Earlobes might not be the first feature that comes to mind when considering enhancements to your appearance, yet it's surprisingly common for individuals to pursue procedures aimed at correcting them. Many of these individuals seek solutions to diminish sagging earlobes resulting from aging, while others look to earlobe repair to reverse damage inflicted by gauges.
Whatever the reason, Visage Facial Plastic Surgery in Milwaukee, Wisconsin offers solutions to a wide range of ear and earlobe concerns.
What are the different types of earlobe procedures?
Earlobe Reduction:
As we age, it is typical for the earlobe to stretch, giving the ear the appearance of being larger. While ears do not actually "grow" over time, they may appear so due to the increased laxity and sagging of the earlobe. The earlobe reduction procedure takes away excess tissue from the earlobe, resulting in a more proportionate size and youthful look. It is an excellent procedure to pair with a facelift for a well-rounded more youthful look.
Gauge Earlobe Repair
In those who have worn gauge earrings, the earlobes can become stretched as a result of the earring's weight. This stretching is typically permanent and does not revert to its original size even after the removal of the gauge earrings. The earlobe reduction procedure effectively eliminates excess tissue from the earlobe while also sculpting it to achieve a more normal appearance.
How is the earlobe surgery performed?
Earlobe repair or reduction surgery is almost always performed under local anesthesia. To begin the procedure, Dr. Patel makes incisions on the front and back of the earlobes. If the goal is earlobe reduction, he removes the wedge of tissue where the earlobe meets the face. This will camouflage the incision while making the ears look more proportionate. When repairing holes from gauges, he removes any excess skin and restructures the earlobe in a rounded fashion.
How long does earlobe surgery take?
Earlobe reductions are fairly quick, typically taking less than an hour to complete. This allows patients to often return to their daily activities shortly after the treatment. Complicated gauge repairs may take 1 to 2 hours.
How long does earlobe surgery recovery take?
Earlobe reductions are relatively fast and easy to recover from compared to other plastic surgery procedures. The downtime is only 1-2 days. After surgery, the site is dressed with ointment alone to promote healing and prevent infection. The ears may be a bit sensitive during the first few days post-op.
Earlobe Surgery Patient Before & After Photos
