What is earlobe rejuvenation?
As the earlobe ages it loses collagen and elastin, becoming less dense and more flaccid and taking on a wrinkled, irregular appearance. The preauricular area may also deteriorate, with the appearance of vertical wrinkles that make the ear look even more aged.
Why is earlobe rejuvenation performed?
There are several reasons why someone might choose to undergo earlobe rejuvenation:
Aging: As people age, the skin and tissues in their earlobes can become thinner and lose elasticity. This can lead to sagging or wrinkling of the earlobes, which some individuals find aesthetically displeasing.
Torn or stretched earlobes: People who have worn heavy earrings or gauges may experience stretching or tearing of the earlobe tissue. Earlobe rejuvenation can repair these issues, restoring a more natural appearance.
Earring hole repair: Over time, the holes made for earrings can become elongated or distorted. Earlobe rejuvenation can involve repairing these holes, allowing individuals to wear earrings again or change the position of the piercing.
Cosmetic enhancement: Some individuals seek earlobe rejuvenation as a way to enhance their overall facial appearance. This might include reshaping the earlobe to make it more symmetrical or proportionate to the rest of the face.
Psychological benefits: For some people, feeling self-conscious about the appearance of their earlobes can affect their self-esteem. Earlobe rejuvenation can provide psychological benefits by helping individuals feel more confident about their appearance.
Reconstruction after trauma: In cases where the earlobe has been injured or traumatised due to accidents or surgical procedures, earlobe rejuvenation can be used to reconstruct the damaged tissue.
What does it involve?
Earlobe rejuvenation is performed using two techniques:
- Minor surgery to close the lobe (if it is torn). A local anaesthetic is used in this case. After a month, the hole can be reopened and an earring inserted.
- Non-surgical procedure, injecting hyaluronic acid or calcium hydroxyapatite fillers using a fine needle. This will correct the loss of density. Hyaluronic acid is found in the body in the cartilage, joints and skin; it supports the tissues, providing firmness and volume.
Both techniques are normally performed in a single session and results usually last a year.
How to prepare for it
This procedure is performed under topical, local anaesthetic. No special preparation is necessary, although the physician will need to take a look at your medical history.
Post-procedure care
You can carry out your normal activities the day after the procedure, though you must not wear earrings or get your ears wet for a couple of days afterwards.
If you have had surgery to close the earlobe, it must remain closed for at least a month.