It is unknown the reason for earlobes, though many speculations exist. They are not made of the same materials as the upper ear. Some earlobes are attached while others are detached based on genetics. The problem with stretching, piercing, or tearing the earlobe is that it does not repair itself. It will stay stretched. To restore its normal shape earlobe repair surgery is necessary.

Some people have a reaction to the nickel in the earrings they wear. The body will respond with inflammation causing damage to the earlobe. In most cases it is treatable, but some cases can become severe enough to need surgical earlobe repair.

There is a genetic component that causes excessive scar tissue, known as a keloid scar. At the sight of any dermal damage, the skin can attempt to heal itself with an aggressive development of scar tissue. Some can become quite large and continue growing. Surgical intervention is needed to repair such anomalies. A plastic surgeon with scar revision experience can reduce them to normal and monitor the healing process to not trigger the aggressive healing again.

Tearing the earlobe also requires surgical earlobe repair. Earlobes can be torn when the stretch occurs too quickly, or the skin does not have enough elasticity to expand past a certain point. Sometimes the earrings are too heavy for the earlobe. The earring can be snagged on clothing. They can also be pulled quickly through the earlobe by a curious toddler or an angry adult.

Earlobe repair surgery is a reconstructive surgical procedure that should be performed by a certified plastic surgeon. There is a concentration of nerve endings in the earlobe and a rich supply of blood. To safely perform any surgery, it is imperative that the surgeon is competent and certified to handle any issues that may arise during surgery.

To learn more about earlobe repair, visit us at Smith Facial Plastics, located in Gahanna, Ohio. Contact our office today to book an appointment and get started!