Procedure
Techniques that may be implemented include the following:
Simple layered closure
This technique is used immediately after traumatic avulsion and is done by bringing and suturing the raw edges together.
The Z-plasty
This technique is used for weakened tissues where simple layered closure does not provide enough support for wearing earrings in the future. In this type of repair tissues of your earlobe are rearranged to allow redistribution of the scar and healthy tissues in such a way as to provide additional support.
Purdue Flap repair
This technique allows an opening maintained with a heavy string or light stud placement, thereby avoiding the need for re-piercing. This is Dr. Sabry’s preferred method for most cases.
Gauge Repair
The repair of stretched earlobes involves cutting off some of the extra skin, and rotating it to the other side of the split so that the ear lobe looks as natural as possible. The procedure can either be performed in the office or in a minor procedure room.
Recovery
Patients usually tolerate any of these procedures without significant discomfort. After surgery, over the counter pain medication like Tylenol or Advil may be beneficial if you feel slight discomfort at the repair site. The discomfort usually disappears within twenty four hours. A thin layer of antibiotic ointment will be placed over the repair area. You may wash your hair but avoid using a blow dryer until sensation returns to prevent accidental burning of your earlobes. The sutures usually get removed in the office in five to seven days.
If the earlobe was reconstructed using a Purdue flap, you will have a suture in the hole for four weeks, followed by a small stud for next 4-6 weeks. You should avoid heavier jewelry for at least three months. Clip on earrings may be worn starting six weeks after your procedure. All the above time periods may need to be prolonged if you still have sensitivity at the surgical site.
If your repair is performed without a hole, you should wait at least three months before piercing your ear and wearing earrings. You may wear clip on earring starting at about six weeks after procedure.
Earlobe rejuvenation
Our earlobes lose collagen and elastin just like the rest of our skin. They can start to droop and sag. They lose firmness and as a result, jewelry no longer shows properly. Dr. Sabry can safely and effectively restore fullness and firmness to your earlobes by injecting them with a small amount of dermal filler, such as Juvederm or Restylane. The results are instantaneous and since the benefits of the filler are not mitigated by muscle movement, they can last for up to one year.
