Many people suffer from torn earlobes because of years of wearing heavy earrings, a child pulling on their earring or simply catching earrings on something. Irrespective of whether the earlobe is torn partially or totally, it can be corrected.
The surgery is relatively straightforward and is conducted under local anaesthetic. The old ear hole iscompletely cut out to create 2 raw surfaces that can be stitched together in 3 layers. The scar maybe a straight line or a zig-zag line to reduce the risk of notching of the ear lobe edge.
The stitches are dissolvable in the back of the ear and non-dissolvable in the front. The whole procedure takes approximately 20 mins for each side.
You will be provided with an antiseptic ointment to apply to the scar twice a day for 10 days.
You will have minimal pain for a day or 2. Paracetamol can be taken if necessary. Follow the following post operative instructions to avoid excessive bruising or swelling. You can return to normal activities the next day, avoiding anything strenuous for 2 weeks. The scar will remain red for a few months but generally settles vey well. The ear can be re-pierced 3 months after surgery.
Follow up appointment is at 10 days for removal of stitches. A further follow-up at 3 months to review the scar.
�� Local anaesthetic sensitivity
�� Swelling and bruising
�� Bleeding
�� infection
�� Wound breakdown
�� Excessive scarring (hypertrophy or keloid)
�� Notching of ear lobe edge
�� Numbness
�� Asymmetry
Average length of stay �� daycase
Instructions on discharge
�� The local anaesthetic will wear off in approximately one hour after the procedure.
�� Paracetamol can be taken once the local anaesthetic has worn off.
�� If the surgery was to the head sleep with the head slightly elevated on a few pillows for the first week and avoid bending with the head down.
Dressing clinic
�� Usually about a week after the surgery when the wound is checked.
�� If non-dissolvable sutures have been used then they will normally be removed after about a week.
Activities
�� No restrictions but avoid strenuous activities for the first week
Wound Care
�� The wound can be very gently washed and then gently pat dry.
If you experience any problems or have any queries following your surgery please do not hesitate to contact the ward
VERSION 2 �� 21/12/12
