Reduce Size of Earlobes
Various factors such as genetics, trauma or the natural aging process can all contribute to earlobes which are stretched and wrinkly which can make them appear to be enlarged and misshaped. Fortunately, there are solutions for improve aesthetic concerns with your earlobes.
The shape and size of the lower portion of your ears, which includes your earlobes, plays a big part in the overall appearance of your ear. According to a recent study which included 547 participants and clinical application, men and women over 20 years old have earlobes which on average are 1.97 cm to 2.01 cm long. The left earlobe is typically shorter than the right, which means the ears are not perfectly symmetrical. Normal earlobes are relatively flat and slightly plump. All earlobes are different, however and may not share these common characteristics.
Some patients struggle with earlobes which are elongated, misshapen or stretched. It is possible for one or both earlobes to have the following appearance:
- Abnormal shape from a congenital cleft earlobe deformity
- Longer than normal or stretched – occurs from wearing heavy earrings or from aging
- Laceration or tearing – this typically happens from wearing earrings which are so heavy that the lower edge of the lobe splits into two pieces
- Severe asymmetry from trauma or inherited
- Stretched with a big hole – this is often caused by body piercing and the use of gauges or studs
- Thick earlobe which sticks out from the rest of the ear
While the above issues are not necessarily harmful to your physical health, they can impact your appearance and can damage your self-confidence.
Earlobe Reshaping and Reduction Surgery - Loboplasty
The process of safely reshaping and resizing your earlobes can be done through loboplasty. Loboplasty can be performed on both children and adults who want to change the appearance of their earlobes. It is common for adults to undergo the surgery for ptosis or sagging, which is often due to the normal aging process.
For patients who need a relatively simple correction, the procedure should only take about 15 to 45 minutes. If more extensive correction is required, it may take an hour or more. For cases where the cartilage is affected, the procedure will take longer.
Earlobe repair surgery is typically completed under local anesthesia. Pediatric patients may require a general anesthesia.
A simple tear or large hole can easily be corrected through the use of sutures. For enlarged earlobes, an incision is placed which allows for the removal of the excess tissue. Once complete, the incision is closed and dressed to aid in the healing process.
In cases where the earlobe needs to be reconstructed, the tissue may be taken from another area and used to rebuild the earlobe.
Recovery
Bandages, dressings and sutures will be removed within a few days or up to a week
Most patients experience minimal discomfort and minor swelling
Rigorous physical activity should be avoided for a few weeks; be sure to consult with your doctor before resuming routine physical activities
Earlobe reshaping and reduction surgery is a minimally invasive procedure which does not involve a long or painful recovery. Because the swelling and discomfort is relatively minor, most patients can see their results immediately following surgery. Most people are able to return to daily activities within a day or two. Use caution and avoid applying pressure or rubbing the earlobes for a few weeks while they are healing. The earlobes can usually be re-pierced in about two months, once they are fully healed.