Split Ear Lobe Reconstruction
We tend not to think about our earlobes until they present us with a problem. Fashion trends and ethnic diversities leaning towards heavier, longer and wider earrings can result in elongation of the pierced hole and elongation of the ear lobe, which may progress to a complete split resulting in a bifid lobe. Unless traumatic, heavy earring has a cheese wiring effect on the earlobe owing to time and gravity, thus allowing the torn edges to epithelialise and heal.
This is a very common problem mainly affecting although increasingly in men too. Repair of a split earlobe is a relatively simple, uncomplicated and effective procedure, which is usually carried out under local anaesthetic.
Preparing for the surgery:
It is imperative that when considering this type of surgery, the patient should have a clear understanding of what can and cannot be accomplished. In preparation for the procedure, it is advisable to stop smoking, as this interferes with the healing process, thus allowing for a quicker recovery. Be certain to advise your surgeon of any medications you may be taking, as some may need to be temporarily stopped before the procedure.
What does the procedure involve?
Repair of split earlobes typically lasts around 30 minutes per lobe and is usually carried out under local anesthetic. This procedure is usually very well tolerated and the discomfort experienced is minimal. The torn skin edges are excised in a V-shaped pattern and the fresh edges are then stitched together with sutures that would need to remain in place for about a week. No dressing is needed other than an antibiotic ointment.
Post-operative treatment:
Following the procedure, patients should apply the antibiotic ointment three times a day after washing their hands. It is advisable to keep the area clan and dry and the use of a hair dryer should be avoided in the first few days. The first follow up appointment with the surgeon should take place after about a week, when the sutures will be removed. Heavy exercise for the first few days is not advisable and it is recommended to sleep with three or four pillows for the first couple of nights to minimise swelling.
The final result is usually a thin neat linear scar which generally fades away with time. Two weeks after the removal of sutures it is advisable to massage the scar with vitamin E cream, or manuka honey.
When can I pierce my ears again?
Minimum time before ear piercing is six weeks. However, it is advisable to allow between three to six months after surgery and to start with small stud earrings. Repaired earlobes are weaker than uninjured earlobes and if heavy earrings are used again the problem may recur.
What is the down time associated with this procedure?
Most people can go back to work straight after the procedure unless they work in a dusty or dirty environment or their job involves strenuous exercise. For those in cosmetically sensitive jobs, it is worth noting that the stitches will be visible for the first week.
PRICES START FROM JUST £300
Our Consultants
Dr. Salinda Johnson (MD., FSCD)
Dr. Salinda Johnson, is a well-respected and highly experienced Senior Aesthetic Doctor. She has also been a lecturer and trainer in Aesthetic medicine for many years. She regularly trains doctors, nurses and other medical practitioners on a range of medical aesthetic procedures with an emphasis on best practice and optimum treatment results. In addition, she writes articles for Aesthetic industry magazines and publications...
Dr. Johnson obtained her Medical degree (MD) from renowned Khon Kaen University, Thailand, in 1998. After attaining her Medical degree, she became passionate in Aesthetic medicine, so she had completed a Fellowship program in Cosmetic Dermatology at Supannahong Skin Institute, Thailand, in 2000. This confirms her expertise in all aspects of Aesthetic Dermatology. Since then, Dr. Johnson has been working in the leading Thailand and UK cosmetic companies and has regularly trained and updated in Cosmetic Medicine by attending number of courses, workshops, conferences and seminars in Thailand, UK, South Korea, etc.
Dr Johnson specialises in injectable treatments such as botulinum toxin and fillers, these treatments are her passion and she has over 10 years experience in this field. She is experienced in laser lipolysis and has particular interests in the Obagi and other skin peel treatments. She also carries out mole or skin tag removal treatments, the scar treatments and the non surgical rhinoplasty.
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Why not visit us for a complimentary consultation with one of our Advisors
to discuss all your medical and cosmetic needs?
You can talk today in confidence:
Feel free to call us on +44 (0)203 581 3391 or email us directly at:
info@thelondoncosmeticclinic.co.uk
Prior to booking a consultation with the surgeon feel free to speak to our advisors in confidence. You can ask for any help or advice that you might need. We are more than happy to guide you to the procedure or surgeon that would suit you best.
Our advisors will thoroughly explain each stage of your procedure, from your consultation with the surgeon through to the post-operative care, follow-up appointment and your individual recovery period. We can discuss in detail all aspects of the procedure, answering any questions or concerns that you may have along the way.
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