Tramatically Split Earlobes Can Be Repaired

We tend not to think about our earlobes until they become a problem. Split earlobes are not uncommon since most woman have their ears pierced at some point in their life. With fashion trends leading to longer and heavier earrings the inevitable result is an elongated lobe, an elongated hole or a completely split earlobe. Time, gravity, weight and trauma all combine to cause this to happen.   It's simply a matter of physics. The earlobe and the piercing hole can only support so much weight. The most frequently affected side is on the left   since this is usually the side where we hold the phone against our ear. Children sometimes grab or pull on flashy earrings or they get caught in clothing. Many times an elongated hole does not support the back of the earring and it can pull through. You do not want to lose those expensive diamond earrings.   

There are many techniques for repair of a split or elongated earlobe hole. The first stage involves the freshening up of the torn edges. An incision is made around the edges creating a V-shaped pattern. From this point there are several patterns that can be done all designed to prevent complications of scar contracture. The object is to create an aesthetically pleasing ear shape and contour. These patterns usually involve either a zigzag or a notch and groove pattern. 

Preparation

Before undergoing split earlobe surgery a patient should have a clear understanding of what can and cannot be accomplished. A detailed understanding of the procedure and expectations are vital for a satisfactory outcome. A candidate for split earlobe repair should understand the risks and complications of the procedure. This will be explained  by their plastic surgeon prior to the operation. It is advisable to stop taking any aspirin or aspirin containing products for two weeks prior to the surgery. Be certain to advise your plastic surgeon about any medications, prescription or non-prescription, that you currently take.   In preparation for the procedure it is also highly recommended that patients avoid smoking, to provide a quicker recovery and more reliable healing. 
  
The Operation

A split earlobe repair is typically performed under local anesthesia. Most patients tolerate the procedure well and have minimal discomfort. There are several steps to the operation and the procedure usually takes thirty to forty five minutes per side.  
  
After The Operation

Following the operation patients should wash the ear three times per day and  apply a dressing of antibiotic ointment in order to decrease the risk of an infection. This will also aid the healing process. After surgery patients can shampoo their hair; however you should avoid using a hair dryer for the first 2 days.     
  
Recovering from Split Earlobe Surgery 

• Recovery from split earlobe repair is usually easy and uncomplicated.  
• All that is required, until the sutures are removed is a daily cleansing.
• Following surgery patients may shampoo their hair after 24 hours, by this time the incision is sealed but not healed. The ear, since it has a good blood supply, rarely gets infected. 
• Patients should avoid using a hair dryer for the first 2 days.
• There may be some drainage from the incision during the first 24 hours. This is not unusual and will stop with a little light pressure.
• The sutures are typically removed between day 6 and 7.
• Light massage of the ear is suggested for the first 3 - 5 weeks after surgery
• The earlobe is usually repierced 5 to 6 weeks after the repair
• In the future avoid excessively long or heavy earrings. Remember time, weight and gravity is not on your side. .

Split earlobe repair is a highly successful procedure and most patients are happy to be rid of this unsightly earlobe cleft and happy to be able to wear their favorite earrings again.  A key to success is to be confident about your plastic surgeon's experience in repairing these types of deformities. With careful research and education you can be assured of a successful outcome that can be enjoyed for years to come.