The wearing of ear jewelry has been done for thousands of years to enhance one’s appearance. Rings, posts, and other objects have been used for ear ornaments and they are as popular today as they have ever been in history. While various parts of the ear are pierced, the earlobe is the most universal site. Unfortunately the earlobe has no structural support because it contains no cartilage unlike the rest of the ear. As a result, the weight of large ear rings or trauma can pull them through the earlobe, leaving a tear or notch in the otherwise smooth continuous edge of the earlobe. The split earlobe not only causes an obvious cosmetic deformity which is hard to cover but also makes it difficult to continue to wear any ear jewelry.
Repair of the split earlobe is a common procedure that is easily done in the office at a low cost. In some cases, the ear lobe hole is merely enlarged (and almost torn through) but most cases have a complete tear creating an inverted V look. Depending on the earlobe problem, reconstruction can take different forms. In every method used, however, the skin lining the hole or tear is removed creating fresh new skin edges from to rebuild.
There are numerous minor variations to earlobe repairs, all with the intent of leaving the earlobe with a smooth and non-notched outer skin border. Whether it be a straight-line closure, z-plasty, rim w-plasty, or jelly-roll technique, they all can work successfully if done well. Over the years, I have found that the straight-line closure will work in most cases. The fear of a notched earlobe rim has not been borne out in my experience. The key is to do a complete resection of all skin edges of the tear so that a tension-free closure can be done.
After an earlobe repair, there are some small sutures that I will need to remove in a week. There are no dressings or special care that needs to be done after. One can shower and get the ear wet as normal. There is virtually no pain after and only a very mild amount of swelling.
Repair of the torn or split earlobe is a simple plastic surgery procedure that works well. One should not avoid having it done for fear that it is a big involved ordeal….for it is not.
Dr. Barry Eppley
Indianapolis, Indiana