Dr Nicholas Lotz (FRACS) Specialist Plastic Surgeon
Dr Nicholas Lotz
MBBS BSc(Med) FRACS
Specialist Plastic Surgeon
Main Rooms
Level 1 357 Military Rd
MOSMAN, NSW 2088
Appointments & Enquiries
info@drnicholaslotz.com.au
Ph: 1300 304 209
Fax: 02 9904 0166
EAR SURGERY

Ear Surgery for Torn or Stretched Ear Lobes

The following information sheet is intended to assist patients undergoing ear lobe reduction surgery for torn or stretched ear lobes with Dr Nicholas Lotz.

 

Overview

Torn or Stretched Ear Lobes

Dr Lotz treats a huge range of ear problems, and one of the most common issues is ear lobes that have either stretched or the ear piercing has torn through. If the ear lobe is excessively large due to age or from the weight of your earrings, it can be reduced by an ear lobe reduction.

Ear piercings can tear due to trauma, wearing excessively heavy earrings, or having an allergy to the metal in the piercing stud. Often the hole is just stretched, which usually just makes the earrings lie on an abnormal angle or sit at different levels, but occasionally an earring can be lost due to the large hole. Sometimes the tear becomes so large that the lobe tears completely through.

Ear Surgery for Torn or Stretched Ear Lobes

Before the
surgery

During your initial consultation, Dr Lotz will spend time with you discussing exactly what your concerns about your ears are. Sometimes patients find it helpful to bring along photographs of their own ears that they have altered to give an idea of the results would ideally like. Whilst there is no guarantee that this will be able to be achieved, it is often helpful to get an idea of how much of a change in the appearance of your ears you would ideally like to achieve.

Dr Lotz will be able to show you photographs of other patients who have undergone ear reduction surgery, so you have an idea what to expect with respect to results, recovery, scars and any possible risks. It is important to note that the ears can only reduced to a certain amount, otherwise the relative proportions of the ear can start to look out of balance. Photographs will be taken of your ears during the consultation.

You will be sent an information pack further explaining the procedure, along with a detailed, personalised quotation which explains all the relevant costs pertaining to the procedure as well and any heath fund or Medicare rebates applicable.

Depending on your age and the type of alterations that your ears require, there may be some coverage by Medicare or your Health Fund for the surgery. An exact quotation for you will be provided for you after your consultation with Dr Lotz.

Ear Surgery for Torn or Stretched Ear Lobes

The surgery

Fixing a torn ear piercing is a fairly straightforward procedure which takes about 30 minutes and can be performed in the rooms under local anaesthetic.

The wound will be covered with small, skin-coloured surgical tapes to conceal the stitches and you will be able to drive home and do all normal activities.

Ear Surgery for Torn or Stretched Ear Lobes

After the surgery

Post-operative care

The stitches are removed a week later, and you will be given advice how to manage the scars. Your ears can be re-pierced again 3 months later once the scar tissue has gained maximum strength. 

Follow-up & Re-Piercing of Ears

Most patients prefer to return to have Dr Lotz re-pierce their ears so that the holes are accurately placed to avoid the previous scar and have the best symmetry. You will need to purchase a set of sterile ear-piercing studs from the chemist to bring to this appointment, and this minor procedure will take 15 minutes.

Risks of torn ear lobe repair

Problems from this surgery are very unusual given how minor it is. But include:

  • Infection
  • Pain
  • Bleeding
  • Poor scarring
  • Re-stretching of the piercing hole if you continue to wear heavy earrings or earrings that irritate you skin
  • Asymmetry between the ear piercings
Ear Surgery for Torn or Stretched Ear Lobes

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the benefit of having my torn ear lobe repaired?

Repairing a torn ear will prevent earrings from falling out from the excessively large hole, and will also ensure that your earrings sit in the same position again.

Can repairing a torn ear-lobe be combined with other procedures?

Surgical repair of torn ear lobes can be combined with other procedures. It is frequently combined with an ear lobe reduction if the lobes are too large or are stretched.

Is there an ideal age for ear reduction surgery?

This surgery can be performed at any age. Ear lobes will tend to increase in size with age and heavy earrings, but some people are born with large ears and have ear reduction surgery in their early 20s.

Can I get my ears re-pierced after getting my torn or stretched ear repaired?

Yes. Most patients prefer to return to have Dr Lotz re-pierce their ears so that the holes are accurately placed to avoid the previous scar and have the best symmetry. You will need to purchase a set of sterile ear-piercing studs from the chemist to bring to this appointment, and this minor procedure will take 15 minutes.

Your ears can be re-pierced again 3 months later once the scar tissue has gained maximum strength. 

Further Questions About Ear Surgery?

If you would like further information or if you wish to make an appointment to discuss ear surgery for torn or stretched ear lobes with Dr Nicholas Lotz, please contact our rooms.

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