. He will go into great detail when explaining the similarities and differences between your earlobes and the patients in the pictures. You will know exactly what type of results to expect and will feel confident going into your surgery.
What are some of the signs that I need an earlobe repair?
The following are the most common signs that you could benefit from earlobe repair:
- You have stretched piercings and droopy earlobes
- Your earrings constantly fall out or point to the floor
- Your earrings catch on your clothing or pillow
- If you have a notch that heals in your torn earlobe, it cannot be repaired without surgery.
How do I arrange my initial consultation with Dr. Weber?
Your initial consultation with Dr. Weber can be easily arranged by contacting his office in Denver, CO, or by visiting his contact page. Dr. Weber looks forward to hearing from you and providing you with a solution to your earlobe problem.
