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  • Split earlobe repair: Restoring aesthetics and functionality

Split earlobe repair: Restoring aesthetics and functionality

Ms Shweta Aggarwal
Written in association with: Ms Shweta Aggarwal Plastic Surgeon in Central London
5.0 |

43 reviews

Sources: Top Doctors GB
Published: 27/06/2025 Edited by: Karolyn Judge on 27/06/2025

Split earlobes are a common concern, often caused by heavy earrings, accidental trauma, or prolonged wearing of gauges. Whether due to injury or stretching, a torn earlobe can be both an aesthetic and functional issue. Fortunately, split earlobe repair is a straightforward, in-office surgical procedure that restores the natural contour of the earlobe with minimal downtime.REso



Causes of split earlobes

 

The most common causes of earlobe tears include:


  • Trauma: Sudden pulling or snagging of earrings can result in a complete or partial tear.
  • Prolonged wear of heavy earrings: Over time, heavy jewellery can elongate and weaken the earlobe tissue, eventually causing a split.
  • Gauging or stretching: Individuals who have stretched their earlobes may experience thinning of the tissue, leading to tears or difficulty returning to their original shape.
  • Ageing and skin elasticity: As we age, the skin loses collagen and elasticity, making the earlobes more susceptible to tears.

 

 

The split earlobe repair procedure

 

Earlobe repair is a minor surgical procedure performed under local anaesthesia. The steps typically include:


1.      Cleansing and numbing: The area is thoroughly cleansed, and a local anaesthetic is injected to ensure a painless procedure.

2.      Trimming of scar tissue: The edges of the split are refreshed to promote proper healing.

3.      Precise suturing: The earlobe is carefully sutured to restore its natural shape, ensuring symmetry and a smooth contour.

 

 

Recovery and aftercare

 

  • Sutures are typically removed within 7-10 days.
  • Re-piercing can usually be done after 6-8 weeks, in a different location to prevent re-tearing.
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